Ovarian cancer can be hard to recognize early. Its symptoms can be subtle and may seem like everyday digestive or menstrual issues. But when something is new, unusual or keeps coming back, it’s worth paying attention to.
Know the signs
One symptom that may be easy to overlook is feeling full quickly, even after eating a small meal. Other possible warning signs include:
- Bloating or swelling in the abdomen
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Back pain
- Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
- Needing to urinate more often or more urgently
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or changes in your menstrual cycle
- Feeling tired or lacking energy
- Changes in appetite or difficulty eating
These symptoms can have many causes and don't necessarily mean someone has ovarian cancer. The important thing is to notice when a symptom is new for you, happens often or doesn't go away.
Don't brush off changes
There is no reliable routine screening test for ovarian cancer for women who don't have symptoms and aren't at high risk. That makes awareness especially important.
If you're experiencing symptoms that are unusual for you or aren't going away, talk with your healthcare provider. It can be helpful to keep track of what you're experiencing, how often it happens and how long it's been going on.
You know your body best. If something doesn't feel right, it's okay to ask about it.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that sometimes the little things are worth noticing. These changes may be caused by something other than ovarian cancer, but they shouldn't automatically be brushed aside.