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