Detecting ovarian cancer

No single symptom or routine test can establish ovarian cancer on its own. A clinician interprets the pattern of findings together and may refer you to a gynaecological cancer specialist when the results need further investigation.

Ovarian cancer can present with persistent abdominal swelling or bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, feeling full sooner than usual, or changes in urinary or bowel habits. These symptoms also occur with many non-cancerous conditions, so persistence, change from your normal pattern and the combination of symptoms guide assessment.

Ultrasound can show the ovaries and describe a mass, while blood tests may measure markers that can rise for several reasons. An abnormal marker or scan is not itself a cancer diagnosis. If surgery or biopsy provides tissue, a pathologist examines it to determine whether cancer is present and what type it is.

Arrange a medical assessment if symptoms are new, persistent or becoming more troublesome. Before the appointment, note when each symptom began, how often it occurs, whether eating affects it, any bleeding, and your personal or family history of ovarian, breast, pancreatic or prostate cancer.

If testing finds an ovarian mass, ask who will review the images and whether specialist referral should occur before an operation. Genetic counselling or testing may be discussed when personal or family history suggests an inherited cancer risk.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden severe abdominal or pelvic pain, fainting, marked weakness, difficulty breathing, uncontrolled vomiting, or heavy vaginal bleeding. These features can signal an acute problem and need prompt assessment regardless of whether cancer is suspected.

Ask what each test can and cannot show, whether the scan needs specialist review, what could explain the findings besides cancer, and how a diagnosis would be confirmed. You can also ask whether your family history supports genetic counselling and who will coordinate follow-up.