IRVINE’S MP wants more women in her constituency to talk about gynaecological issues after the launch of a new information service.

Ask Eve has been devised to help raise awareness of the key signs and symptoms associated with gynaecological cancers.

The service encourage women across the country talk more openly about gynaecological issues with a healthcare professional.

Despite gynaecological cancers being the second most common cancer among women in the UK and the world’s fourth biggest cancer killer, new research from gynaecological cancer research charity, The Eve Appeal, shows an alarming lack of awareness about the significance of identifying early signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancers.

A survey carried out by the organisation demonstrated that nearly three quarters of women (71 per cent) have experienced a symptom which may be associated with gynaecological cancer.

And a YouGov survey showed that nearly a fifth (19 per cent) of women would wait four weeks or more before visiting a health professional about the main symptom associated with all gynaecological cancers - irregular vaginal bleeding.

Commenting on the research, Dr Whitford said: “Seeking advice early for signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancer can lead to an early diagnosis and allows a small cancer to be treated with limited surgery rather than more complex procedures.

“Treatment at an early stage is also more likely to be successful. This is why I am delighted that The Eve Appeal have launched Ask Eve.

“Having a free and confidential service where women have direct access to specialist nurses with whom they can discuss any concerns they have is a welcome step in getting women to seek help more quickly when it comes to their gynaecological health.

“Ask Eve can be an easy first step to getting advice and women can be rest assured that no question will be seen as daft or embarrassing. Women know their own bodies and need to trust their instincts.

“If they experience anything unusual then they should not be afraid or embarrassed to seek advice from their GP.”

Visit the Ask Eve website at healthunlocked.com/ask-eve or call 0800 802 0019 to speak to a specialist nurse.