Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. It is one of the most deadly cancers among women, and early detection is essential for successful treatment.

However, ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages due to its vague and subtle symptoms. Here are ten early symptoms of ovarian cancer that every woman should be aware of:.

1. Abdominal Pain and Bloating

Abdominal pain and bloating are common symptoms of ovarian cancer. The pain can be intermittent or constant, and may feel like a heaviness or pressure in the lower abdomen.

Bloating may also be present, and may cause the abdomen to appear swollen or distended.

2. Increased Urination

Some women with ovarian cancer may experience an increased need to urinate, even if they do not drink more fluids than usual.

This may be due to the cancer putting pressure on the bladder, or it may be a sign of cancer cells affecting the hormone levels in the body.

3. Difficulty Eating and Feeling Full Quickly

Ovarian cancer can cause digestive issues, such as difficulty eating and feeling full quickly. This may be due to the cancer affecting the digestive system or putting pressure on the stomach and intestines.

These symptoms may be more noticeable after eating a small meal.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of many health conditions, including ovarian cancer. This may occur due to a loss of appetite from the cancer or from the body burning more calories than usual in an attempt to fight the cancer.

5. Fatigue and Low Energy

Women with ovarian cancer often experience fatigue and low energy levels, even when they get enough sleep. This may be due to the cancer cells affecting the hormone levels in the body or from the body trying to fight the cancer.

6. Changes in Bowel Habits

Ovarian cancer can cause changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea. These changes may be due to the cancer putting pressure on the colon or rectum, or from the cancer cells affecting the hormone levels in the body.

7. Pain During Intercourse

Pain during intercourse or other pelvic pain can be a symptom of ovarian cancer. This may be due to the cancer putting pressure on the reproductive organs or from the cancer cells affecting the hormone levels in the body.

8. Abnormal Menstrual Cycles

Some women with ovarian cancer may experience abnormal menstrual cycles, such as heavy bleeding or irregular periods. This may be due to the cancer affecting the hormone levels in the body.

9. Back Pain

Back pain can be a symptom of ovarian cancer, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloating. This may be due to the cancer spreading to other organs, such as the spine.

10. Feeling the Need to Urinate Urgently

Some women with ovarian cancer may feel the need to urinate urgently, even if they do not have a full bladder. This may be due to the cancer putting pressure on the bladder or from the cancer cells affecting the hormone levels in the body.