Ovarian cancer is a very serious disease that affects thousands of women worldwide every year. Unfortunately, it’s often detected too late, making it more difficult to treat.

Knowing the subtle indications of ovarian cancer can make a big difference in detecting it early enough for successful treatment.

1. Abdominal or Pelvic Pain

Abdominal or pelvic pain is a common symptom of ovarian cancer. The pain can be mild or severe and may come and go.

Women often mistake this pain for menstrual cramps, but if it persists or becomes more intense, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

2. Bloating

Bloating is also a common symptom of ovarian cancer. You may feel like your stomach is full even after eating very little. Although bloating can be caused by many things, if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it may be a sign of ovarian cancer.

3. Frequent Urination

One of the early indications of ovarian cancer is frequent urination. You may need to go to the bathroom more often than usual, and you may feel like your bladder is not completely empty. This can be a sign of a growing tumor pressing on the bladder.

4. Loss of Appetite

Ovarian cancer can cause a loss of appetite and unintended weight loss. You may feel full even after eating a small amount of food.

If you’ve noticed that you’ve lost weight recently without trying to, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

5. Fatigue

Fatigue is a common symptom of many illnesses, including ovarian cancer. You may feel tired all the time, even after getting enough sleep. This fatigue is caused by the cancer cells using up your body’s resources.

6. Back Pain

Back pain can be a symptom of ovarian cancer, particularly if it’s persistent and accompanied by other symptoms. The pain can be dull or sharp and may be felt in the lower back or around the hips.

7. Changes in Bowel Movements

Ovarian cancer can cause changes in bowel movements, such as constipation or diarrhea. If you’ve noticed a sudden change in your bowel movements that persists for more than a week, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

8. Abnormal Bleeding

Abnormal bleeding is a symptom of many reproductive cancers, including ovarian cancer. If you experience bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

9. Unusual Vaginal Discharge

Unusual vaginal discharge can be a sign of ovarian cancer, particularly if it’s bloody or has a foul odor. If the discharge persists for more than a week, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

10. Difficulty Eating or Feeling Full Quickly

Ovarian cancer can cause a feeling of fullness even after eating a small amount of food. You may also experience discomfort or pain while eating. If you’ve noticed a change in your eating habits, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

Conclusion

Ovarian cancer is a serious disease, but if caught early, it can be successfully treated. Knowing the subtle indications of ovarian cancer can help you detect it early and seek treatment.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor.