Many women experience symptoms long before an ovarian cancer diagnosis is made. Here are eight warning signs that doctors say should not be ignored.
When the warning signs are easy to miss
Ovarian cancer often develops with symptoms that can be mistaken for everyday health issues. This can make the disease difficult to detect in its early stages.
Persistent bloating
A constant feeling of bloating is one of the symptoms most commonly reported by women who are later diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
Feeling full too quickly
If you suddenly find yourself feeling full after eating only small amounts of food, and the symptom persists, it may be worth discussing with a doctor.
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Discomfort in the upper abdomen
Some women experience ongoing discomfort in the upper abdomen rather than symptoms in the pelvic area.
Changes in digestion
Long-lasting digestive issues can be one of the signs doctors recommend paying attention to.
Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
Recurring pain or a persistent feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic region should not be overlooked.
Changes in menstrual cycles
Irregular periods or noticeable changes in bleeding patterns may be symptoms that require medical evaluation.
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Bleeding after menopause
Any bleeding after menopause is considered an important warning sign and should be checked by a healthcare professional.
Unusual vaginal discharge
Persistent discharge, bloody discharge, or discharge with an unusual odour may indicate that something is wrong.
Monitor how long symptoms last
Doctors advise seeking medical advice if symptoms continue for more than two weeks or occur frequently throughout the month.
Family history may increase risk
Women with a family history of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, or colon cancer may have a higher risk of developing the disease themselves.
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Awareness matters
Because there is no routine screening test for ovarian cancer, recognizing the symptoms can play an important role in detecting the disease earlier.
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