Pelvic or Abdominal Pain: Persistent or frequent pelvic or abdominal pain, pressure, discomfort, or bloating that doesn't go away can be a warning sign of ovarian cancer. This pain may be vague, intermittent, or severe.
Difficulty Eating or Feeling Full Quickly: Difficulty eating, feeling full quickly, or experiencing changes in appetite, particularly if it's accompanied by abdominal discomfort or bloating, may indicate ovarian cancer. This symptom is often associated with the pressure of a growing tumor on the stomach or intestines.
Frequent or Urgent Urination: Changes in urinary habits, such as needing to urinate more frequently than usual, feeling an urgent need to urinate, or experiencing difficulty emptying the bladder completely, can be a warning sign of ovarian cancer. These symptoms may occur due to the pressure of a tumor on the bladder.
Changes in Bowel Habits: Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or changes in stool consistency, size, or shape, that persist for more than a few weeks may indicate ovarian cancer. These changes may occur due to the pressure of a tumor on the intestines.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss, especially if it's significant and occurs rapidly without changes in diet or physical activity, can be a warning sign of ovarian cancer. Weight loss may occur due to a combination of factors, including loss of appetite, changes in metabolism, and the presence of a tumor.
Fatigue: Persistent fatigue, weakness, or lack of energy that doesn't improve with rest can be a warning sign of ovarian cancer. Fatigue may occur due to factors such as anemia, hormonal changes, or the body's response to the presence of cancer.
Changes in Menstrual Cycle: Changes in menstrual cycle patterns, such as irregular periods, abnormal bleeding (including heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods), or postmenopausal bleeding, may be warning signs of ovarian cancer, particularly in women who have already gone through menopause.
Pain During Intercourse: Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia) that is new or persistent may indicate ovarian cancer, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms such as pelvic pain or bloating.