Other Symptoms That May Accompany Ovarian Cancer

Although the six symptoms above are among the most common, ovarian cancer may also cause:

• Persistent pelvic pain.
• Lower back pain.
• Fatigue that does not improve with rest.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Loss of appetite.
• Nausea.
• Increased abdominal pressure.
• Shortness of breath in advanced stages due to fluid buildup.

Many of these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, but persistent or worsening symptoms should never be ignored.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Experts recommend seeking medical advice if one or more of these symptoms:

• Occur almost daily.
• Persist for more than two or three weeks.
• Become more severe over time.
• Represent a noticeable change from your normal health.

Doctors may recommend a pelvic examination, imaging tests such as an ultrasound, and, when appropriate, blood tests such as the CA-125 marker as part of the evaluation. These tests help determine the cause of symptoms but are not used alone to diagnose ovarian cancer.

Can Ovarian Cancer Be Prevented?

There is currently no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cancer. However, certain measures may help reduce risk or improve early detection:

• Attend regular gynecological checkups.
• Know your family history of ovarian or breast cancer.
• Discuss genetic testing if you have a strong family history.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Stay physically active.
• Pay attention to persistent changes in your body rather than dismissing them.

Awareness is one of the most powerful tools for early detection.