Ovarian cancer might not be the most talked-about cancer, but it’s certainly one that you can’t afford to ignore. This type of cancer starts in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system and are responsible for producing eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

Often dubbed the “silent killer,” ovarian cancer doesn’t always shout its presence early on. This is partly because its symptoms are often subtle and easily mistaken for common, less severe ailments. According to the American Cancer Society, ovarian cancer generally ranks fifth in cancer deaths among women, making it a serious health concern.

However, being attuned to your body can help you catch some subtle yet critical warning signs early. Here, we’re going to talk about five early signs of ovarian cancer that you shouldn’t overlook.

1. Persistent Bloating

Have you ever noticed that your abdomen seems perpetually bloated? If you’re experiencing bloating that doesn’t go away after a few days and occurs more than three times a month, it’s time to pay attention. This isn’t the usual bloating that comes from a heavy meal. Instead, it’s persistent and can be a sign that something isn’t right. Ovarian cancer can cause fluid buildup or a mass that presses against your stomach, contributing to this uncomfortable symptom.

A study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology found that persistent bloating is one of the most common early symptoms of ovarian cancer. The research emphasized that women who experience this symptom frequently and without an obvious cause should seek medical evaluation. The study highlighted that early detection is crucial for improving survival rates, making it essential to pay attention to persistent bloating.

2. Frequent Urination Urgency

If you find yourself rushing to the bathroom more often than usual without any changes in your liquid intake, it could be a red flag. An increased urge to urinate or experiencing urgent urination can be linked to ovarian cancer. The growth of a tumor can press on your bladder, making you feel the need to urinate more frequently. This is one of those signs that’s easy to brush off as a minor annoyance, but it’s worth discussing with your doctor.

3. Lower Abdominal or Pelvic Pain

Do you often feel discomfort or pain in your lower abdomen or pelvic area? This can be a sign of ovarian cancer. The pain might be dull, sharp, or cramp-like and can be confused with normal menstrual pain or digestive issues. However, if this pain is new, doesn’t go away, and is not related to your menstrual cycle, it’s important to get it checked out. This type of pain is particularly noteworthy when combined with other symptoms on this list.

A study published in The Lancet Oncology highlighted the significance of persistent lower abdominal or pelvic pain as an early symptom of ovarian cancer. The study revealed that women reporting new, continuous lower abdominal or pelvic pain had a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Thus, it is important to seek medical advice when experiencing such symptoms.

4. Feeling Full Quickly or Difficulty Eating

Changes in your appetite or feeling full unusually quickly during meals can also be early signs of ovarian cancer. If you notice that you’re not able to eat as much as you used to without feeling full, it could be due to a growth in the abdomen that limits the space in your stomach or impacts your digestion. While it might seem like a minor change, it’s essential to listen to what your body is telling you.

5. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain

Unexplained weight changes, be it loss or gain, can be a clue that something’s off in your body. Ovarian cancer can sometimes lead to sudden weight loss, even if your eating habits haven’t changed. Conversely, some women may experience weight gain due to fluid accumulation, known as ascites, which is associated with ovarian cancer. Either scenario warrants a conversation with your healthcare provider.

Why Should You Pay Attention to These Symptoms?

Ovarian cancer symptoms are often vague, which is why they can be easily overlooked. However, early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. If you’re experiencing a combination of these symptoms, it’s crucial to bring them up with your doctor. They might suggest further testing to rule out ovarian cancer or other health issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can these symptoms be signs of conditions other than ovarian cancer?

Yes, these symptoms can be associated with other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, urinary tract infections, or even normal menstrual cycles. However, the key is persistence and combination. If these symptoms are persistent and occur together frequently, it’s important to check for ovarian cancer.

2. How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?

Ovarian cancer is generally diagnosed through a combination of pelvic examinations, imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans, and blood tests that look for cancer markers. If these tests suggest the presence of cancer, a biopsy may be conducted to confirm the diagnosis.

3. What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer?

Risk factors include age (most common in women over 50), family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, and personal history of fertility treatment, among others. Some factors, like genetics, can’t be changed, but being aware of them can help you and your doctor make good decisions about your health.

References:

8 Everyday Foods That Can Cause Cancer