The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be similar to other common conditions. This can make it difficult to diagnose early.
Symptoms are more likely to develop as the cancer grows and may include:
- pressure, pain or discomfort in the abdomen or pelvis
- a swollen or bloated abdomen
- appetite changes (e.g. not feeling like eating, feeling full quickly)
- changes in toilet habits (e.g. constipation, diarrhoea, passing urine more often, increased wind)
- indigestion and feeling sick (nausea)
- feeling very tired
- unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- changes to periods such as heavy or irregular bleeding, or vaginal bleeding after menopause
- pain when having sex.
If you have any of these symptoms and they are new for you, are severe or continue for more than 2–3 weeks, it is best to have a check-up. Keep a note of how often the symptoms occur and make an appointment to see your general practitioner (GP).
Ovarian Cancer Australia has produced a downloadable symptom diary. You can also use it to record your symptoms and help talk about your concerns with your doctor.
Being diagnosed with cancer can be emotionally challenging. You may want to talk to a social worker or psychologist or call Cancer Council on 13 11 20.
The only symptoms I experienced were an intermittent backache, which worsened in severity and some stomach cramping. It was a dull ache at first, and I’d been gardening a lot so I initially thought I must have hurt my back.
Read more about Chris’s experience of ovarian cancer
For an overview of what to expect during all stages of your cancer care, visit Ovarian cancer – your guide to best cancer care. This is a short guide to what is recommended, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.
→ READ MORE: Diagnosing ovarian cancer
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Dr Antonia Jones, Gynaecological Oncologist, The Royal Women’s Hospital and Mercy Hospital for Women, VIC; Dr George Au-Yeung, Medical Oncologist, Peter MacCallum Centre, VIC; Dr David Chang, Radiation Oncologist, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, VIC; Prof Anna DeFazio AM, Sydney West Chair of Translational Cancer Research, The University of Sydney, Director, Centre for Cancer Research, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research and Director, Sydney Cancer Partners, NSW; Ian Dennis. Consumer (Carer); A/Prof Simon Hyde, Head of Gynaecological Oncology, Mercy Hospital for Women, VIC; Carmel McCarthy, Consumer; Quintina Reyes, Clinical Nurse Consultant – Gynaecological Oncology, Westmead Hospital, NSW; Deb Roffe, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council SA.
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