They’re often subtle at first, which is why paying attention to persistent, unusual changes is important.
🔴 Common Early Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
These symptoms can be vague, but the key is that they are new, frequent (more than 12 times/month), and persistent (lasting more than a few weeks):
1. Bloating
Not just occasional—daily or near-daily abdominal swelling that doesn’t go away.
2. Pelvic or Abdominal Pain
New, ongoing discomfort or pressure in the lower belly or pelvis.
3. Feeling Full Quickly / Difficulty Eating
Loss of appetite, getting unusually full after only a few bites.
4. Urinary Symptoms
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Needing to pee urgently
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Needing to pee more often
(without a bladder infection)
🟡 Other Possible Symptoms
These can happen for many reasons, but can also be linked to ovarian cancer:
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Unexplained weight loss or weight gain (especially abdominal)
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Back pain (lower back)
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Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
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Fatigue that doesn’t improve
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Menstrual changes (irregular bleeding, heavier or lighter periods)
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Pain during intercourse
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Abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup
🔵 Late Symptoms (often more obvious)
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Noticeably enlarged abdomen
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Shortness of breath (from fluid around the lungs)
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Severe abdominal pain
⚠️ When to See a Doctor
Seek medical evaluation if you have:
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Any of the main symptoms (bloating, pelvic pain, eating changes, urinary issues)
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That occur more than 12 times a month,
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And last more than 2–3 weeks.
These symptoms don’t automatically mean cancer—many common conditions (IBS, perimenopause, ovarian cysts) can mimic them—but it’s important to rule out serious causes.
🧬 Higher-Risk Groups
You may need earlier evaluation if you have:
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Family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
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BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations
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Age over 50
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Endometriosis
If you want, I can also provide:
✅ A symptom checklist
✅ When symptoms suggest something other than ovarian cancer
✅ The next steps a doctor typically recommends (tests, imaging, blood work)
Just tell me what you’d like.
