Talk Peach Gynaecological Foundation

10/07/2026

We remember, we connect and together look forward.

27/05/2026

Vulval cancer is one of the five gynaecological cancers, with around 90 people diagnosed each year in Aotearoa New Zealand. It is still considered relatively rare, but is more common than va**nal cancer.

Most v***al cancers are squamous cell cancers (they start in the thin, flat cells on the surface of the v***a). Many are linked to high-risk types of HPV, while others are associated with long-term skin conditions of the v***a.

While the risk of v***al cancer increases with age, and it is most often diagnosed after 60, it can affect anyone with a v***a at any age.

Symptoms of v***al cancer – such as persistent itching, a lump, sore or ulcer, pain, tenderness, bleeding, or changes in the skin (colour, thickness, or texture) – are often mistaken for other common conditions like irritation, infections, or skin disorders. This can make them easier to dismiss, which is why being aware of changes in your body is really important – and getting these changes checked out. It’s a good idea to visit our website and note down any symptoms you have before visiting your GP.

Your GP will talk with you about your symptoms, how long they’ve been present, and will usually carry out a physical examination of the v***a and surrounding area – you are allowed to have a support person of your choosing present.

Your doctor may take a refer you to a specialist for further assessment and tests.

Treatment often involves surgery to remove the cancer and a small amount of the healthy tissue surrounding it. If the v***al cancer is in the advanced stages, surgery may require removing the entire v***a. The earlier v***al cancer is diagnosed, the less likely such an extensive surgery is required.

It’s so important to know the signs and get an early diagnosis, if you notice changes to your body that persist for 2 weeks get things checked out.

Visit talkpeach.org.nz to learn more about the five gynaecological cancers, including their risk factors, signs and symptoms, stages and treatment options.

Link in bio for website.

25/05/2026

The most common symptom of uterine cancer is abnormal va**nal bleeding. About 90% of people diagnosed experience this symptom.

This may include:
🍑heavier periods
🍑periods that last longer or occur more often than normal
🍑bleeding between periods
🍑bleeding after menopause

Non-bloody abnormal va**nal discharge can also be a sign.

Many non-cancerous conditions can cause these symptoms. But any abnormal bleeding or discharge should always be checked by a GP or gynaecologist.

If you have gone through menopause, any va**nal bleeding should be reported to your doctor.

Remember that a cervical smear test does not detect uterine cancer, so it’s important to see your GP if you notice changes to your normal bleeding patterns or if you have any other symptoms.

Other signs and symptoms of uterine cancer can include:

🍑painful in*******se

🍑pelvic or abdominal pain

🍑pain or feeling of pressure in the pelvis, lower abdomen, back or legs

🍑pain during urination, difficulty urinating or blood in the urine

🍑painful bowel movements, constipation or blood in the stool

🍑bleeding from the bladder or re**um

🍑buildup of fluid in the abdomen (called ascites) or in the legs called (lymphoedema)

🍑weight loss

🍑lack of appetite

🍑shortness of breath

Please don’t ignore changes to your body – early investigation matters.

Learn more at talkpeach.org.nz link in bio

17/03/2026

Most uterine cancers begin in the endometrium, the lining of the uterus that thickens and sheds during the menstrual cycle. Uterine cancer is more common after menopause, but it can affect anyone with a uterus at any age.

Being aware of symptoms and changes to your body is super important – and to get these changes checked out. It’s a good idea to visit our website and note down any symptoms you have before visiting your GP.

Your GP will most likely do a pelvic examination, chat to you about your symptoms and how long things have been occurring. You may also be referred for further tests which can include a Transva**nal Ultrasound, biopsy, blood tests, CT scan, MRI scan.

Visit talkpeach.org.nz to learn more about the five gynaecological cancers, including their risk factors, signs and symptoms, stages and treatment options.

Link in bio to website.

10/03/2026

We often think of gynaecological health as just one big thing, but the cervix, ovaries, uterus, va**na and v***a are all different organs.The five gynaecological cancers that occur in these organs each have their own signs and symptoms — and they aren’t screened in the same way.

Remember that cervical screening checks the cervix only. It does not screen the ovaries, uterus, va**na or v***a.

The Talk Peach website (talkpeach.org.nz) has a wealth of information about all five gynaecological cancers, including their symptoms and risk factors.

Understanding the difference helps you better understand your body, recognise potential symptoms, and advocate for your health.

Peach cancer health

10/03/2026

https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/03/10/jacinda-ardern-fund-targets-cervical-cancer-in-pacific/

The former prime minister is using $5.1 million of funding originally granted in 2024 toward the cause.

09/03/2026

🍑🍑 Happy International Women’s Day for yesterday.🍑🍑

Get in-v***a’d in gynae awareness!

***a ***aart

26/02/2026

As Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close, a few things are clear.

Ovarian cancer is too often diagnosed late.

Outcomes are shaped by systems: by research priorities, diagnostic pathways, education, funding, and whose health is centred.

None of this changes because awareness month ends.

What changes outcomes is sustained pressure, lived experience shaping decisions, and long-term investment in earlier diagnosis and better care.

We’ll keep advocating for this – February and beyond.

23/02/2026

February is ovarian cancer awareness month.

Most people with ovarian cancer in Aotearoa are diagnosed late.

Too many barriers stand in the way of early diagnosis and effective care.
Treatment options at advanced stages remain limited.

It doesn’t have to stay this way. Increased awareness, advocacy, investment and equitable access will open the door to earlier detection, better care and improved outcomes.

Let’s keep pushing for a future where fewer lives are cut short by ovarian cancer.

18/02/2026

February is ovarian cancer awareness month. We’re sharing the signs and symptoms to help more people in Aotearoa recognise when something isn’t quite right for their body, and feel supported to get it checked.

Ovarian cancer is often called a ‘silent cancer’ because the symptoms are so easy to miss.

Know your normal - if you notice any changes to your body that persist for 2 weeks or more, please visit your GP.

Please take 5 to learn the signs, and pass them on.

Awareness saves lives.