What to know about ovarian cancer in women

Ovarian cancer can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or nearby lining tissues. Common presentations include ongoing bloating, pelvic or abdominal discomfort, feeling full quickly, or changes in urinary or bowel habits. These symptoms also occur with many non-cancer conditions, but a persistent or changing pattern deserves review. Assessment may include a pelvic examination, ultrasound or other imaging, blood tests, and tissue sampling when needed. The diagnosis and extent of disease guide treatment choices.

Arrange an appointment if symptoms keep returning or interfere with normal activities. Record when they occur, any relation to meals or menstrual cycles, bleeding changes, medicines, and family history of ovarian or breast cancer. If cancer is diagnosed, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted medicines, or combinations of these. Ask about fertility, menopause symptoms, nutrition, pain relief, and emotional support. A gynaecological oncology team can explain each option.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden severe abdominal or pelvic pain, fainting, repeated vomiting, marked abdominal swelling, difficulty breathing, heavy unexpected bleeding, or inability to keep fluids down. These signs can have several causes, but they require prompt assessment. If you are receiving cancer treatment, follow the team's emergency instructions for fever or sudden worsening.

Ask which tests are needed, what the findings show, whether a specialist review is appropriate, and what treatment aims to address. Ask about surgery, medicine side effects, genetic or family-history assessment, fertility, menopause care, follow-up, and symptoms that should prompt an urgent call.