Ovarian cancer early detection: what to know

Ovarian cancer can cause symptoms such as ongoing bloating, pelvic or abdominal discomfort, feeling full quickly, urinary changes, or altered bowel habits. These symptoms also have many non-cancer causes, so a symptom alone cannot diagnose cancer. The useful clue is a change that is new for you, keeps returning, or does not settle.

A clinician may ask about your cycle, medicines, family history, previous operations, and the pattern of symptoms. Assessment can include an examination, blood tests, and imaging such as a Pelvic Ultrasound. Findings that look concerning may lead to further imaging or tissue testing.

Keep a brief record of when symptoms occur, their effect on eating or sleep, bleeding changes, and any weight or medication changes. Arrange a primary-care or gynaecology appointment when the pattern is persistent or unusual. Bring your family history, including ovarian or breast cancer in close relatives.

Ask what each proposed test can and cannot show. An ultrasound can describe the ovaries and nearby structures, but it does not by itself confirm cancer. If cancer is diagnosed, further testing helps identify its type and extent so treatment can be planned.

Seek prompt medical advice for persistent pelvic or abdominal symptoms, repeated bloating, unexplained loss of appetite, or bleeding after menopause. Seek urgent help for severe sudden pain, fainting, heavy bleeding with weakness, or repeated vomiting, especially if you cannot keep fluids down.

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