Ovarian cancer occurs when cells in the ovary multiply abnormally and a tumor grows. It's one of the deadliest cancers for women. According to the American Cancer Society, one of every 78 women develops the disease, and it will take an estimated 13,980 lives in 2019.
As with all forms of cancer, the best chance at survival comes with early detection. As Healthline explains, some signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer are also associated with less serious issues, so the disease often goes undetected or misdiagnosed. The symptoms below indicate ovarian cancer when they a) are a marked difference from your normal well-being and b) occur persistently over time. Try keeping a health diary, and record your experience of these symptoms for longer than a month. If any symptoms repeat more than 12 times in a month, see your doctor as soon as possible.
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1. Bloating. Abdominal swelling or bloating is a key symptom of ovarian cancer — especially when paired with weight loss — but it is also symptomatic of many non-serious gastrointestinal issues. Pay attention to whether your bloating is linked to certain foods and how frequently it occurs. Ovarian cancer usually causes persistent bloating; it doesn't come and go.
2. Pelvic or abdominal pain. This may manifest as feelings of pressure in the pelvis or lower back, or as pain during sexual intercourse.
3. Gastrointestinal issues. Becoming full very quickly can cause trouble eating. An upset stomach, indigestion, heartburn and nausea are other common symptoms. Pay special attention to whether this is linked to certain foods and how long it continues.
4. Urinary symptoms. These include a constant feeling of urgency (as if you always need to urinate), or actual increased frequency of urination. These also can indicate a urinary tract infection, which is painful but easily treated.
5. Bowel symptoms. The most common symptom here is constipation, but broadly speaking, look out for any change in bowel movements and habits.
6. Fatigue. Tiredness is common, so it's easy to misinterpret — but persistent fatigue and lack of energy in conjunction with any other symptoms on this list can be cause for concern.
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The Cancer Center advises that many of these symptoms are linked to other things, such as gastrointestinal or menstrual issues. They also can be symptomatic of ovarian cysts, which are common and not usually cancerous. Be aware of your own body, and pay attention to these symptoms. Are they frequent, persistent and new? If so, have a chat with your doctor or gynecologist sooner rather than later. Remember that early detection is the key to survival.