When ovarian cancer first develops, it may not cause any noticeable symptoms. When symptoms of ovarian cancer do occur, they are usually attributed to other, more common conditions.
Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer may include back pain.
The Mayo Clinic explains that doctors know that ovarian cancer begins when cells in or near the ovaries develop changes in their DNA.
He explains: «The changes tell the cells to grow and multiply rapidly, creating a mass (tumor) of cancer cells.»
Ovarian cancer, or cancer of the ovaries, is one of the most common types of cancer in women.
Needing to urinate more urgently or more often than usual is a possible sign of ovarian cancer, according to Target Ovarian Cancer.
Persistent bloating, feeling full quickly, loss of appetite, and pelvic or abdominal pain are also signs to watch out for.
Occasionally there may be other symptoms. These include changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, as well as feeling very tired.
Some people will experience explained weight loss, which is also associated with ovarian cancer.
“Any bleeding after menopause should always be investigated by a GP”add the site of Target Ovarian Cancer.
Ovarian cancer mainly affects women who have gone through menopause, but it can also affect younger women.
What to do when there is suspicion of ovarian cancer?
Specialists recommend that you see a GP if you have been feeling bloated, particularly more than 12 times a month.
If you have other symptoms of ovarian cancer that do not go away, you should also see a GP.
The NHS adds that if you have a family history of ovarian cancer and are concerned you may be at increased risk of getting it, you should also seek the advice of your GP.
Because many of these symptoms mimic other disorders, it’s also important to know the risk factors for ovarian cancer.
There are some factors that can increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
A risk factor is anything that can increase your risk of cancer. A protective factor is anything that reduces the risk of cancer.
As with most cancers, ovarian cancer becomes more common as you age. The risk of ovarian cancer increases sharply after age 45. And it is higher in those between 75 and 79 years old.
In addition, specialists indicate: “Smoking can increase the risk of certain types of ovarian cancer, such as mucinous ovarian cancer. The longer you have smoked, the greater the risk.»
CancerResearch says that there are also factors that can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer:
He says: “Taking the combined contraceptive pill at some point in your life reduces the risk of ovarian cancer.
“Research has shown that the longer the pill is taken, the more risk is thought to be reduced. The risk reduction lasts for decades after stopping the pill.»