Ovarian cancer is the deadliest cancer of the female reproductive system. Early signs include bladder infections, fatigue, gastrointestinal problems, pelvic pain, and changes in the vagina or vulva. Family history increases the risk, and genetic counselors can check for specific mutations.
Of all the cancers of the female reproductive system, ovarian cancer is the deadliest. Early signs of ovarian cancer include bladder infections, fatigue, gastrointestinal problems, and pelvic pain. Many of the symptoms go unnoticed in people with the disease. It’s also possible that the symptoms mimic other conditions, including bladder and digestive problems.
Bladder infections are one of the first signs of ovarian cancer. It is also known as an inflammation of the bladder. People who have a bladder infection often report that it’s uncomfortable to have. Bladder infections are serious, so you need to get it treated quickly. If the bladder infection doesn’t heal, the underlying problem may be ovarian cancer.
A first symptom to monitor is fatigue. Most people confuse it with feeling tired. Getting a full night’s rest tends to eliminate fatigue. Rest does not eliminate fatigue because it occurs every day and the person experiences a lack of energy. This is one of the earliest signs of ovarian cancer which prevents women from functioning normally and completing tasks.
Those suffering from gastrointestinal disorders may show early signs of ovarian cancer. Symptoms such as diarrhea, gas and constipation can occur due to a tumor pushing against the digestive system. Some women may have a feeling of fullness after eating just a few bites of food. Any changes in a person’s bowel habits should be reported to a doctor if they last for more than three weeks.
You should report any changes in your vagina or vulva to a doctor. New lumps or sores can be early indicators of ovarian cancer. To make it easier for women to identify the changes, experts suggest that women get to know what their vulva looks like. Vaginal itching or unusual discharge are signs of a gynecological problem and should be reported to a doctor.
Pelvic pain is common in women who have ovarian cancer. The female reproductive system is crowded in the pelvic region, so tumors can put pressure on other structures. The pain can also get worse when certain movements are made and during sexual intercourse. Crampy pain associated with menstruation is not an indicator of ovarian cancer.
Anyone with a family history of ovarian cancer should talk to their doctor about the risks. Your doctor can confirm if any of your symptoms are early signs of ovarian cancer. Women who are at risk for this disease due to family history are typically referred to genetic counselors. Genetic counselors have the ability to check for specific genetic mutations that increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
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