Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death among women. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2019, more than 22,000 women will receive a diagnosis of, and more than 13,000 women will die from, ovarian cancer. As with any cancer, early diagnosis is key to successful treatment and long-term survival of ovarian cancer. The Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance reports that 46% of women with ovarian cancer survive five years past diagnosis. That number rises to 90% for those diagnosed in the earliest stages. Unfortunately, many of the symptoms of ovarian cancer and non specific and tend to go unnoticed or ignored, which is one of the reasons why ovarian cancer is known as the “silent killer,”
Irregular Menstrual Cycles
Some women have regular periods, they know what day their period will show up. Some others experience irregular periods throughout their reproductive years. Whichever side you’re on, if you start to experience sudden, drastic changes in the frequency, duration, heaviness, or timing of your monthly visitor, you should take notice and see a doctor about it as soon as possible. It may not be a sign of cancer, it may be nothing to worry about or it may be a sign of something else going on in the reproductive system.
Abdominal Pain or Cramping
This is one very non specific warning sign of ovarian cancer because it is something many women may already experience on a regular basis. Many women suffer painful periods and cramping throughout their reproductive years. However, changes in the frequency, pain level, and severity may be a sign that something new is going on. Don’t be afraid to contact your physician if you notice unusual symptoms of pain or cramping.
Constipation, Nausea, or Vomiting
Tumors in the abdominal and pelvic regions, tend to affect the digestive system. Constipation, nausea, and vomiting are symptoms generally associated with many diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal system. It can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of these symptoms.The ovaries are located in the lower abdomen and is close to other abdominal organs and so cancer with the ovaries may present with gastrointestinal symptoms. Therefore, it is best to contact your doctor if you experience frequent, unexplained symptoms of stomach distress or gastrointestinal issues.
Feeling Unusually Full
Symptoms of earlier satiety/uncomfortable fullness after eating small amounts of food may be an indication of ovarian cancer. A loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss is another possible warning sign of cancer in general, including ovarian cancer.
Frequent Urination
The ovaries are attached to the uterus, which lies close the the bladder and ureters which produce and carry urine out of the body. When they ovaries are enlarged, they may cause irritation of the bladder, or their increased size can cause a mass effect which may lead to frequent urination. . Other conditions that trigger frequent trips to the restroom include diabetes, a kidney or urinary tract infection, bladder stones, and vaginal inflammation. If you are constantly excusing yourself to use the bathroom or wake several times in the night to empty your bladder, inform your physician.
Painful Intercourse
If an ovarian tumor is pressing against the vagina, sex may cause pain and discomfort. Pressure and irritation in the pelvic area, can trigger ovarian cancer-related pain during sex.If you notice sudden dryness, irritation, or pain that interfere with sexual enjoyment, make sure to phone your doctor. When these symptoms are provoked by ovarian cancer, they are usually more severe and persistent than when caused by other disorders.
Easily Tiring and Extreme Fatigue
One of the first signs your body is at war may be extreme fatigue and excessive tiredness. This is because your immune system has already been at work trying to fight off this unwanted intruder.
If, despite adequate amounts of rest, you are chronically tired, get yourself to the doctor for a checkup. Finding yourself unable to complete normal daily tasks or finding it too exhausting to get out of bed in the morning are red flags that something serious is wrong.This may just be due to anemia which may be treated successfully with iron supplements, or it may be something worse like cancer, either may, make sure to get checked out by a doctor.
Changes in Hair Growth
Hirsutism refers to the growth of coarse, dark hairs on the face or body. Some women start to notice that they have more facial hair than some of their friends and this becomes normal for them. However if you never used to experience unwanted body hair, and then suddenly start to have them, it may be a sign of hormone disorders and the ovary is one such organ that can produce these hormones. Other causes could be adrenal gland tumors, Cushing syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and hyperthecosis. Rather than trying to shave away the problem, check with your physician to get to the root of the problem. Conversely, some women notice a loss of hair due to the hormonal effects of ovarian cancer.
Bloating
A stomach that is bloated, distended, or has suddenly swelled may indicate ovarian cancer.It is often one of the first signs of ovarian cancer. Many women typically notice bloating around the time of their period. However, if bloating is a new symptom or is accompanied by a noticeably enlarged abdomen, it is critical to seek medical advice. Cancer-related bloating may not respond to normal lifestyle changes such as increasing water consumption, giving up carbonated beverages, or limiting salt intake. Another thing is the fact that ovarian cancer commonly metastasizes to the liver and also causes a build up of fluid in the abdomen known as ascites. All these cause the abdomen to swell.
Ovarian tumors are often not detectable in the early stages, so they may not be picked up with only physical examination even if done regularly. This makes it critically important to pay attention to the clues your body sends you that something has gone wrong. And seek help to find the right answers.
