Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is a disease in which malignant or cancerous cells are found in the ovaries. An ovary is one of two small, almond-shaped organs located on each side of the uterus that store eggs or germ cells and produce female hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Historically, ovarian cancer was called the “silent killer.” That’s because symptoms were not thought to develop until the chance of cure was poor. Recent studies, though, have shown this term is not accurate. The following symptoms are much more likely to occur in women with ovarian cancer than women in the general population:
- bloating
- pelvic or abdominal pain
- difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency)
Women with ovarian cancer report that symptoms are persistent and represent a change from normal for their bodies. The frequency and/or number of symptoms are a key factor in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Women who have these symptoms almost daily for more than 2-3 weeks should see their doctor, preferably a gynecologist. Several studies show that even early stage ovarian cancer can produce these symptoms. Prompt medical evaluation may lead to detection at the earliest possible stage. And early stage is associated with an improved prognosis.
Several other symptoms have been commonly reported by women with ovarian cancer. These symptoms include:
- fatigue
- indigestion
- back pain
- pain with intercourse
- constipation
- menstrual irregularities
However, these other symptoms are not as useful in identifying ovarian cancer. That’s because they are also found in equal frequency in women in the general population who do not have ovarian cancer.
It is important to understand that symptoms associated with ovarian cancer are common. They are also often due to other causes. We all have these symptoms from time to time. But that does not mean that we have ovarian cancer. However, if you have these symptoms, and they are new and occur almost daily, seek prompt medical attention. They could be a sign of ovarian cancer.
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