“There is no early detection test for ovarian cancer, so all women need to be aware of the symptoms. The most commonly reported symptoms for ovarian cancer…”.1
Umbrella
What may the Ovarian Cancer Umbrella include?
Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:
- Cancer of the Ovary
- Ovarian Cancer
Cancer
What is cancer?
DotS the definition of cancer may vary. The (United States) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) definition is:
“Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the body grow out of control. Cancer is usually named for the part of the body where it starts, even if it spreads to other body parts later”.2
Ovarian Cancer
What is ovarian cancer?
DotS the definition of ovarian cancer may vary. The CDC’s definition is:
“Ovarian cancer is a group of diseases that originates in the ovaries, or in the related areas of the fallopian tubes and the peritoneum”.3
Types
What are the different types of ovarian cancer?
In Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, and Primary Peritoneal Cancer Screening (PDQ®)–Patient Version the (United States) National Cancer Institute (NCI) elaborate the different types of ovarian cancer and include a diagram of the ovaries.
Symptoms
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
In Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer: What Are the Symptoms? the [United Kingdom] Target Ovarian Cancer elaborate on:
- “Persistent bloating (not bloating that comes and goes)
- Feeling full quickly and/or loss of appetite
- Pelvic or abdominal pain (that’s from your tummy to the top of your thighs)
- Urinary symptoms (needing to wee more urgently or more often than usual)”.4
Other Symptoms
What can be other symptoms of ovarian cancer?
In Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer: What Are the Symptoms? Target Ovarian Cancer also explain:
- Changes in bowel habit (e.g. diarrhoea or constipation)
- Extreme fatigue (feeling very tired)
- Unplanned weight loss
- Any unusual bleeding from the vagina before or after the menopause should always be investigated by a GP”.5
In Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer: What Are the Symptoms? Target Ovarian Cancer note:
- New – they’re not normal for you
- Frequent – they usually happen more than 12 times a month
- Persistent – they don’t go away”.6
Cause
What causes ovarian cancer?
In Ovarian Cancer: Main Causes of Ovarian Cancer the (United Kingdom) NHS explain:
- Inherited a faulty gene, such as the BRCA genes or those linked to Lynch syndrome
- Had breast cancer or bowel cancer
- Had radiotherapy treatment for a previous cancer
- Have endometriosis or diabetes
- Started your periods at a young age or went through the menopause late (over 55), or have not had a baby – because these things may mean you’ve released more eggs (ovulated more)
- Have never used any hormonal contraception, such as the pill or an implant
- Are taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Are overweight
- Smoke”.7
Age
Is there an association between the risk of developing ovarian cancer and getting older?
In Ovarian Cancer Risk: Age the Target Ovarian Cancer note:
Although it’s not common, if you’re younger and haven’t been through the menopause you can get ovarian cancer. Over 1,000 women under the age of 50 develop ovarian cancer every year. That’s why it’s important that everyone is aware of the symptoms of ovarian cancer. This is especially important if you have a family history of ovarian or breast cancer”.8
The (United States) ACS note:
Common or Not
How common is ovarian cancer?
In the United States, the NCI in Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, and Primary Peritoneal Cancer Screening (PDQ®)–Patient Version: General Information About Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, and Primary Peritoneal Cancer elaborate on:
While ovarian cancer is rare, it is the leading cause of death from cancer of the female reproductive system”.10
In the United Kingdom (UK) Cancer Research UK note:
Pap Test
Does the Pap test check for ovarian cancer?
No. In Ovarian Cancer Testing & Detection the World Cancer Coalition note:
“Currently, there is no routine, simple screening test to accurately detect ovarian cancer. Contrary to popular belief, cervical screening (i.e.: Pap smear) will not detect ovarian cancer. While cervical screening is effective in early detection of cervical cancer, it is not a test for ovarian cancer”.12
Symptom Diary
Where may I find an ovarian cancer symptom diary?
