When bloating isn’t just hormones: Early ovarian warning signs women miss

Understanding ovarian anatomy helps identify early symptoms women often overlook. (Image: Pexels)

As they age women may sometimes experience small, everyday signs that something in the ovaries may not be right. However, many women push through fatigue, bloating or cycle changes, blaming it on stress or age.

Women often brush aside symptoms that deserve attention, says Dr Vani Ravikumar, Vice President, Lab Operations, R V Metropolis Healthcare Ltd. Karnataka, "But the ovaries play a central role in their  health, so even small changes can be significant", Dr Ravikumar tells Moneycontrol.

Speaking about the role of the ovaries through a woman’s life, Dr Ravikumar, says, “The ovaries release eggs, regulate menstrual cycles and produce key hormones like oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones influence everything from mood to metabolism.” As women age, she adds, the ovaries naturally shift gears, working at peak during reproductive years before gradually slowing down towards menopause. “A surprising range of conditions can disrupt ovarian health:
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
• Pelvic infections
• Endometriosis
• Ovarian cysts
• Benign or malignant tumours

Also Read: From genetics to lifestyle: Risk factors of ovarian cancer every woman should know

“These conditions often start subtly,” Dr. Ravikumar explains. “That’s why awareness is essential.”

Dr Ravikumar shares symptoms women should never brush aside:

• Missed, irregular or unpredictable periods
• Pelvic or lower-abdominal pain
• Spotting between cycles
• Persistent bloating or a heaviness in the abdomen
• Ongoing fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Excess facial or body hair (common in PCOS)
• Any bleeding after menopause

Ovarian cancer is being diagnosed more frequently, yet many cases surface late because early symptoms are vague. "While it can strike at any age, risk rises with advancing years. Contributing factors include smoking, long-term hormone replacement therapy, obesity, infertility, endometriosis, certain chemical exposures and family history", she says.

Additionally, strong family patterns of breast or ovarian cancer may hint at hereditary BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. “Genetic testing helps us identify women at increased risk,” tells Dr Ravikumar, adding, “In some cases, risk-reducing surgeries such as salpingo-oophorectomy are advised.”

Early checks, says the doctor, matter more than ever and adds, “Because symptoms often look like digestive or menstrual concerns, screening is vital, especially for high-risk women. Useful tools include the CA-125 blood test and transvaginal ultrasound. Neither is perfect alone, but together they strengthen early detection.”

Also Read: Signs of ovarian cancer: Why early symptoms go undetected, know the risk factors

Diagnosis, treatment and the move towards personalised care

If cancer is suspected, doctors rely on ultrasound, CT, MRI or PET scans to determine its extent. Treatment usually begins with surgery, followed by chemotherapy or radiation when required. Today’s care increasingly uses genetic and molecular testing, including Next-Generation Sequencing, to tailor treatment.

Ovarian cancer is challenging, but early action genuinely changes outcomes,” Dr Ravikumar concludes. “Women shouldn’t ignore their bodies’ early signals.”

FAQs on Ovarian Health and Bloating:

1. Why is ovarian health important?

Ovarian health is crucial because the ovaries regulate menstrual cycles, release eggs, and produce essential hormones that affect mood, metabolism, and overall health.

2. What are common signs of ovarian issues?

Common signs include missed, irregular, or unpredictable periods, pelvic or lower-abdominal pain, spotting between cycles, persistent bloating, ongoing fatigue, nausea, vomiting, excess facial or body hair, and any bleeding after menopause.

3. How can bloating be related to ovarian health?

Persistent bloating can be a sign of ovarian issues, including ovarian cysts, PCOS, or even ovarian cancer. It is important to consult a doctor if bloating persists.

4. When should I see a doctor about bloating?

If bloating is persistent, accompanied by other symptoms such as pelvic pain, irregular periods, or fatigue, it’s important to consult a doctor for a thorough evaluation.

5. How is ovarian cancer detected early?

Early detection of ovarian cancer can be aided by screening tools like the CA-125 blood test and transvaginal ultrasound, especially for women at high risk. Genetic testing is also important for those with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.