Introduction to Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is a form of cancer that originates in the ovaries, which are reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs (ova) and hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. This cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the ovary begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, potentially spreading to surrounding tissues or other parts of the body. Because early-stage ovarian tumours are hard to feel and symptoms are often nonspecific, early detection is challenging. The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age, hormone replacement therapy and inherited genetic mutations. Diagnosis may involve clinical assessment, imaging, blood tests and biopsy. Treatment options depend on the cancer stage and type but generally include surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.

General Symptoms

Early ovarian cancer often causes no symptoms or only vague symptoms, so it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal bloating or swelling

• Pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort

• Feeling full quickly when eating

• Loss of appetite or weight loss without a clear reason

• Changes in bowel habits (such as constipation)

• Increased urgency or frequency of urination

• Fatigue and back pain

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause

Additional Sources of Information

Stat Pearls Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK567760/

Cancer Research UK: What is ovarian cancer? https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/ovarian-cancer/what-is-ovarian-cancer

Cancer Research UK: Diagnosis. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/ovarian-cancer/getting-diagnosed/tests-ovarian-cancer

American Cancer Society: Ovarian Cancer Early Detection, Diagnosis https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/ovarian-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging.html

Mayo Clinic: Ovarian Cancer Symptoms https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20375941