What should you know about recognising ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer can present with ongoing bloating, pelvic or abdominal discomfort, feeling full quickly, changes in urination or bowel habits, or unusual tiredness. These symptoms are common and may have non-cancer causes, so their presence does not establish a diagnosis. A clinician considers the pattern, duration, examination findings, medical history, and family history together.

A pelvic ultrasound can show the ovaries and nearby structures, but an image alone may not settle what a finding means. Further assessment may include blood tests, scans, or tissue examination. Genomic Tumour Profiling may be discussed after diagnosis to help characterise tumour biology and inform treatment choices.

Keep a symptom record covering bloating, pain, bleeding, appetite, bowel or bladder changes, and how these affect daily activities. Book a medical review for symptoms that are new, persistent, or getting worse. Ask what each proposed test can show and what it cannot show. If ovarian cancer is confirmed, the team may discuss surgery, chemotherapy, genetic testing, and supportive care according to the tumour and your health.

Seek urgent care for sudden severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, marked abdominal swelling, or inability to pass urine or stool. Arrange prompt review for unexpected vaginal bleeding, a new persistent pelvic mass sensation, or symptoms that are steadily worsening. Do not wait for a routine visit if pain or vomiting prevents drinking or normal activity.

Which symptoms need investigation first? Would a pelvic ultrasound help, and what follow-up would an abnormal result require? If cancer is diagnosed, should BRCA Genetic Testing or tumour profiling be considered? What are the aims and timing of surgery, chemotherapy, or supportive care?