Ovarian Cancer (1 of 3) : Signs & Symptoms
By Luka Pinches
March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month which focusses on bringing awareness to this condition and its symptoms. Over 2/3 of cases of this cancer are diagnosed too late because of dismissal or misdiagnosis of symptoms. Currently 7 in 10 women diagnosed with ovarian cancer don’t live beyond 10 years. This month aims to improve awareness around the symptoms of ovarian cancer in order to improve early diagnosis.
Ovarian cancer is cancer of the ovaries, which are the 2 small organs that store the eggs and produce female sex hormones. It can affect anyone with ovaries but is most common in those over 50 years of age. Sometimes it runs in families so it is important to be aware if you have any family history with cancer. Surprisingly, you can still develop ovarian cancer if you’ve had your ovaries removed because it can also affect your fallopian tubes, or the peritoneum (abdominal cavity lining).
Cancers of the peritoneum, fallopian tubes and ovaries are often grouped together because of their similarities and overlap in treatment. The symptoms of ovarian cancer are very common and can be brought on by a variety of different conditions so they can be easy to miss. It is very important to get checked out by your doctor as soon as possible after you notice something may be wrong.
The main and most common symptoms are:
- Persistent swollen tummy or feeling bloated
- Pain or tenderness in your tummy or the area between your hips (pelvic pain)
- No appetite or feeling full quickly after eating
- An urgent need to pee, changes in urination or bowel habit
Other symptoms can also include:
- Indigestion
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Back pain
- Feeling of persistent tiredness or fatigue
- Losing weight without trying
- Unusual bleeding from the vagina, including between periods, heavier periods or after the menopause
The earlier we can catch cancers – of any kind – the easier it is to treat and the more likely treatment is to be successful. If you start to notice some of these changes but aren’t convinced it needs medical attention, it could be useful to keep a diary of your symptoms. Tracking what symptoms you’re experiencing, when and how often they are happening can help you discuss how you’re feeling with a professional. It may also be helpful to note down anything that eases your symptoms as this can help rule out other conditions. Oftentimes, ovarian cancer symptoms are dismissed or misdiagnosed due to their overlap with other conditions. Ovarian cancer is commonly misdiagnosed as symptoms of the menopause or digestive issues. It’s important to advocate for yourself – you know your body and you know when something isn’t right. To read the second instalment of this masterclass, click here.
