Ovarian Cancer Signs: Early Symptoms Women Should Know

Ovarian cancer acts as a silent threat, as the early signs are subtle, vague, and easily mistaken for routine digestive or menstrual issues. Many women ignore the warning signs until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. 

This article aims to bring awareness to the early symptoms of ovarian cancer, explore its risk factors, and share preventive tips. If you’ve ever felt “off” for weeks without knowing why, this guide will help you better understand what your body might be trying to tell you. 

Early Signs of Ovarian Cancer 

Most early symptoms of ovarian cancer are confusing and overlap with common issues like indigestion, hormonal changes, or menstrual discomfort. But it’s the symptoms’ persistence, frequency, and lack of response to usual remedies that set them apart. Some of the common signs include: 

• Persistent bloating that lasts for weeks. 
• Feeling full quickly even after small meals. 
• Pelvic pain or pressure unrelated to menstrual cramps. 
• Unexplained weight loss without diet or activity changes. 
• Fatigue that doesn't improve with rest. 
• Lower back pain without a musculoskeletal cause. 
• Frequent urination or sudden urgency without a UTI. 
• Constipation or ongoing changes in bowel habits. 
• Constant indigestion or heartburn that lingers even after medication.  
• Menstrual irregularities like spotting or heavy periods. 
• Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia). 
• Loss of appetite or food aversion. 
• Abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup (ascites). 

Many women misunderstand these signs for stress, age, or diet. But if these symptoms continue for more than two weeks, you must see a gynec oncologist 

Causes and Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer 

There’s rarely a single cause behind ovarian cancer. It arises from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Some of the common risk factors include: 

• Age is an important factor. Most diagnoses occur after age 50. 
• Family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer. 
• Hormone replacement therapy post-menopause. 
• Never been pregnant, as full-term pregnancies reduce risk. 
• Obesity and high-fat diets. 
• Use of fertility drugs over prolonged periods. 
• History of breast cancer 
• Inherited cancer syndromes Genetic mutations (especially in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes), Lynch syndrome 

Types of Ovarian Cancer 

Ovarian cancer is not a single disease. There are several types of ovarian cancer based on the kinds of cells involved. Understanding the type helps doctors determine treatment plans and prognosis. 

1. Epithelial Tumours 

The most common type. They arise from the surface layer of the ovary. Subtypes include: 

• Serous carcinoma 
• Mucinous carcinoma 
• Endometrioid carcinoma 
• Clear cell carcinoma 

Each subtype has unique behaviours and treatment responses. 

2. Stromal Tumours 

These develop from connective tissues that produce hormones. They are present early due to hormone-related symptoms (e.g., abnormal bleeding). 

3. Germ Cell Tumours 

These originate in egg-producing cells and are more common in younger women. They are often detected earlier and tend to respond well to treatment. 

How to Prevent Ovarian Cancer? 

There is no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cancer, but you can reduce your risk with certain lifestyle changes and medical precautions: 

• Taking birth control pills for 5+ years can reduce the risk by almost 50%. However, it is crucial to discuss side effects with your doctor. 
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding suppress ovulation, offering protection. 
• Tubal ligation or fallopian tube removal (for high-risk women). 
• Maintaining a healthy BMI as obesity increases the risk of several cancers. 
• Regular pelvic exams may not catch cancer early, but they can detect masses. 
• Avoid unnecessary hormone replacement therapy. 
• Know your family history and consider genetic counselling if needed. 

If you carry BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, your doctor will discuss risk-reducing surgery or enhanced surveillance. 

Questions to Ask Your Doctor for Ovarian Cancer 

Whether you're seeking clarity after a diagnosis or just staying proactive, asking the right questions can guide better decision-making. Here are a few questions to consider: 

• What stage is it, and what does that mean for my treatment plan? 
• What are my treatment options—and how will they affect my daily life? 
• Will treatment affect my fertility or hormonal health? 
• Should I consider genetic testing for myself or my family? 
• What kind of follow-up tests or scans will I need? 
• How will we monitor for recurrence after treatment? 
• Can I live a long life with ovarian cancer? 

Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask what feels like a basic question. Your doctor must know all the aspects of your condition. 

Conclusion 

Ovarian cancer often starts with quiet and missed signs like bloating, pelvic discomfort, or unusual bleeding. But these early symptoms matter. 

If something doesn’t feel right and the symptoms are consistent, don't ignore it. The earlier ovarian cancer is found, the better the chances of successful treatment. 

At Hinduja Hospital, Khar, our gynec cancer specialists ( gynec oncologist) team is here to help. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or just want to understand your risk, book a consultation for expert, personalised care.