OVARIAN CANCER

Learn about ovarian cancer, including risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, stories from our community, and where to find support.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF OVARIAN CANCER

The signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer are often vague or non-specific, such as unexplained weight changes and appetite loss. This is one of the key reasons why ovarian cancer is so lethal and is mostly diagnosed in the advanced stages (3 and 4).

While recent research identified these as the most common four symptoms, others can include:

Unexplained weight loss or gain
Changes in bowel patterns
Indigestion, reflux or nausea
Lower back pain or cramps
Excessive or unexplained fatigue
Bleeding after menopause or in-between periods
Pain during intercourse and/or bleeding after

Remember these symptoms can be caused by other, less serious medical conditions. However, if you have persistent symptoms, please see your doctor.

WHAT ARE THE EARLY SIGNS OF OVARIAN CANCER?

Unfortunately, there are not signs and symptoms specific to ovarian cancer and in some cases, ovarian cancer can be asymptomatic (have no symptoms) until it advances into later stages. Some ovarian cancer subtypes may be faster growing, causing symptoms such as significant bloating or abdominal pain to present earlier, however every individual case is different.

Raise awareness by sharing the signs & symptoms of ovarian cancer

Want to raise awareness of ovarian cancer in your network? You can find ready-made social media tiles and posters featuring the signs & symptoms of ovarian cancer, plus other helpful collateral on our resources page.

View resources

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN OVARIAN CYST AND OVARIAN CANCER

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can be found on the surface of the ovary or inside an ovary. Ovarian cysts are not a type of ovarian cancer, but it is important to consult your doctor for medical advice if you have any severe or unusual abdominal or pelvic pain.

The symptoms of ovarian cysts can mimic common signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, including:

Pelvic pain - a dull or sharp ache in the lower abdomen
Bloating
Feeling of abdominal fullness, heaviness or pressure

Very rarely, ovarian cysts may develop into ovarian cancer, but in most cases, ovarian cysts do not present any major concerns or discomfort.

References

Symptom-triggered testing detects early stage and low volume resectable advanced stage ovarian cancer ROCkeTS collaborators et al. International Journal of Gynecological Cancer, Volume 36, Issue 1, 101848
The Mayo Clinic