Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

Ovaries are the major part of the female reproductive system; there are two ovaries present in the pelvic region of females. Ovaries help in the production of eggs/ova and the process is called ovulation, this process helps the female in conceiving. The ovaries also produce two of the most important hormones; estrogen and progesterone. Here, we know about ovarian cancer symptoms in females.

Like all the other body organs, cancer growth can occur in the ovaries as well, and it is deadly if not treated on the time. Ovarian cancer is the second leading cause of death among females; the first one is breast cancer. The ratio of females being diagnosed with ovarian cancer is increasing day by day.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer occurs with an abnormal growth of the tumor cells in the ovaries, where they quickly multiply and increases in size over time. If this is left untreated, it can easily convert itself into metastatic cancer, which can spread to all other parts of the body easily.

There are many warning signs of ovarian cancer, but ovarian cancer begins with simple symptoms that people can dismiss easily.

Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

People suffering from ovarian cancer may show warning signs when their cancer reaches the higher stages, before that there are a few signs and symptoms that do occur, but it is easy to miss them because people may confuse them with other simpler diseases as well.

Early Signs and Symptoms of ovarian cancer symptoms

• Pain and pressure in the abdomen
• Feeling full after little eating
• Frequent urination
• The instant urge to urinate
• These early signs can be the symptoms of other underlying conditions as well.

Delayed Signs and Symptoms

There are many other symptoms caused by ovarian cancer that occur after many times.

• Lethargy
• Digestive problems
• Irregular periods
• Back pain
• Weight loss
• Less appetite
• Constipation

Symptoms become more severe when the size of the tumor grows, and these symptoms will persists if they are associated with ovarian cancer.

Intense Symptoms

Ovarian cancer shows severe symptoms in females when it reaches the last stages of cancer. These include,

• Pleural effusion
• Ascites
• Bowel obstruction

Let us go into detail about these symptoms that when to be cautious and when to let it goes. If your symptoms persist, consult the doctor. If they come and go, or if they are not getting better with the help of over-the-counter medications, it is a sign that you are fighting the deadly disease.

Bloating

Bloating is a very common problem that has been experienced by almost every female. There are many other reasons for bloating; it is defined as the feeling of fullness or heaviness in your abdominal region. Bloating can be caused by many foods, but it is at a higher stage around your menstrual cycle. Females tend to feel bloated before their periods, and throughout their periods. It is an uncomfortable sensation. It is very normal to feel bloated, but if it lasts constantly for three to four weeks, then it is not normal to feel bloated.

Persistent feeling of bloating is one of the early ovarian cancer symptoms in females and people dismiss this sign by confusing it with periods of bloating. Bloating linked with an abnormal swelling of your stomach is not normal, it is a major red flag indicating the problem.

Constipation

Your gastrointestinal issues are highly linked with ovarian cancer if they persist. While gastrointestinal issues can be normal as well, caused by food poisoning, and many other things such as depression, stress, anxiety, and IBS. 

However, when we talk about ovarian cancer, constipation is the common sign and symptom of cancer. Paying attention to the habits that your bowel movements adopt is of high importance, any new constipation that is not going away with any home remedies or medications can be a sign.

Delayed Pain

Any pressure or pain in the lower abdomen or in the back that stays for more than three weeks can be a sign of ovarian cancer. However, this pain can be a sign or symptom of many other underlying conditions as well, if this pain is not coming and going, or if this pain is new to you. It can be a sign of pain.

If you are in a stress full environment you can also feel the pain in these areas, when you notice that the stress is alleviated, you will notice an improvement in pain as well, if this happens it means that pain was associated with the stress.

However, it is hard to differentiate the symptoms that are caused by gastrointestinal problems or by ovarian cancer because they are almost the same.

If you are suffering from these symptoms or they are not going away on their own, or even after everything you have tried, then you need to see a doctor for this.

• Pelvic examination
• Endoscopy
• Blood tests
• CT scan, MRI, or Ultrasound

Changed Bladder Functions

Women also notice problems associated with the normal functioning of the bladder, for example, they experience pain while passing urine, and they also notice more frequent urination than normal. As we have already discussed that early signs of ovarian cancer can be easily dismissed or confused with other less serious issues.

