The symptoms of ovarian cancer, especially in the early stages of the disease, are quite similar to other health issues like Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS) or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This makes it difficult to diagnose the condition. Only about 15-20% of ovarian cancer cases are detected in the early stages, but women should be aware of these main symptoms of ovarian cancer to facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment:

• Swollen abdomen or constantly feeling bloated : The accumulation of fluid in the pelvis or abdomen is known as ascites and can cause a feeling of bloating.
• Discomfort in the pelvic or abdominal region : This includes persistent bloating, gas, pressure, and cramps.
• Appetite loss : This is a common symptom of ovarian and other types of cancer that affect the reproductive system.
• Feeling full more quickly when eating : The fluid buildup in the abdomen could result in feeling full after eating very little.
• An urge to urinate more often or more urgently than usual : The growth of the tumor increases pressure on the bladder and can cause these urinary issues. That said, this symptom could also be a sign of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).
• Vaginal bleeding : This symptom, especially after menopause, could indicate ovarian cancer. If one notices spotting after menopause or bleeding between periods or during sex, it’s advisable to consult a doctor. Ovarian stromal tumors account for about 1% of all ovarian cancer cases and can cause period-like bleeding even after menopause due to the production of estrogen.

A few other symptoms of ovarian cancer are listed below. Some of these signs also develop due to other forms of cancer and usually persist for more than 2 weeks and do not get better with basic treatment:

• Persistent indigestion
• Pain during sex
• Changes in bowel habits indicate advanced cancer as the tumor presses down on the colon
• Back pain due to fluid buildup in the abdominal or pelvic region or due to the growth of the tumor that irritates the tissue of the lower back
• Extreme tiredness or fatigue that does not get better even after resting usually occurs due to lack of adequate nutrition because of appetite loss or due to the body trying to fight the infection
• Unexplained weight loss of over 10 pounds without changing one’s diet or exercise regimen requires a consultation with the doctor.
• Constipation
• Advanced stages of ovarian cancer can result in breathing issues as the tumor grows and presses on the lungs, preventing proper inhalation and exhalation

These symptoms of ovarian cancer can get severe as the tumor grows and spreads out of the ovaries.

If a woman experiences these symptoms of ovarian cancer or is at risk of or has a history of breast cancer, they should consult a doctor and get screened for ovarian cancer.