World cancer day: Symptoms of ovarian cancer women should never ignore for early detection

Ovarian cancer is commonly known as a “silent cancer” because the early symptoms are mild and easy to miss. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

• Ovarian cancer symptoms are mild and often mistaken for common health issues
• Early diagnosis and routine gynecological screening improve treatment outcomes
• Consult a doctor if symptoms like bloating, pain, or menstrual changes occur

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Ovarian cancer is not easy to detect and early symptoms can be easy to miss. Disease awareness followed by early medical assessment is vital for early diagnosis and successful treatment.

Ovarian cancer is commonly known as a “silent cancer” because the early symptoms are mild and easy to miss. Symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, changes in bowel movement and unexplained fatigue that many women consider as regular health concerns can be alarming and prompt action on these symptoms could be lifesaving.

For even the Doctors, getting an early diagnosis can make a world of difference for treatment options and survival rates. Ovarian cancer is characterized by uncontrolled growth of cells in the ovaries and it can be either epithelial or nonepithelial. It can progress to another part of the body if not treated quickly.

“Advances in imaging, surgical and targeted therapies have been making progress for better control of this disease when diagnosed early. Creating awareness about early symptoms among women and motivating women to undergo routine gynaecological screening are important steps for early diagnosis and good prognosis,” says Dr Chandrima Ray, Consultant – Gynaecological Oncosurgery at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow.

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1) Swelling or Bloating in the lower belly or pelvis is a symptom of ovarian cancer. This swelling can be normal or accompanied with pain. This symptom is often mistaken as menopause, IBS or weight gain. So, on occurrence of these symptoms, one should consult a doctor.

2) Abdominal or Pelvic pain during sexual intercourse or pain during bowel movements may also be a symptom of ovarian cancer.

3) Difficulty in eating followed by loss of appetite or trouble swallowing can be a symptom of ovarian cancer.

4) Sudden weight gain or weight loss can also be a symptom of ovarian cancer.

5) Issues related to urine like frequent urination, leakage of urine, urge to pee & urinary incontinence can also be symptom of ovarian cancer.

6) Feeling tired every time or feeling weakness that's not relieved by rest is another noticeable symptom.

7) Persistent lower back pain may also be a symptom.

8) Menstrual changes: Changes in menstrual cycle like irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or post-menopausal bleeding should also be considered as one of the symptoms of ovarian cancer.

The above listed symptoms vary according to the stage like.

a) In Early stage

No or Vague symptoms like lower abdomen pain and frequency of urination.

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b) In Later stage

Bloating or swelling, feeling of early fullness after meals, gastritis, pain and heaviness, vomiting, anorexia, swelling of feet, legs, shortness of breath

c) Distant metastasis

It means when ovarian cancer spreads to other part of body. For example, in lungs fluid build - up in lungs- cough, shortness of breath happens

So, one should visit a doctor immediately if one or more of these symptoms are seen.

FAQs on ovarian cancer:

1. What is ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system and produce eggs and hormones.

2. What are the common symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Common symptoms include persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, feeling full quickly, frequent urination, fatigue, and unexplained weight changes. Symptoms are often subtle in early stages.

3. Why is ovarian cancer often detected late?

Early-stage ovarian cancer usually causes mild or non-specific symptoms that are easy to ignore or mistake for digestive issues, leading to delayed diagnosis.

4. Who is at higher risk of ovarian cancer?

Risk factors include increasing age, family history of ovarian or breast cancer, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), and certain reproductive or hormonal factors.

5. Can ovarian cancer be prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent ovarian cancer, but regular medical checkups, awareness of symptoms, genetic counseling (for high-risk individuals), and healthy lifestyle choices may help reduce risk.

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