All About Ovarian Cancer: Symptoms You Should NOT Ignore!

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the ovaries, which are small organs located in the female reproductive system. The ovaries produce eggs (ovum) as well as hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.

Ovarian cancer typically begins with the development of abnormal cells in one or both ovaries. These cancer cells can rapidly multiply and invade healthy body tissue, eventually leading to ovarian cancer.

Epithelial ovarian cancer is the most common type of ovarian cancer, accounting for approximately 85 to 90% of all malignant ovarian cancers.

It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer as early detection can greatly increase the chances of survival.

#1: Bloating

Feeling full and thinking it's just gas? While bloating can be a common problem, persistent bloating could be a sign of early-stage ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer causes bloating by creating pressure in the abdomen, leading to a swollen and distended stomach. This happens when cancerous cells develop in the ovaries or fallopian tubes, which are part of the female reproductive system.

#2: Period Problems

​Ovarian cancer can have an impact on a person's menstrual cycles, according to the American Cancer Society. It can cause changes in one's menstrual cycle, such as heavier or irregular bleeding.

​Ovarian tumours can mess with your menstrual cycle and cause missed or delayed periods. They can also produce oestrogen that can cause unpredictable periods or bleeding. Young girls with these tumours can even hit puberty early and experience periods and breast development.

It's important to keep an eye out for abnormal bleeding and other symptoms of ovarian cancer to catch any potential issues early on.

#3: Pain During Sex

If you've been feeling physical pain during or after sex, it could be a sign of ovarian cancer. Painful intercourse is usually caused by the pressure of the tumour on the uterus, cervix, or other organs in the pelvic area.

Ovarian cancer can also cause hormonal changes that lead to vaginal dryness, which can also cause discomfort during sex.

#4: Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is one of the symptoms found in the early stages of ovarian cancer and can be caused by the growth of ovarian tumours. These tumours can lead to discomfort and tenderness in the tummy or pelvis area.

In some cases, tumours can build up in the pelvis, abdomen, bowel, and even the diaphragm, leading to discomfort and pain. Fluid buildup can also worsen these symptoms.

It's important to note that while ovarian cancer can be a cause of this type of pain, there are many other possible causes as well. Acid reflux, for example, can also cause abdominal pain, as can other digestive issues.

#5: Weird Bowel Habits

A change in bowel habits that alternates between constipation and diarrhoea is one of the symptoms of ovarian cancer. This can come on suddenly and be pretty severe.

While this could be a sign of gastrointestinal issues like irritable bowel syndrome, it's important to consider the possibility of the tumour itself causing pressure on nearby organs, like the bowel.

Developing Ovarian Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment

So do you think you might develop ovarian cancer. What to do? Well, the first step is to visit your doctor. They will perform a physical examination, ask you questions about your medical history and symptoms, and may order tests such as an ultrasound or biopsy.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, ovarian cancer treatment can include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy, and radiation therapy. The type of treatment will depend on the factors such as the size and stage of the tumour, patient's age, and overall health.

Although the symptoms can be associated with other conditions, it's always a good idea to speak with your doctor if you have any concerns, especially if you have risk factors like a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, or if you've undergone hormone replacement therapy.

There are many ways to treat ovarian cancer and with the right care, a full recovery is possible. If you notice something is off or not quite right, it's important to seek medical help as soon as possible. Early detection is key, and it can make a world of difference in your treatment plan and overall outcome.