New Delhi, 07 May 2025: Ovarian cancer is often referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason—it tends to go unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage. The symptoms of ovarian cancer are often subtle, vague, and easily mistaken for common digestive or hormonal issues. However, early detection dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment. That’s why understanding the early warning signs and not ignoring persistent symptoms is vital for every woman.
Why Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer Is Crucial
Ovarian cancer ranks as the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women globally. The reason it’s so deadly is largely because it’s often diagnosed too late. According to health experts, if caught early—at stage 1—the five-year survival rate is over 90%. However, most women are diagnosed at stage 3 or 4, when the survival rate drops significantly.
One of the major challenges with ovarian cancer is that its symptoms mimic common, non-threatening issues like indigestion, bloating, or fatigue. These everyday discomforts can make it easy to delay a doctor’s visit, giving the disease more time to spread.
Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer Most Women Overlook
Here are some of the most ignored ovarian cancer symptoms that should never be brushed aside:
- Persistent Bloating: If you experience bloating that doesn’t go away after a few days or continues for several weeks, it could be more than just gas or PMS. Constant abdominal swelling is one of the earliest signs of ovarian cancer and should be discussed with your doctor.
- Pelvic or Abdominal Pain: Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region that persists, worsens, or feels different than your usual menstrual cramps can be a red flag. Unlike period-related discomfort, ovarian cancer pain doesn’t come and go—it often intensifies over time.
- Feeling Full Quickly: If you feel full soon after beginning a meal or have a reduced appetite that persists, this could be a sign of a tumor pressing against your stomach or intestines. When combined with other symptoms like bloating or weight loss, it becomes more concerning.
- Frequent Urination or Urgency: Needing to urinate more often or suddenly feeling an urgent need to pee—despite drinking the same amount of fluids—may indicate a growing ovarian mass putting pressure on the bladder.
- Unexplained Fatigue: Constant tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest may be a sign of your body fighting something serious. Chronic fatigue is often ignored or blamed on a busy lifestyle, but it could be a systemic warning of ovarian cancer.
- Changes in Bowel Habits: Constipation, diarrhea, or noticeable changes in bowel movements that are new and persistent can indicate abdominal or pelvic issues, including ovarian cancer.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying, especially when combined with abdominal discomfort or appetite changes, should prompt further investigation. While weight loss may seem like a positive change, when it’s sudden and without a clear reason, it could be a symptom of cancer.
Who Is at Risk of Ovarian Cancer?
While all women can develop ovarian cancer, some are at higher risk than others. Factors that increase your risk include:
- Family history of ovarian or breast cancer
- Age over 50, especially postmenopausal women
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
- Endometriosis
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Never having been pregnant
If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to stay vigilant about symptoms and consider regular screenings, even if you feel healthy.
If you notice one or more of the symptoms mentioned above that last for more than two weeks, don’t dismiss them. Many women wait until symptoms become severe, which often leads to a delayed diagnosis. A pelvic exam, transvaginal ultrasound, or a CA-125 blood test may help detect ovarian cancer early.
Many women are conditioned to push through discomfort, blaming stress, diet, or aging for how they feel. But your body often gives warning signs when something is wrong. Don’t ignore them. Awareness, timely checkups, and a proactive approach to your health can make all the difference.
Remember: Cancer in the ovaries is not always silent—you just need to know how to listen. Prioritize your health and never ignore what feels unusual or persistent.
