Symptoms of ovarian cancer after menopause

Ovarian cancer can affect the ovaries and nearby tissues, causing abdominal swelling, pressure, pain, altered bowel habits, reduced appetite, or tiredness. Symptoms may be subtle and overlap with digestive, urinary, or gynaecological conditions. Any vaginal bleeding after menopause is unexpected and should be checked; it does not by itself establish ovarian cancer. A clinician may ask how often symptoms occur, whether they are becoming more frequent, and whether there is a family history of ovarian or breast cancer.

Book a medical appointment for new, persistent, or recurring bloating, pelvic pain, early fullness, bowel or urinary changes, or any postmenopausal bleeding. Assessment may include an examination, blood tests, and pelvic ultrasound. If a concerning finding is confirmed, further imaging or tissue testing may be discussed. Treatment can include surgery such as oophorectomy or ovarian cancer debulking surgery, chemotherapy, and other options guided by the tumour’s features. BRCA genetic testing may be relevant when personal or family history suggests inherited risk.

Seek urgent help for severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, heavy bleeding, marked abdominal swelling with breathing difficulty, or inability to pass urine or stool. Arrange prompt review for any bleeding after menopause, even if it happens once, or for symptoms that are new and not settling. Keep a short symptom record to share at the appointment.

Ask which causes are being considered, whether a pelvic ultrasound is appropriate, what follow-up is needed, and when results should be reviewed. Ask whether family history changes genetic testing options and how to manage pain, appetite changes, or bowel symptoms while assessment continues.