SYMPTOMS & DETECTIONWHAT EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW

What are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?

• Bloating
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
• Needing to urinate often or urgently

Several other symptoms have been commonly reported and they include fatigue, indigestion, back pain, pain with intercourse, constipation or diarrhea, menstrual irregularities, weight gain or loss, and shortness of breath. Having these symptoms does not mean that you have ovarian cancer.  if these symptoms are new for you, occur more than 12 times a month and/or don't dissipate when changing the environment through diet or exercise, then you should see your doctor.  Many women have no symptoms of ovarian cancer, but detect a tumor through a pelvic exam or ultrasounds done for another reason. 

How is ovarian cancer detected?

Currently, there is no screening test for ovarian cancer. If you have symptoms concerning for potential ovarian cancer, your doctor may perform a pelvic exam or obtain images of the ovaries using a transvaginal ultrasound. If a growth is found on the ovaries, a test for CA 125 may be done.

CA 125 is an ovarian cancer "tumor marker" that could be elevated if an epithelial ovarian cancer is present. There are different tumor markers for different types of ovarian cancer. However, CA 125 can be elevated due to other conditions such as pregnancy and endometriosis. Making the diagnosis of ovarian cancer after a tumor has been found may involve procedures such as surgery or biopsy. The surgery is done to determine whether cancer is present, and if it is, remove it at the same time. Learn more about ovarian cancer surgery in our treatment module here.

Women who are considered high risk for ovarian cancer are referred to a genetic counselor for specialized genetic testing. Testing for ovarian cancer is not recommended for women who do not have symptoms and are not at high risk based on their family history.

Listen to a Podcast about the Symptoms and Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer

The Cancer Prevention and Control Section at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Service ("MDHHS") has launched a new Podcast about the Symptoms and Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer where you will hear from both patients and doctors. Listen to this Podcast Here.