Bloating or feeling full quickly
Difficulty eating
Back pain
Fatigue
Pain or pressure in pelvis or abdomen
Frequent or urgent urination
Constipation or changes in bowel habits
Other symptoms may include indigestion, pain with intercourse, and menstrual irregularities, although these symptoms are found equally in women without the disease. If these symptoms are daily & last a few weeks, you should see a GYN and have a physical exam and transvaginal ultrasound. Any abnormality should be referred to a GYN Oncologist and request a CA125 blood test.
In most cases, ovarian cancer isn’t diagnosed until it has progressed to an advanced stage. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, only about 20 percent of cases are diagnosed at an early stage. Typically, this is because ovarian cancer symptoms either aren’t apparent in the early stages of the disease or they mimic common stomach and digestive issues that are often mistaken for minor ailments. Women are more likely to experience symptoms once the disease has spread beyond the ovaries.
Many people mistakenly believe that a Pap smear test can detect ovarian cancer. In fact, there is no reliable routine screening test for ovarian cancer, so women with a family history of the disease or other risk factors should talk to their doctor about genetic testing and other steps to monitor or help reduce their risk. Routine gynecologic care and annual pelvic exams are recommended to follow up on symptoms of ovarian cancer.