Ovarian Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Early-stage ovarian cancer does not usually cause noticeable symptoms. What’s more, as the tumor progresses and symptoms become apparent, the signs are often vague and can be easily misattributed to a less serious condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or constipation.

As with any type of cancer, diagnosis of ovarian cancer at an early stage is associated with better outcomes. However, earlier diagnosis is not always biologically possible. These cancers do not necessarily progress through a predictable, uniform sequence from localized to advanced disease. Some ovarian cancers may remain confined for a prolonged period while others may spread very early in their development, and staging reflects not just when the cancer is detected but also the underlying biology.  

There is currently no reliable screening test available for ovarian cancer, even in high-risk populations. Women are encouraged to become familiar with their bodies and what is normal for them and promptly discuss any unusual changes with a physician. The limitations to screening and early diagnosis highlight the importance of knowing your risk and what measures you can take to prevent or decrease that risk.

Early warning signs of ovarian cancer

Because the ovaries are tiny and located deep within the abdominal cavity, small cellular changes within them usually do not have a noticeable effect on the surrounding tissues. Often, the first warning sign of ovarian cancer is abdominal pain or bloating, which may be easily overlooked.

Common ovarian cancer signs and symptoms 

As ovarian cancer grows and spreads within the pelvic region, the tumor may begin to pressure nearby organs and tissues. In addition to abdominal pain and bloating, the most common symptoms include: 

• Pelvic or abdominal pain or pressure.  
• Abdominal bloating or swelling 
• An early feeling of fullness (satiety) when eating 
• Urinary urgency or frequency 

Other possible ovarian cancer symptoms include: 

• Low back pain 
• Indigestion and gas 
• Constipation and other changes in bowel habits 
• Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge 
• Urinary urgency or frequency 
• Extreme fatigue 
• Acid reflux symptoms, such as chest pain and heartburn 
• Pain during sexual intercourse 
• Unexplained weight loss 

"Once you were part of the Moffitt family, you never felt alone."

Donna, Ovarian Cancer Survivor

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What does ovarian cancer feel like?

Because every woman and every cancer is unique, the symptoms of ovarian cancer can vary widely, and some symptoms may be more uncomfortable than others. With regard to discomfort, some women simply report feeling “off” before receiving a diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

Bloating is one of the most common and noticeable signs of advanced ovarian cancer. Due to fluid buildup, the abdomen may become swollen and distended. The bloating may be painful or accompanied by an uncomfortable sensation of tightness in the stomach area along with indigestion and gas. The resulting pressure on the stomach can cause a loss of appetite, while the resulting pressure on the lungs can cause shortness of breath.

Do ovarian cancer symptoms come on suddenly?

Ovarian cancer was long believed to remain “silent” until it spread. However, recent studies suggest that early-stage ovarian cancer may produce noticeable symptoms, such as abdominal pain and bloating, which sometimes come on suddenly.

Are ovarian cancer symptoms different at each stage?

Cancer staging is a standardized process that provides useful information about cancer spread. Ovarian cancer is staged based on an evaluation of tissue samples taken from the pelvic and abdominal regions. This information is important because ovarian cancer symptoms and treatment can vary at different stages.

There are four main stages of ovarian cancer:

• Stage 1 – The cancer is confined to one or both ovaries.
• Stage 2 – The cancer has spread beyond the ovaries to other structures in the pelvis, such as the uterus or fallopian tubes.
• Stage 3 – The cancer has spread beyond the pelvis to the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage 4 – The cancer has spread beyond the abdomen and/or into organs.

At stages 1 and 2, when the cancer is confined to the ovaries or has only spread to nearby tissues, the symptoms may be mild or nonspecific, making the condition challenging to diagnose. At stages 3 and 4, when the cancer has spread to distant organs, such as the abdomen, liver or lungs, the symptoms may become more noticeable and severe.

Advanced ovarian cancer signs and symptoms

As ovarian cancer progresses, its symptoms tend to become more pronounced. Additionally, if the tumor spreads to another part of the body, additional symptoms may develop. For instance, ovarian cancer that has spread to the lungs may cause persistent coughing or shortness of breath.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about ovarian cancer signs and symptoms

The following FAQs-related articles provide additional information about ovarian cancer signs and symptoms:

• Does ovarian cancer always affect your menstrual cycle?
• Why does ovarian cancer cause bloating?
• What are some less common symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center

Consistently ranked among the top 1% of cancer centers in the nation, Moffitt is a trusted provider of ovarian cancer diagnostic and treatment services, including genetic testing to assess hereditary risk, individualized supportive care from compassionate specialists and trailblazing clinical trials that are improving outcomes for patients today and into the future. The multispecialty team in our gynecological clinic focuses exclusively on cancers that affect the female reproductive system, and our experts are readily available for consultations. Whether you are experiencing new symptoms, looking for a second opinion or seeking relief from the side effects of treatment, our skilled ovarian cancer team can help.

To request an appointment with an expert in our gynecological clinic, please call 1-888-663-3488 or complete our new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.

References

American Cancer Society: Signs & Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
American Cancer Society: Ovarian Cancer Risk Factors
Cancer.net: Can Cancer Symptoms Be Mistaken for Menopause?