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Ovarian cancer used to be considered a "silent killer." Symptoms were thought to appear only when the cancer was in an advanced stage. Now, doctors know this is not true. Even early-stage ovarian cancer can produce symptoms.
The Gynecologic Cancer Foundation, the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists, and the American Cancer Society recommend that if you have the following symptoms on a daily basis for more than a few weeks, you should see your doctor (preferably a gynecologist):
Ovarian cancer grows quickly and can progress from early to advanced stages within a year. Paying attention to symptoms can help improve a woman's chances of being diagnosed and treated promptly. Detecting cancer while it is still in its earliest stages can help improve prognosis. Even a few months delay in detection may affect survival.
It should be understood, however, that these symptoms commonly occur and are not overly specific for ovarian cancer. While prompt follow-up with your doctor is important when one or more of these are present, there are many other explanations for these symptoms besides ovarian cancer.
Other symptoms are also sometimes associated with ovarian cancer. These symptoms include fatigue, indigestion, back pain, pain during intercourse, constipation, and menstrual irregularities. However, these symptoms are not as useful in diagnosing ovarian cancer, because they are also commonly experienced by women who do not have cancer.
Based on the symptoms and physical examination, the doctor may order pelvic imaging tests or a CA-125 blood test. If these tests reveal signs of cancer, patients should be referred to a gynecologic oncologist who specializes in female reproductive system cancers.
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