What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a medical condition in which cancerous cells are located within, around or outside the ovaries. The ovaries are two almond-shaped organs that can be found on both sides of the uterus. They store eggs and produce progesterone and estrogen, two important hormones for reproductive health.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?
It’s not always easy to detect ovarian cancer in its early stages because of the location of the ovaries. That’s why it’s sometimes called the most deadly type of reproductive cancer.
Ovarian cancer is usually detected at the advanced stages because the ovaries are embedded deep in the abdomen. It’s when the tumor can no longer hide that most patients begin to notice the signs of ovarian cancer.
However, to increase the chances of survival, knowing the early signs of this disease is vital. If you notice any of these signs, contact us at Hamilton Health or visit your gynecologist.
1. Bleeding
Irregular bleeding is a common sign of ovarian stromal tumors, which a small number of people with ovarian cancer have. The tumor can cause bleeding that looks what you see during your period. This can even occur after menopause. Bleeding may happen in two-week intervals or more frequently.
2. Bloating and Indigestion
The presence of a cancerous tumor can cause fluid to build up in the abdomen. This could feel like bloating or the weight gain that follows pregnancy. However, when the bloating refuses to subside even after changing your diet, you need to see a gynecologist promptly.
Also, an ovarian cancer diagnosis could be preceded by indigestion and heartburn. This is a common symptom that is linked with general abdominal discomfort.
3. Feeling Full Quickly
Due to the buildup of fluid in the abdomen, people who have ovarian cancer will start feeling full quickly. This increased satiety is also linked with bloating, and it may also lead to a loss of appetite.
4. Menstrual Cramps
At the early stages of this disease, one could have a feeling similar to menstrual cramps. Unfortunately, this sign is commonly ignored by women whose menstrual cycle has been linked with uncomfortable cramps. Tumors growing in the pelvis can result in pain at the base of the abdomen. But since the pain is similar to menstrual cramps, women can easily ignore this sign of ovarian cancer.
5. Lower Back Pain
Severe lower back pain is also associated with ovarian cancer. Just before diagnosis, many women have complained of having back pain that persists throughout the day and interferes with their sleep. This is usually caused by the fluid that collects in the pelvis and causes irritation in the tissues of the lower back.
6. Frequent Urge to Urinate
Having the urge to pee every 30 minutes with very little or no urine coming out is a sign that you need to be checked for ovarian cancer. This increased urge to visit the bathroom may occur because cancer cells start putting pressure on the bladder.
Speak With a Gynecologist Today
To learn more about ovarian cancer causes or signs, call us now and speak to one of our gynecologists. At Hamilton Health, we offer the best gynecological care for women from all backgrounds. You can walk into our federally qualified health center today and we’ll attend to you. We run a family-centered health center and we treat you when others won’t because we’re committed to making it “your home for health.”
Health Care Resources for Women
- Women’s Health (Gynecology, Annual Exams, Family Planning, and More)
- Healthy Start
- WIC