In this case, when women feel pain or problems associated with urination, they tend to confuse these problems with urinary tract infections. Sometimes, it is a urinary tract infection.

However, the issues related to the bladder can be an ovarian cancer symptom in females.

Ovarian cancer symptoms associated with the bladder can be as follow:

• Pressure or pain in the bladder
• Increased urination
• Increased urge to urinate

If these issues that are associated with urination or bladder are new to you, or if they persist for more than three weeks after trying every remedy or OTC medication, then you should consult your gynecologist because it can be an early sign of a problem that is very serious, and it is ovarian cancer.

Decreased Appetite

Many women suffering from ovarian cancer have seen difficulty in eating, losing appetite is a common symptom of ovarian cancer. With the loss of appetite, and feeling of fullness after a few bites of your meal or if you face difficulty in finishing even the smaller meals then it can be a sign or serious prevailing condition and you should get yourself checked in this case. Ovarian cancer symptoms in females are a serious issue.

CONCLUSION:

ovarian cancer is a deadly disease that affects thousands of women each year. Although it can be difficult to detect, knowing the common symptoms of ovarian cancer can help with early diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and changes in bowel habits should be taken seriously and evaluated by a medical professional. It is important for women to be aware of their bodies and to seek medical attention if they experience any unusual symptoms. With early detection and treatment, the chances of surviving ovarian cancer can be greatly improved.

FAQs

Q: What is ovarian cancer?

A: Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries, which are located in the female reproductive system.

Q: What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?

A: The symptoms of ovarian cancer can include bloating, abdominal or pelvic pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and changes in bowel habits. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis.

Q: Who is at risk for ovarian cancer?

A: Women who are over 50 years old, have a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, have never been pregnant, or have a personal history of breast or colorectal cancer are at increased risk for ovarian cancer.

Q: How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?

A: Ovarian cancer is diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, blood tests, imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans, and biopsies.

Q: What is the treatment for ovarian cancer?

A: Treatment for ovarian cancer typically involves surgery to remove the cancerous tissue and chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. In some cases, radiation therapy may also be used.

Q: Can ovarian cancer be prevented?

A: There is no sure way to prevent ovarian cancer, but some factors that may help reduce the risk include having children, breastfeeding, using birth control pills, and undergoing a tubal ligation or hysterectomy.

Q: What is the survival rate for ovarian cancer?

A: The survival rate for ovarian cancer varies depending on the stage at which it is diagnosed. If caught early, the five-year survival rate is around 93%, but this drops to 30% for more advanced stages of the disease.

Q: Are there any support groups for ovarian cancer patients and their families?

A: Yes, there are many support groups available for ovarian cancer patients and their families. These groups provide emotional support, information, and resources to help individuals and families navigate the challenges of the disease.

Q: Can ovarian cancer recur after treatment?

A: Yes, ovarian cancer can recur after treatment. This is why regular follow-up appointments and monitoring are important for women who have been treated for ovarian cancer.

Q: What are the different types of ovarian cancer?

A: There are several different types of ovarian cancer, including epithelial tumors (which make up the majority of ovarian cancers), germ cell tumors, and stromal tumors.

Q: How is ovarian cancer staged?

A: Ovarian cancer is staged based on the size of the tumor, whether it has spread to other parts of the body, and other factors. Staging helps doctors determine the best course of treatment.

Q: What is the role of genetics in ovarian cancer?

A: Certain genetic mutations, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, are associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer may want to consider genetic testing to determine if they carry these mutations.

Q: Can ovarian cancer be cured?

A: Ovarian cancer can be cured in some cases, particularly if it is caught early. However, the likelihood of a cure decreases as the cancer progresses and spreads.

Q: What is the impact of ovarian cancer on fertility?

A: Treatment for ovarian cancer can impact fertility, particularly if surgery involves the removal of one or both ovaries. Women who are concerned about fertility should discuss their options with their doctor before starting treatment.

Q: What resources are available for women with ovarian cancer?

A: There are many resources available for women with ovarian cancer, including support groups, online forums, and advocacy organizations. These resources can provide emotional support, information, and resources to help women and their families navigate the challenges of the disease.