What Are The 10 Signs of Ovarian Cancer?
Early Detection Saves Lives
Recognize the Warning Signs
The 10 Critical Signs of Ovarian Cancer
Be Aware
Don’t Ignore These Symptoms
If you experience several of these symptoms persistently for more than 2-3 weeks, see your doctor immediately. Many women are misdiagnosed or dismissed – be your own advocate.
1. Persistent Bloating
This is the most common early sign. Unlike normal bloating from eating, ovarian cancer bloating is usually constant and doesn’t come and go. Your abdomen may feel swollen or distended even when you haven’t eaten much.
2. Feeling Full Quickly
You find yourself getting full after eating just small amounts of food. This happens because tumors can press against your stomach, making you feel satisfied much sooner than normal.
3. Abdominal Tenderness or Pain
Unlike the localized pain from ovarian cysts, ovarian cancer often causes pain that spreads across the entire abdomen. The pain may be dull, aching, or sharp and doesn’t go away.
4. Extreme Fatigue
This isn’t ordinary tiredness. Your body works overtime trying to fight the cancer, leaving you feeling exhausted even after resting. You may find it hard to get up from the couch or complete simple tasks.
5. Digestive Changes
Persistent stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation that doesn’t respond to typical treatments. These symptoms make it difficult to maintain normal daily activities.
6. Loss of Appetite
You may notice you’re just not hungry anymore, or foods that you used to enjoy no longer appeal to you. This often accompanies feeling full quickly.
7. Urinary Problems
Sudden changes in urination including increased frequency, urgency, incontinence, or difficulty emptying your bladder completely. This happens when tumors compress the bladder or ureters.
8. Pelvic or Back Pain
Persistent pain in your pelvis, lower back, or legs that doesn’t improve with rest or typical pain relief methods. The pain may worsen over time.
9. Changes in Bowel Habits
Sudden onset of constipation or diarrhea that persists, especially if you haven’t changed your diet or routine. This can be caused by tumors pressing on the intestines.
10. Unusual Abdominal Swelling
Your clothes may feel tighter around your waist, or you may notice your abdomen looks larger than usual. This can be from fluid buildup or tumor growth.
Remember: These symptoms become more persistent and severe over time, unlike temporary digestive issues.
What to Ask Your Doctor
If you have genetic predispositions or multiple symptoms, specifically request a CA-125 blood test. While not always elevated in early stages, it can provide important information. A normal level is under 35 – levels significantly higher warrant immediate investigation.
Do you know your family history? Do you know if you carry any genetic mutations that could increase your risk of cancer? 15% of ovarian cancer cases are passed down through the generations in families. Ask your doctor about getting genetic testing so you can understand these risks and possibly take steps to reduce your risk.
Keep a Symptom Journal
Track when symptoms occur, their severity, and how long they last. This organized information helps doctors take your concerns seriously and can lead to faster diagnosis.
This is not a complete list of symptoms a woman may experience. Please note that some women don’t have any symptoms at all.
Common Misdiagnoses to Watch For
Many women are initially told they have:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Acid reflux or GERD
- Fibroids
- General digestive issues
- “Normal aging” symptoms
Don’t accept these explanations if symptoms persist or worsen.
Request imaging tests like CT scans or ultrasounds to rule out ovarian cancer. You know your body better than anyone else.
Screening and Diagnostics
There is not a diagnostic test for ovarian cancer at this time and remains one of the most hard to detect cancers. Signs and symptoms awareness remain our biggest tool in the toolbox for early detection. Transvaginal ultrasounds and CT Scans will greatly aid in investigation of cancer. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor to run more tests.
About Harts of Teal
Harts of Teal is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating women in our community about the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer and other gynecological cancers. We focus especially on reaching patients who don’t think they’re at risk.
Our mission is to come alongside women during their cancer journey, letting them know they’re not alone. We provide support, community, and resources to help women navigate their diagnosis and treatment.
Our “Teal for Teachers” Campaign
We bring awareness directly to schools, providing educators with information about ovarian cancer signs and symptoms. This grassroots approach has already helped several women recognize their symptoms and seek proper medical care. We have reached 15,500 teachers since 2021.
Early detection dramatically improves survival rates – that’s why awareness matters.
Be Your Own Advocate
- Doctors are there to help you – questions are welcome
- If you don’t feel heard, ask for imaging or further testing
- Request a second opinion if you’re not satisfied
- Trust your instincts – you know your body best
The Three Most Important Signs
If you remember nothing else, watch for these three key symptoms:- Persistent bloating
- Feeling full quickly after small meals
- Abdominal tenderness or pain
How You Can Help Spread Awareness
Help us reach more women who need this life-saving information:
Volunteer
Join us at events and help educate your community about ovarian cancer signs and symptoms.Email hartsofteal@gmail.com to inquire about specific volunteer opportunities.
Every program we run was built by survivors for survivors, so we’re never guessing what a newly diagnosed woman actually needs. Sharing this page is one of the simplest ways to help us close that gap for someone else.
Share on Social Media
Share our educational posts with your friends and family – you never know who might need this information.
Financial Support
Your donations help us sustain our mission of education and support throughout the year. Want to host a fundraiser and become part of The Teal Team, reach out and we will help you get started.
Take Action Today
If you’re experiencing multiple symptoms from this list that have persisted for 2-3 weeks or more, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately. Early detection can mean the difference between life and death.
Remember: Most of the time, these symptoms won’t be cancer – but if they are, catching it early gives you the best chance for successful treatment.