Your Country may have Links similar to:
Ovarian Cancer Symptom Diary
- Experiencing Ovarian Cancer Symptoms? How To Talk To Your GP About Your Concerns: Keep Track of Your Symptoms – Paper Symptoms Diary
- Symptom Diary: B.E.A.T. Symptom Diary
- Symptoms: Learn the Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer – Symptom Diary
- Symptoms: More Support – Symptom Diary
- What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer? Ovarian Cancer Symptom Diary
Health Care Provider
What if I am worried about some symptoms I am experiencing?
In Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer: Worried About Your Symptom? Target Ovarian Cancer elaborate on:
If two or more of your close relatives have had cancer you should tell your GP as ovarian cancer can run in families”.“If you experience some of the symptoms of ovarian cancer for more than two weeks, talk to your doctor”.13
Who is a GP?
DotS and DotC (Depending on the Country) a GP may be a qualified and registered general practitioner, a medical practitioner, a medical doctor or a doctor.
Health Topics A-Z
Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Ovarian Cancer?
In Health Topics A-Z you may find:
Links
Where may I find Links related to Ovarian Cancer?
Your Country may have Links similar to:
Links
This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.New or Updated
- 5 Warning Signs and Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer
- About Ovarian Cancer
- About Ovarian Cancer
- BRCA & Lynch Syndrome FAQs
- BRCA Gene Mutations: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing
- BRCA Gene Test for Breast and Ovarian Cancer Risk
- BRCA Genetic Test
- CA125 Blood Test
- CA 125 Test: A Screening Test for Ovarian Cancer?
- Does Hormone Replacement Therapy Increase the Risk of Cancer?
- E13: Ovarian Cancer: The Facts!
- Eve Appeal [United Kingdom]
- Experiencing Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
- Experiencing Ovarian Cancer Symptoms? How To Talk To Your GP About Your Concerns: Keep Track of Your Symptoms – Paper Symptoms Diary
- Family Health History
- Five Facts of Ovarian Cancer
- Get the Facts
- Foundationforwomenscancer.org [Foundation for Women’s Cancer, United States]
- Genetics: What Does This Mean for Me and My Family?
- Glossary of Terms
- Gynecologic Cancers
- Gynecologic Cancers
- Heredity Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Breast and Ovarian Cancers and Family Health History
- Heredity Cancer Risk Tool
- Heredity Hub
- If You Have Ovarian Cancer
- I’m Experiencing Bloating – What Should I Do?
- Lynch Syndrome [+ Video: What Is Lynch Syndrome]
- Lynch Syndrome: Everything You Need To Know
- Mayo Clinic Q&A Podcast: Consider All Treatment Options for Ovarian Cancer, Including Clinical Trials [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network]
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Cancer and Complementary Health Approaches: What You Need To Know
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: How Safe Is This Product or Practice?
- National Ovarian Cancer Coalition [United States]
- Ovacome.. Ovarian Cancer [United Kingdom]
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer Action [United Kingdom]
- Ovarian Cancer Australia
- Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month [March, United Kingdom]
- Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month [September, United States]
- Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance [United States]
- Ovarian Cancer Screening: More Than A Pelvic Exam
- Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
- Ovarian Cancer Symptoms & Risks – What Are the Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer?
- Ovarian Cancer Testing & Detection
- Ovarian Cancer – Basic Information About Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer – What Are the Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer?
- Ovarian Cancer – What Are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?
- Ovarian Cancer – What Can I Do To Reduce My Risk of Ovarian Cancer?
- Ovarian Cancer – What Should I Know About Screening?
- Ovarian Cancer/Primary Peritoneal
- Ovarian Cancer: Causes
- Ovarian Cancer: Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging – Tests for Ovarian Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer: Family History
- Ovarian Cancer: Still Possible After Hysterectomy?
- Ovarian Cancer: What Are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?
- Ovarian Cancer: What Is Ovarian Cancer?
