Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer in its early stages often does not cause any symptoms at all. When symptoms do start, they are often vague and easily mistaken for more common illnesses.
Often these symptoms can be caused by other less serious health problems, not cancer. Testing is needed to make a diagnosis.
Ovarian cancer, in its early stages, may cause:
- abdominal discomfort, pressure or pain
- abdominal swelling
- change in bowel habits
- feeling full after a light meal
- indigestion
- gas
- upset stomach
- feeling that the bowel has not completely emptied
- nausea
- fatigue
- pain in lower back or leg
- more frequent or urgent urination
- abnormal vaginal bleeding
- menstrual disorders
- pain during intercourse
If these symptoms increase in intensity or severity or last longer than 2 to 3 weeks, you should contact your doctor.
Last modified on:
02 April 2012
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