4 Early Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer That Every Woman Needs to Know

Unfortunately, cancer is one of the leading causes of deaths worldwide and it is responsible for 30 percent of all deaths in Canada, which is more than other diseases and other causes. According to the Canadian and American Cancer Societies, there were 22,280 new ovarian cases and 14,240 deaths in the U.S. in 2016, whereas in Canada, the number is expected to rise to 2800 new cases and 1750 deaths.

Ovarian Cancer

This cancer happens when the ovaries cells develop malignant tumors. Since it is not easily detectable with screening and due to the lack of specific symptoms, some refer to it as the ‘silent killer’.

Even though it is more common in post-menopausal women, statistics show that there has been an increase in the occurrence of ovarian cancer in women in their 30s and 40s, but in younger women as well. According to a British research, early detection of ovarian cancer can significantly elevate the patient’s chance of survival. This is why women need to pay a lot of attention to changes in their bodies and to consult their physicians as soon as they notice something out of the ordinary.

How Is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?

In the moment, there is no reliable test. Namely, smear tests do not pick up malignant cysts and the CA125 blood tests often give false negatives. What’s more, in a lot of situations, the symptoms of this illness are confused for other diseases such as IBS, which leaves early stage tumors undiagnosed until they reach the third stage characterized by lumps in the abdominal and pelvic area. This is why women need to learn how to recognize the early signs and consult a doctor.

The 4 Early Signs of Ovarian Cancer

Bloating

Chronic bloating, that is, bloating that has been going on for more than 3 weeks or so, could be a sign of a tumor.

Pain in the abdominal and pelvic area

Although menstrual cramps in the lower stomach, pelvic, and lower back are common during menstruation, experiencing them after the period could indicate cancer of the ovaries.

Loss of appetite and a feeling of fullness

If you have been eating less than you usually do and if this has been going on for more than three, weeks, you should consult your physician. However, this could also be a symptom of other health problems like problems with the bowel, intestines, and the stomach.

An increased need for urination

The urge to urinate all the time, even though one is drinking the same amount of fluids as before, they could have early stage ovarian cancer.