- Ovarian Cancer: What Is Ovarian Cancer? The Ovaries and Reproductive System: Cancers of the Female Reproductive System [Video]
- Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, and Primary Peritoneal Cancer–Patient Version
- Pap Test: Can It Detect Ovarian Cancer?
- Persistent Bloating
- Stages and Grades
- Symptom Diary [+ Video: Recognise the Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer]
- Symptom Diary: B.E.A.T. Symptom Diary
- Symptoms
- Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
- Symptoms: Learn the Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer – Symptom Diary
- Symptoms: More Support – Symptom Diary
- Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer
- Talk With A Doctor If Breast or Ovarian Cancer Runs In Your Family
- Targetovariancancer.org.uk [Target Ovarian Cancer, United Kingdom]
- Tips for Tracking Your Bleeding
- Understanding Ovarian Cancer
- Value of Diagnostics Within Women’s Health: Ovarian Cancer
- Video Series-2023: Changes In Sexual Health After Cancer
- Video Series-2023: Premature and Early Menopause
- Videos and Podcasts: Videos – Interviews: How Do I Deal With the Menopause After A Diagnosis of Gynaecological Cancer
- What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer? Ovarian Cancer Symptom Diary
- What Are the Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer?
- What Is My Risk of Ovarian Cancer?
- What Is Ovarian Cancer?
- What Is Ovarian Cancer?
- What Is Ovarian Cancer?
- What Is Ovarian Cancer? [Video]
- World Ovarian Cancer Day May 8, 2023
- Worldovariancancercoalition.org [World Ovarian Cancer Coalition]
- You and Ovarian Cancer: An Animated Patient’s Guide To Ovarian Cancer
Sources
Where may I find the Sources quoted?
You may find the Sources quoted at:
Sources
- Symptoms. Ovarian Cancer Australia https://www.ovariancancer.net.au/about-ovarian-cancer/symptoms Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Ovarian Cancer: Basic Information About Ovarian Cancer. Last Reviewed: 14 June 2023. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/ovarian/basic_info/index.htm Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Ovarian Cancer: Basic Information About Ovarian Cancer. Last Reviewed: 14 June 2023. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/ovarian/basic_info/screening.htm Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer: What Are the Symptoms? Last Reviewed: November 2022. Target Ovarian Cancer https://targetovariancancer.org.uk/about-ovarian-cancer/symptoms Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer: What Are the Symptoms? Last Reviewed: November 2022. Target Ovarian Cancer https://targetovariancancer.org.uk/about-ovarian-cancer/symptoms Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer: What Are the Symptoms? Last Reviewed: November 2022. Target Ovarian Cancer https://targetovariancancer.org.uk/about-ovarian-cancer/symptoms Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Ovarian Cancer: Main Causes of Ovarian Cancer. Page Last Reviewed: 24 January 2022. NHS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer/causes/ Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Ovarian Cancer Risk: Age. Last Reviewed: April 2023. Target Ovarian Cancer https://targetovariancancer.org.uk/about-ovarian-cancer/risk Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Ovarian Cancer: About Ovarian Cancer – Key Statistics for Ovarian Cancer. Last Revised: 19 January 2024. American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/about/key-statistics.html Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, and Primary Peritoneal Cancer Screening (PDQ®)–Patient Version: General Information About Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, and Primary Peritoneal Cancer. Updated: 31 March 2023. National Cancer Institute https://www.cancer.gov/types/ovarian/patient/ovarian-screening-pdq#section/_5 Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Ovarian Cancer: How Common It Is. Last Reviewed: 30 November 2021. Cancer Research UK https://about-cancer.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/ovarian-cancer/what-is-ovarian-cancer Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Ovarian Cancer Testing & Detection. World Cancer Coalition https://worldovariancancercoalition.org/about-ovarian-cancer/detection-testing/ Accessed: 22 February 2024
- Ovarian Cancer: Diagnosis. Last Updated: 07 December 2023 | Last Reviewed: 14 April 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina-ovaries-uterus/ovarian-cancer#diagnosis Accessed: 22 February 2024