Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer affects the 2 small organs (ovaries) that store the eggs in our reproductive system.
It mostly affects women over 50, however anyone with ovaries can get ovarian cancer. Unfortunately it is often diagnosed late, but early diagnosis can mean it is more treatable.
Symptoms
The common symptoms of ovarian cancer include...
+ Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain (tummy and below)
+ Increased abdominal size or bloating that doesn't go away
+ Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
+ Urinary symptoms such as having to pee more urgently or more often than before
If a symptom is new for you and is persistent / happens more than 12 times in one months please contact your GP
Occassionally there are other symptoms including...
+ Changes in bowel habit
+ Extreme fatigue
+ Unexplained weight loss and/or loss of appetite
Risk factors
Some risk factors for ovarian cancer include...
+ Having genes such as the BRCA genes or those linked to Lynch syndrome
+ Having breast cancer or bowel cancer before
+ Radiotherapy treatment for a previous cancer
+ Conditions such as endometriosis or diabetes
+ Starting your periods at a young age or going through the menopause late (over 55) as well as not being pregrant/having a baby as these things may mean you’ve ovulated more
+ Hormone replacement therapy
+ Being overweight
+ Smoking
Have you been diagnosed with ovarian
or any other kind of cancer?
Treatments
Cites Sources
“Ovarian cancer - Causes.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer/causes/.
“Ovarian cancer - Symptoms.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer/symptoms/.
“Overview - - - Ovarian cancer.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer/.
After a cancer diagnosis please remember that there are treaments available and you are not alone.
The main treatments for ovarian cancer are surgery and chemotherapy. Other treatments include targeted medicines and hormone treatments.
A team of specialists will work with you to decide on the best treatment plan for you. They will look after you throughout your diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
There are also many charities and support groups dedicated to helping you navigate through your cancer journey. We provide social media as well as in person support, information, meet-ups and much more!