Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the ovaries, leading to various health issues like abdominal pain and bloating. Here are the 10 signs of ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs. While treatable through surgery and chemotherapy, ovarian cancer is ranked as the eighth most common cancer in women and the eighteenth most common overall. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, there were over 3,13,000 new cases worldwide in 2020. Individuals with ovarian cancer may face complications such as abdominal swelling, stomach upset, pelvic pain, urinary frequency, and weight changes.
It is crucial to be aware of the signs of ovarian cancer as they can easily be mistaken for regular abdomen-related issues. But before that, let’s delve into the causes of ovarian cancer.
What causes ovarian cancer?
Dr Sumana Banerjee, a consultant in obstetrics and gynecology, states,“The exact cause of ovarian cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified that can put you at risk of developing ovarian cancer.” Some common causes of ovarian cancer include:
- Women above the age of 50
- A family history of ovarian or breast cancer
- Never having been pregnant
- Starting menstruation at an early age
- Undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Being overweight or obese
- Medical conditions such as endometriosis
- Smoking
- Using talcum powder
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer
Here are the 10 most common signs of ovarian cancer to watch out for:
1. Abdominal or pelvic pain
One of the most commonly recognized symptoms of ovarian cancer is pelvic and abdominal pain, as noted in Cancer Medicine. Many women with ovarian cancer have reported pain as one of their initial symptoms. The pain can be constant or intermittent, described as a dull ache or pressure.