Ovarian cancer symptoms can be tricky because they're often subtle or easy to mistake for something else. That said, here are the most common ones to watch for:
Pelvic & Abdominal Symptoms
- Bloating or abdominal swelling
- Pelvic or abdominal pain or pressure
- A lump or mass in the pelvic area
- Back pain
Digestive Show Full Answer
Ovarian cancer symptoms can be tricky because they're often subtle or easy to mistake for something else. That said, here are the most common ones to watch for:
Pelvic & Abdominal Symptoms:
- Bloating or abdominal swelling
- Pelvic or abdominal pain or pressure
- A lump or mass in the pelvic area
- Back pain
Digestive Symptoms:
- Feeling full quickly when eating
- Loss of appetite or difficulty eating
- Nausea, indigestion, or upset stomach
- Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
Urinary Symptoms:
- Needing to urinate more frequently or urgently
Other Symptoms:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight changes
- Painful sex The key thing to pay attention to is persistence and frequency. Occasional bloating or fatigue is normal for anyone, but if these symptoms are happening more than 12 times a month, are getting worse over time, or aren't improving with changes to diet, exercise, or medication — that's when it's really important to talk to a doctor.
Early-stage ovarian cancer often has no symptoms at all, which is why staying in tune with your body matters so much.
August 20