Ovarian cancer and pelvic pain

Ovarian cancer can cause a dull ache, pressure, heaviness or sharper discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis. Pain may result from a growing mass pressing on nearby organs, irritation of surrounding tissue, or fluid and tumour deposits on the abdominal lining. Some people notice pain during sex, while others notice back pain, fullness or a change in bowel or bladder habits.

The pattern matters. Tell your clinician where the pain is, when it began, whether it is constant or comes and goes, and whether movement, meals, periods or urination affect it. Pelvic pain does not by itself diagnose ovarian cancer; cysts, endometriosis, infection, bowel conditions and urinary problems can produce similar symptoms.

Keep a brief pain diary with location, severity in your own words, triggers and associated symptoms. A clinician may perform an abdominal and pelvic examination and arrange a pelvic ultrasound. Further imaging or tissue tests depend on the findings. If ovarian cancer is confirmed, genomic tumour profiling, surgery and chemotherapy may be discussed as part of an individual plan.

Seek same-day medical advice for new pain that is persistent, worsening or accompanied by abdominal swelling, early fullness, unusual bleeding, fever, vomiting or changes in bowel or bladder function. Go to urgent care for sudden severe pain, fainting, a rigid or very swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting or difficulty breathing.

What causes are you considering? Would a pelvic ultrasound help? Which changes should I track? What pain relief is suitable with my medicines? When should I return if the pain continues?