Does ovarian cancer cause persistent abdominal pain?

Ovarian cancer may irritate or put pressure on tissues in the abdomen, and fluid build-up can add to discomfort. Pain can occur with bloating, changes in bowel or urinary habits, altered appetite or pelvic symptoms. Persistent abdominal pain is not a diagnosis by itself: constipation, infection, digestive disorders, abdominal wall strain and other conditions may also be responsible.

Arrange a review if pain lasts, keeps returning, changes character or interferes with sleep, work or eating. Before the appointment, note its location, severity, timing, triggers, relation to meals or bowel movements, and any bleeding, fever or swelling. The clinician can use this history and an examination to choose the next step.

Seek emergency care for sudden severe pain, a rigid or very tender abdomen, repeated vomiting, fainting, blood in vomit or stool, or difficulty breathing. Prompt help is also needed when pain rapidly worsens or prevents fluids from staying down.

Ask which causes fit the pattern of your pain, whether abdominal or pelvic examination is needed, what tests could clarify it, and which warning signs should change the urgency of follow-up.