Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer

Main Category: Ovarian Cancer
Article Date: 24 Jul 2004 - 18:00 PDT

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Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect, especially, in the early stages. This is partly due to the fact that these two small, almond shaped organs are deep within the abdominal cavity, one on each side of the uterus. These are some of the potential signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer:

-- Unexplained change in bowel and/or bladder habits such as constipation urinary frequency, and/or incontinence

-- Gastrointestinal upset such as gas, indigestion, and/or nausea

-- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain

-- Pelvic and/or abdominal pain or discomfort

-- Pelvic and/or abdominal bloating or swelling

-- A constant feeling of fullness

-- Fatigue

-- Abnormal or postmenopausal bleeding

-- Pain during intercourse

Persistence of Symptoms

When the symptoms are persistent, when they do not resolve with normal interventions (like diet change, exercise, laxatives, rest) it is imperative for a woman to see her doctor. Persistence of symptoms is key.

Because these signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer have been described as vague or silent, only around 10% of ovarian cancer is found in the early stages. Symptoms typically occur in advanced stages when tumor growth creates pressure on the bladder and rectum, and fluid begins to form.

For more information go to
http://www.ovarian.org/pages.asp?page=symptoms