4. Persistent Changes in Bowel Habits
Ovarian tumors can place pressure on nearby organs, including the intestines, leading to digestive symptoms that may be mistaken for irritable bowel syndrome or other gastrointestinal disorders.
Possible symptoms include:
- Constipation.
- Diarrhea.
- Indigestion.
- Excessive gas.
- Feeling that the bowels do not empty completely.
These digestive changes may occur alongside fatigue, lower back pain, pelvic discomfort, or unexplained weight changes. Persistent symptoms lasting several weeks should be investigated.
5. Ongoing Abdominal Bloating
Persistent bloating is one of the most commonly reported symptoms before an ovarian cancer diagnosis.
Unlike occasional bloating after eating certain foods, ovarian cancer-related bloating often:
- Occurs almost every day.
- Does not improve with dietary changes.
- Causes the abdomen to appear swollen.
- May worsen over time.
As the disease progresses, fluid may accumulate inside the abdominal cavity, increasing pressure, discomfort, and abdominal size.
Women who notice persistent bloating lasting more than two or three weeks should schedule a medical evaluation.
6. Frequent or Urgent Urination
Many women assume frequent urination is caused by aging, urinary tract infections, or drinking too much water. However, ovarian cancer can also produce this symptom.
As a tumor enlarges, it may press against the bladder, causing:
- A frequent need to urinate.
- Sudden urinary urgency.
- Difficulty completely emptying the bladder.
- Pressure or discomfort in the pelvis.
If urinary symptoms occur without signs of infection or continue despite treatment, they should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
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