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Ovarian Cancer


Symptoms & Signs

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

Ovarian cancer has a silent onset. The tumor may become quite large before it causes a problem. Ovarian tumors may be deep in the pelvis. They may be hard to detect, even with a pelvic exam.

When symptoms do occur, they are varied. They are related to the size and position of the tumor, as well as to the involvement of other organs. These symptoms may include:

  • bladder problems, such as stress incontinence and urinary frequency
  • a change in bowel habits, such as constipation
  • early menopause, or bleeding after menopause
  • gastrointestinal problems, such as indigestion, gas, and fullness after a light meal
  • heavy menstrual flow with breast tenderness
  • increasing abdominal size due to accumulation of fluid
  • irregular menstrual cycles
  • low back pain
  • pain and pressure in the pelvis and abdomen
  • weight loss