In the US, ovarian cancer is the fourth major cause of death from cancer for women and affects 1 in 57 women. The disease can be successfully treated, like most other cancers, if detected early on. Unfortunately, it is currently estimated that only around 24% of ovarian cancer cases are detected early on, resulting in lower survival rates. Hence, it is essential for women to be aware and watch for early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

To help people recognize the signs of ovarian cancer, the American Cancer Society in 2007,  published some guidelines. Early symptoms of ovarian cancer can be bloating, gas, a “full” feeling, tiredness, irregular periods, abdominal or pelvic pain, and intense or frequent urination. Having a hard time eating or feeling full too early after beginning to eat are also signs of the presence of ovarian cancer.

It is often difficult to detect ovarian cancer as no reliable medical screening currently exists that can provide an early check. Women at risk of having ovarian cancer should stay aware of possible early symptoms of ovarian cancer so that it could be diagnosed immediately. Although early symptoms of ovarian cancer, which can include menstrual irregularities or pelvic pain, do not definitely point to cancer, women should learn to recognize these symptoms early.

Any early symptoms of ovarian cancer should be followed up with a visit with your doctor, who may then also recommend a bimanual pelvic examination, transvaginal ultrasound, and Ca125 blood test.  Some risk factors for ovarian cancer include having the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations, not having used birth control pills, never having been pregnant, or being diagnosed with breast cancer before 50 years of age.

Some women have higher risks of contracting ovarian cancer. Among the classes of women at elevated risk are Ashkenazi Jews, women with at least two relatives diagnosed with ovarian cancer, those exposed to fertility drugs, and those over 50 years of age.  For these women, it is even more important to be monitored regularly for early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

Regular gynecology checkups are vital for every woman. Some symptoms are common to many conditions and illnesses. If the symptoms persist for longer than two to three weeks, a medical advice is highly recommended. For instance, many of the same early signs of ovarian cancer are similar to those experienced with ovarian cysts or irritable bowel syndrome. To be sure, visit your doctor for a thorough checkup and follow up.

It is very important for women to know the early symptoms of ovarian cancer, in order to stop this deadly disease in its tracks. Since more than 6% of cancer deaths in women are a result of ovarian cancer, women and their doctors must remain vigilant at all times.