Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries and can spread to other parts of the body. It is the fifth most common cancer in women and often goes undiagnosed until it reaches an advanced stage.

Knowing the major signs of ovarian cancer can help with early detection and increase your chance of successful treatment. In this article, we will discuss seven major signs of ovarian cancer that every woman needs to know.

1. Abdominal Swelling and Bloating

One of the most common symptoms of ovarian cancer is abdominal swelling and bloating. If your stomach feels full and you are experiencing persistent bloating, it may be a sign of ovarian cancer.

This symptom is often misdiagnosed as indigestion or weight gain. However, if the bloating persists for more than two weeks, it is important to get it checked by your doctor.

2. Pelvic Pain

Another major sign of ovarian cancer is pelvic pain. The pain may feel like menstrual cramps or a dull ache in your lower abdomen. If you experience pelvic pain that does not go away or gets worse over time, it is important to seek medical attention.

3. Difficulty Eating

Women with ovarian cancer often experience a loss of appetite or difficulty eating. They may feel full after eating small portions or have trouble swallowing. This symptom can be due to the pressure of the growing tumor on the stomach or intestines.

4. Urinary Symptoms

Ovarian cancer can also cause urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency to urinate, or difficulty urinating. These symptoms can be confusing as they can also be caused by other conditions such as a urinary tract infection.

However, if you experience these symptoms along with any of the other signs on this list, it is important to seek medical attention.

5. Fatigue and Malaise

Many women with ovarian cancer also experience fatigue and a general feeling of malaise. They may feel tired even after getting a good night’s sleep or have a lack of energy to do everyday tasks.

This symptom can be due to the body’s immune response to the cancer.

6. Changes in Bowel Habits

Women with ovarian cancer may experience changes in their bowel habits such as constipation, diarrhea, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation. These changes can be caused by the pressure of the growing tumor on the intestines.

If you experience these symptoms along with any of the other signs on this list, it is important to seek medical attention.

7. Abnormal Bleeding

Abnormal bleeding can be a sign of many different conditions, including ovarian cancer. Women with ovarian cancer may experience irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or bleeding after menopause.

It is important to see your doctor if you experience any abnormal bleeding.

Causes and Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer

The exact cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, but there are certain risk factors that increase your chance of developing the disease. Some of these risk factors include:.

Age over 50
Family history of ovarian or breast cancer
Inherited gene mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2)
Personal history of breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer
Never being pregnant
Endometriosis
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

While these risk factors do not guarantee that you will develop ovarian cancer, it is important to be aware of them and to discuss them with your doctor.

Early Detection and Treatment

Early detection is key to successful treatment of ovarian cancer. If you experience any of the signs listed above, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible.

Your doctor may perform a pelvic exam, blood test, or imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan. If ovarian cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the stage of the disease and may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. It is important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

Conclusion

Ovarian cancer can be a serious disease that often goes undiagnosed until it reaches an advanced stage. Knowing the major signs of ovarian cancer can help with early detection and increase your chance of successful treatment.

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible.