Ovarian cancer affects thousands of women in the UK each year and is known as the ‘silent killer’ because its symptoms can be hard to spot until it’s in the latter stages
More than 7,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the UK each year.
The disease is often referred to as the ‘silent killer’ because there may be no noticeable signs in the early stages, meaning by the time it is diagnosed later on it can be harder to treat. According to Target Ovarian cancer, almost half of GPs (46%) mistakenly believe that symptoms are only present in the later stages of this type of cancer.
While at the moment, there is no national screening programme for ovarian cancer as there isn’t a reliable test available to identify it at an early stage. However, if it is diagnosed at the earliest stage possible then nine in 10 women will survive, making awareness of any symptom vital to know about. With this in mind, below are six potential signs of ovarian cancer highlighted by Medical News Today, ranging from stomach aches to changes in bathroom habits. Also included is when exactly you should go to your GP if you feel you have any possible symptoms.
Six silent signs to watch out for
Regular stomach bloating
Bloating is the most commonly reported symptom in people with ovarian cancer. However, occasional bloating is common, in particular before and at the start of periods or after eating a big meal. Women also notice bloating when wearing fitted clothing or during pregnancy.
The most common route of the spread of ovarian cancer is through the peritoneal cavity – the space inside the abdomen that contains the intestines, stomach and liver. This may cause fluid buildup inside the stomach as the cancer spreads to the lining of the abdomen, known as the peritoneum. Bloating can also occur when cancer cells block lymph drainage and stop fluid in the peritoneum from being reabsorbed.
Pelvic or stomach pain, cramping or pressure
In a 2020 study, however, abdominal or pelvic pain and discomfort was the most commonly reported symptom of ovarian cancer, which was followed by bloating. Some women say they feel a cramping pain similar to menstrual cramps, while others feel squeezing, pressure-like pain. The discomfort can either be felt all over the pelvis or just be limited to one side only.
Feeling full from a light meal
The fluid buildup in the peritoneum that causes bloating can put pressure on the stomach and make a person feel full all the time or after consuming just a light meal. This can also lead to a lack of appetite and problems with eating.
Urinary issues
The ovaries are close to the bladder and any changes to them can have an adverse affect on the bladder and urinary tract. For example, a tumor getting bigger may press on the bladder and cause issues. Common urinary symptoms associated with ovarian cancer include frequent weeing, urine leaks, strong sense of urgency to wee or pain or a feeling of pressure in the bladder.
Menstrual changes
Bleeding or spotting between periods or vaginal bleeding after menopause is one of the less common symptom. Discharges that are not common for a woman can also be a sign of ovarian cancer. Changes can include missing a period or having heavier bleeding than usual but it should be noted that other common causes for menstrual changes also include pregnancy, stress, low body weight and hormonal imbalances.
Bathroom habit changes
Aside from bloating and abdominal pain, other gastrointestinal symptoms may be a sign of ovarian cancer. One in five people report changes in bowel habits, for example, while a growing tumor may place pressure on the intestines, causing changes in bowel habits, indigestion, constipation and diarrhea.
When to see a doctor
Aside from these six potential symptoms, other signs that can also indicate ovarian cancer include tiredness, back pain, painful sex or bleeding after sex and weight loss or weight gain. While most of the early symptoms of ovarian cancer have noncancerous causes, it is advisable not to ignore them and speak to a GP if symptoms seem unusual, persist for several weeks or become troublesome for you.
Dr Frankie Jackson-Spencer, a clinical research fellow in genitourinary oncology, noted: “Ovarian cancer often goes undiagnosed until it reaches the late stage due to its symptoms being vague and often overlapping with common/less serious conditions. Unlike cervical and breast cancer there aren’t robust screening tests for ovarian cancer.
“So it’s important to get any symptoms checked out by a doctor. Your GP might want to do a blood test, internal examination or refer you for an ultrasound scan,” before adding: “If caught early, ovarian cancer can be less serious, that’s why it’s super important to arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible.”
