What Are Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Bloating (Abdominal swelling, clothes feel too tight)
Pelvic or Abdominal Pain
Gastrointestinal symptoms (Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, gas, indigestion, nausea)
Urinary Symptoms (urgency, frequency, burning, spasms)

Detecting Ovarian Cancer Early

Early detection of Cancer often results in the most positive treatment outcomes. There are 21, 650 cases of ovarian cancer every year and 75% of these are diagnosed as stage 3 or stage 4, making ovarian cancer one of the most deadly diagnoses. One out of every 55 American women get ovarian cancer. Early detection improves survival rate to over 90%. Pap smears only screen for cervical cancer. Be aware that there are no screenings for ovarian cancer at this time.

Identifying Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms of ovarian cancer are often subtle, persistent, and usually increase over time. Symptoms often include: Bloating (may even resemble being 2-4 months pregnant), pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, as well as urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency), change in bowels (often loose bowel movements), increased flatus, pain when sitting, and having to urinate during the night. Other common symptoms include: clothes feeling too tight, feeling “full”, nausea, vaginal bleeding or discharge, urinary problems, fatigue, fever, pain during intercourse, back pain, and difficulty breathing. It is wise to see your gynecologist if these symptoms are unusual for you and occur almost daily for more than a few weeks.

Why Seek Medical Attention Early for Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

Often women wait 9 months with symptoms before seeking medical care. Many women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are often first misdiagnosed with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), ovarian polyps, or fibroids before the accurate diagnosis is made. Since recurrence of cancer is a major theme it is important to celebrate life each year and celebrate birthdays.