Ovarian cancer is a potentially life-threatening disease that affects thousands of women each year. It can be difficult to detect in its early stages, which is why it’s important to be aware of the common warning signs of ovarian cancer.

Knowing these symptoms can help you seek medical attention as early as possible, increasing your chances of successful treatment and recovery.

What Is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that affects the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. It can originate from different cells within the ovaries and can spread to other areas of the body.

Ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect because its symptoms are often vague and can be easily attributed to other conditions. However, being aware of the warning signs can help you seek medical attention before the disease progresses.

1. Abdominal Swelling or Bloating

One of the most common symptoms of ovarian cancer is abdominal swelling or bloating. This can be caused by the growth of a tumor or the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen.

If you notice that your abdomen is larger than usual or you are experiencing persistent bloating, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately.

2. Pelvic Pain or Discomfort

Another symptom of ovarian cancer is pelvic pain or discomfort. This can be caused by a tumor pressing on nearby tissues or organs, or by the cancer spreading to other areas of the pelvis.

If you are experiencing persistent pelvic pain or discomfort, it’s important to discuss this symptom with your doctor to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

3. Changes in Bowel Habits

Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, can be a sign of ovarian cancer. These symptoms can occur due to the growth of a tumor or the pressure it places on the surrounding tissues and organs.

If you notice any changes in your bowel habits that persist for more than a few days, you should schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.

4. Loss of Appetite or Feeling Full Quickly

Women with ovarian cancer often experience a loss of appetite or feel full quickly, even after eating small amounts of food. This can be caused by the tumor putting pressure on the digestive system or producing chemicals that affect appetite.

If you are experiencing a loss of appetite or feeling full quickly, speak with your healthcare provider to determine the cause and determine the appropriate treatment course.

5. Frequent Urination

It is also possible for ovarian cancer to cause frequent urination. This can occur if the tumor places pressure on the bladder or in some cases, infiltrates the bladder muscle.

If you are experiencing frequent urination, speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and determine the best course of treatment.

6. Unexplained Weight Loss

Sudden or unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of ovarian cancer, especially in advanced stages of the disease. This can be caused by the tumor affecting the body’s metabolism or the loss of appetite commonly associated with the disease.

If you experience sudden or unexplained weight loss in combination with other symptoms on this list, you should schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

7. Fatigue

Women with ovarian cancer may experience persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest. This can be caused by the body’s immune system responding to the cancer or the metabolic changes associated with the disease.

If you are experiencing persistent fatigue, it’s important to discuss this symptom with your healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions.

8. Pain During Sex

Ovarian cancer can sometimes cause pain during sexual intercourse. This can occur if the tumor presses on the vagina or other parts of the reproductive system.

If you experience pain during sexual intercourse, you should speak with your healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate course of treatment.

9. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

Unusual or abnormal vaginal bleeding can occur in women with ovarian cancer. This can include light bleeding, spotting, or heavy bleeding.

If you experience unusual vaginal bleeding, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

10. Changes in Menstrual Cycle

Changes in your menstrual cycle can be a sign of ovarian cancer. This can include irregular periods, heavier or lighter periods than normal, or periods that stop altogether.

If you notice any changes in your menstrual cycle, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate course of treatment.

Conclusion

Ovarian cancer is a serious condition that can be difficult to detect in its early stages.

However, being aware of the common warning signs of ovarian cancer can help you seek medical attention as soon as possible, increasing your chances of successful treatment and recovery. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.