Signs of Ovarian Cancer
Signs of Ovarian Cancer
Women are often told that bloating is just part of life, linked to their cycles, stress, or something they ate. But sometimes, persistent bloating is your body’s way of signaling something more serious. Ovarian cancer signs and symptoms show up in ways that are easy to overlook or explain away.
In this blog, we’ll go beyond the bloat to highlight lesser-known signs of ovarian cancer, because understanding the subtle changes in your body could make all the difference.
It’s Not Always “Just That Time of the Month”
Bloating can happen for many reasons, especially related to menstrual cycles and hormone shifts. Around ovulation and before your period, changing hormone levels can cause water retention and slowed digestion, leading to that uncomfortable, swollen feeling.
Certain foods like dairy, salty snacks, or carbonated drinks can also trigger stomach bloating, especially if you’re sensitive to them. Chewing gum can even cause you to feel bloated due to swallowing excess air, triggering gas buildup.
Digestive issues such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gas buildup, or eating too quickly can play a role as well. While these causes are usually harmless and short-lived, bloating that lingers or worsens over time may signal something more and should be checked out.
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What Is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer develops when abnormal cells grow and multiply uncontrollably, often without causing noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
Common warning signs include persistent pelvic or abdominal pain, feeling full quickly or having trouble eating, and frequent or urgent urination. Other symptoms may include extreme fatigue, an upset stomach, back pain, pain during sex, and constipation. Unexplained abdominal swelling, especially when paired with weight loss, is another possible red flag.
There are several types of ovarian cancer, with high grade serous ovarian cancer being the most common epithelial subtype. Because the ovaries sit deep in the abdomen, tumors can grow quietly and go undetected for some time.
A women’s lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer is approximately 1.3%. Age is one of the biggest factors, as about half of all cases are diagnosed in women aged 63 or older. A family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer can also increase your chances, especially if you carry inherited gene mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2. Other risk factors include endometriosis, never having been pregnant, and going through menopause later in life. That said, ovarian cancer can still happen to younger women and those without any known risk factors.
Why These Symptoms Are Often Missed
Ovarian cancer doesn’t always come with loud or obvious symptoms. Instead, it can creep in with subtle changes that are easy to dismiss, like feeling full quickly after eating, needing to urinate more often or urgently, or experiencing unusual fatigue. Some women notice mild pelvic or abdominal pain that doesn’t go away, or changes in bowel habits like constipation.
Because these signs often mimic everyday issues, they’re easy to overlook. As a result, most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, typically Stage III or IV, after the cancer has already spread. Any new symptoms that are persistent, or worsening, they deserve attention. Listening to your body and knowing what’s not normal for you can be your first step toward catching something early.
Gynecologic Cancers Share Symptoms, So Know Them All
Ovarian cancer is just one of several gynecologic cancers that can affect women, and many of them share overlapping symptoms. Uterine cancer, cervical cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer can all cause subtle changes like unusual bleeding, pelvic pain, or changes in discharge. Because these signs can seem like minor or routine health issues, they’re often brushed aside.
However, early detection is key, since many gynecologic cancers have a better prognosis when they are caught early. Paying attention to symptoms and keeping up with regular checkups, including pelvic exams and Pap smears when recommended, can make a critical difference in your health journey.
Feeling Off? Here’s Your Next Move
If you’re feeling like something isn’t right or facing a cancer diagnosis, don’t wait to get answers. Early action can make all the difference. Our team is here to help you understand your options and guide you through the latest, most effective treatments available. Reach out by filling out our form and connect with one of our experts to get the support and information you need.
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