OVARIAN CANCER SYMPTOMS
There is no test for ovarian cancer. So what are the symptoms?
Ovarian cancer is the deadliest female cancer and the ignored killer. Its symptoms aren’t well-defined, but that doesn’t mean they go unnoticed. Even in the early stages of the disease, 89% of women report symptoms prior to their ovarian cancer diagnosis.
Over 310,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer worldwide every year, 75% are diagnosed in the late stages when it is often too late. This is why an early detection test is so vital and so urgently needed.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF OVARIAN CANCER?
Any or all of these symptoms persistently experienced over a number of weeks could potentially be a symptom of ovarian cancer:
Abdominal bloating
Pelvic pain
Increased need to urinate
Feeling full quickly
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you should have them checked by your doctor. Keep in mind that these are non-specific and common to regular menstrual cycles or illnesses other than ovarian cancer.
The discernible difference with ovarian cancer is that the symptoms are more likely to persist over weeks, and not fluctuate like many women might experience with their monthly cycle.
It is also important to be your own advocate. If you sense something is not right, or feeling true to your body, ensure you persist until you are sure your concerns have been adequately addressed and you have an answer for the changes in your body.
HOW IS OVARIAN CANCER DIAGNOSED?
There is currently no early detection test for ovarian cancer.
At the moment, a referral from a GP is usually required to undergo further testing such as an X-ray, ultrasound or blood tests, but even then it is difficult to detect.
A common myth is that a Pap smear also screens for ovarian cancer. However, this is not the case.
In the absence of an early screening test, it is important that we know what the symptoms associated with ovarian cancer are.
Although the symptoms aren’t well-defined or could be considered 'normal', it doesn’t mean they go unnoticed. The important point to take away is: if you notice any changes that are persistent, seek medical advice if they continue, and demand to be heard.
HOW CAN WE EMPOWER OURSELVES?
"By educating themselves about their own body parts, and in particular menstrual and reproductive health. Talking openly and without shame with family, friends, colleagues and healthcare professionals about any symptoms or changes they notice. Being active in their health and not dismissing symptoms. Calling body parts by their actual names and encouraging others to do so. Lobbying politicians to increase funding for women’s health research. Encouraging business to provide philanthropic and strategic support for medical research. Using any platform available to increase awareness around ovarian cancer."
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