Ovarian Cancer

Symptoms

Ovarian cancer does not cause many symptoms in its early stages. This is why most cases are not found until the cancer has spread.⁴ Most women do have symptoms in the 6 to 12 months before ovarian cancer is found. Symptoms that occur in later stages are most likely caused by the pressure of the growing cancer. Symptoms include:

• Ongoing cramps or pain in your belly.
• Ongoing pain in your pelvis or lower back.
• Abnormal bleeding from your vagina, especially after menopause if you are not using any hormonal medicines.
• Abnormal discharge from your vagina, containing mucus that may be tinged with blood.
• Pain or bleeding during sex.
• Nausea or loss of appetite, or you cannot eat normally.
• Ongoing bloating or intestinal gas that is not relieved by home treatment measures.
• Bigger belly size or a lump that can be felt in your belly.
• Decreased energy level.
• A change in your bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea.
• A change in your bladder habits, such as urinary frequency or urgency.
• Weight loss.

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Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH	Last Updated: July 10, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Ross Berkowitz, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
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