Ovarian cancer often gets dubbed the “silent killer” due to its tendency to develop without causing noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, that doesn’t mean there are no warning signs altogether. By understanding your body and paying attention to its subtle messages, you can empower yourself to seek timely intervention and potentially improve your chances of successful treatment.

Here are 5 key signs that shouldn’t be ignored:

1. Persistent Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort: Feeling bloated occasionally is normal, especially around your period. But if you experience bloating that’s:

Constant: Lasting for weeks or even months at a time.
Severe: Causing discomfort, pressure, or pain in your abdomen.
Accompanied by swelling: Noticeably increasing the size of your belly.
It’s crucial to consult your doctor, as these could be signs of ovarian cancer or other underlying conditions.

2. Changes in Your Bathroom Habits: Frequent urination or a sudden urge to go, even when your bladder doesn’t feel full, could be a red flag. This is because ovarian tumors can press on your bladder, impacting its function. Additionally, changes in bowel habits, like constipation or diarrhea, can also be linked to ovarian cancer.

3. Feeling Full Quickly and Difficulty Eating: If you find yourself feeling full after eating small amounts or losing your appetite altogether, it might be a sign of ovarian cancer. The tumor’s growth can put pressure on your stomach, making it difficult to eat normally.

4. Unexpected Vaginal Bleeding or Discharge: While irregular bleeding can occur for various reasons, especially during perimenopause, any unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge outside your regular menstrual cycle warrants a doctor’s visit. This is especially true if the bleeding is heavy, persistent, or accompanied by pain.

5. Persistent Pelvic or Abdominal Pain: Pelvic or abdominal pain that’s persistent, dull, or aching, and doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers, could be a sign of ovarian cancer.

Reference : https://www.curiowhisper.com/2024/02/ovarian-cancer-early-warning-signs.html