Questions to ask: Uterine (endometrial) cancer

Diagnosis

• What type of uterine cancer do I have? Is it endometrial cancer or a sarcoma?
• What grade and stage is my cancer?
• Has my tumor been tested for MMR or MSI?
• What is my molecular group (POLE, MMR deficient, p53 abnormal, or no specific profile)?
• Should I have genetic testing for Lynch syndrome?
• Has my tumor been tested for HER2 and hormone receptors?
• Will a gynecologic oncologist do my surgery?
• Is the goal of treatment to cure the cancer?
• Should my family members be tested or screened?
• Should I get a second opinion?

Before

• Can my surgery be done with small cuts or a robot?
• Will you use sentinel lymph node biopsy?
• Will my ovaries be removed? Will I go into menopause?
• Is there any way to preserve my fertility?
• Will I need radiation or chemotherapy after surgery?
• Could immunotherapy be part of my treatment?
• What are the most common side effects of my treatment?
• How long will recovery take, and when can I go back to work?
• Are there clinical trials I could join?
• Who should I call with problems at night or on weekends?
• What costs should I expect, and who can help with insurance?

During

• How will we know if the treatment is working?
• Which side effects should I call about right away?
• What should I do if I get diarrhea or a rash on immunotherapy?
• How can I manage bowel and bladder changes from radiation?
• What can I do about numbness in my hands and feet?
• How long will I stay on immunotherapy?
• Can I see a dietitian, counselor, or palliative care team?
• How can my caregiver help, and what should they watch for?
• When is my next scan or exam?

After

• How often will I need checkups?
• What signs could mean the cancer has come back?
• Can I take hormone therapy for menopause symptoms?
• What can help with vaginal dryness or sexual changes?
• If I have Lynch syndrome, what other screening do I need?
• What can I do about leg swelling?
• How can diet and exercise help my health now?
• Where can I find support groups?

Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.