Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

What are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that affects the ovaries in women. It is often referred as the "silent killer" because ovarian cancer symptoms do not often appear until it is too late for effective treatment. However, experts have identified three symptoms of ovarian cancer that may aid in early detection. Women should watch out for:

• feeling full quickly after eating or difficulty eating
  
• abdominal bloating and/or pelvic pain
  
• frequent urge to urinate

Experts recommend that women who experience these ovarian symptoms daily for three weeks or longer should see their doctor.

Other symptoms of ovarian cancer don't appear until the disease has progressed to advanced stages. These symptoms include:

• changes in bowel movements (frequency and consistency)
  
• ain during sexual intercourse
  
• persistent fatigue
  
• abdominal weight gain
  
• sudden weight gain or weight loss

Keep in mind that these symptoms are also signs of many other conditions. If you are experiencing these symptoms, please see your doctor.

_Sources:

_{American Cancer Society. Detailed Guide: Ovarian Cancer. 06 Feb 2008. Accessed 21 July 2009.}

_{National Cancer Institute. Ovarian Cancer. 23 April 2007. Accessed 21 July 2009.}