Cancer Knowledgebase
Keyword Search Advanced Search Print this Page Send to a Friend
Specific Cancers: Ovarian Cancer
Overview

What Are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer often causes vague symptoms. When a doctor diagnoses ovarian cancer, the cancer may have spread outside the ovaries. Then, it’s harder to treat. These are the symptoms that occur when they do develop.

  • Indigestion, heartburn, nausea, or gas

  • Abdominal swelling or discomfort

  • Pelvic pain or cramping

  • Bloating or a sense of fullness, even after eating small meals

  • Backache

  • Painful, frequent, or burning urination with no infection

  • Diarrhea or constipation

  • Fatigue

  • Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss or gain

  • Shortness of breath

  • Vaginal bleeding (rare) or irregular periods

  • Pain during intercourse

These symptoms may be caused by ovarian cancer or by other, less serious conditions. It’s important to check with a doctor to be sure.

Online Medical Reviewer: Herzog, Thomas J. MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Martin, Virginia A. RN, MSN, AOCN
Date Last Reviewed: 2/6/2006
Date Last Modified: 4/20/2006
Not what you were looking for? Explore FACING CANCER or choose a different specific cancer.