Ovarian cancer is a disease where some of the cells in one or both ovaries start to grow abnormally and develop into cancer. Only 31% of Australians know that ovarian cancer has the poorest survival rate of any female cancer in Australia. This devastating disease suffers from a lack of awareness and progress, we will continue to spread evidence based information every Australian should know about this disease.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
There is no early detection test for ovarian cancer, so all women need to be aware of the symptoms. The most commonly reported symptoms for ovarian cancer are:
- Increased abdominal size or persistent abdominal bloating
- Abdominal or pelvic (lower tummy) pain
- Feeling full after eating a small amount
- Needing to urinate often or urgently
Additional Symptoms
- Changes in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Excessive fatigue
- Lower back pain
- Indigestion or nausea
- Bleeding after menopause or in-between periods
- Pain during sex or bleeding after
It is important to remember all the symptoms mentioned can be caused by other, less serious medical conditions. However, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, which are persistent and troublesome, you should see your doctor. They will be able to examine you and if necessary, do further tests to find the cause of your problems.
Track your symptoms in Ovarian Cancer Australia’s symptom diary and bring this record with you to your doctor for a comprehensive check up. https://www.ovariancancer.net.au/page/134/signs-and-symptoms
You can also download our risk factor infographic.
https://ocaovariancanceraus.blob.core.windows.net/assets/contentpage_htmlcontent/A3_OCAM_RisksPoster.V2_PRINT%20(1).pdf
