Ovarian cancer and a bloated stomach: what to know

Ovarian cancer may cause abdominal swelling, pressure, pelvic discomfort, changes in bowel habits, or feeling full sooner than expected. Bloating that is new, persistent, or increasingly frequent deserves an assessment, especially when it occurs with pelvic pain, urinary changes, appetite loss, or unexplained tiredness. These symptoms do not identify the cause on their own. A clinician considers your history, examination findings, menstrual or menopause status, and other possible explanations.

Arrange a medical appointment and record when the swelling appears, whether it changes after meals, and any associated bowel, urinary, or pelvic symptoms. The clinician may recommend examination and imaging such as a Pelvic Ultrasound. If a mass or cancer is confirmed, further testing can help determine its type and extent. Treatment plans may involve surgery, Chemotherapy, or other specialist care, depending on the findings.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a markedly swollen abdomen with inability to pass stool or gas, fainting, or breathing difficulty. Contact a clinician promptly for bloating that does not settle, keeps returning, or comes with pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, unexplained weight change, or reduced appetite.

Ask what causes are being considered, whether an examination or Pelvic Ultrasound is appropriate, which symptoms should prompt urgent contact, and how results would change the next step. If cancer is diagnosed, ask whether genetic or tumour testing could guide treatment and which support services are available.