Symptoms

Check with your doctor if you have unusual (for you), and persistent symptoms, such as: 

• Abdominal pressure or bloating

• Nausea, indigestion or gas

• Urinary frequency, constipation, or diarrhea

• Abnormal bleeding

• Unusual fatigue

• Unexplained weight loss or gain

• Shortness of breath

• Pain during intercourse

Listen To Your Body

Risk Factors 

Women at all ages are at risk for ovarian cancer; but some factors increase risk:

• Family or personal history of ovarian, breast or colon cancer

• Not bearing children

• Increasing age.

The Gynecologic Cancer Foundation states that "Diet, exercise and lifestyle choices play a significant role in the prevention of cancer."

What are some of the ways to reduce risk? 

• Oral contraceptives

• Pregnancy and breast-feeding

• Tubal ligation/hysterectomy

• Removal of the ovaries  

Detecting Ovarian Cancer

At the moment, there is no good screening test.  Until there is you can:

• See your doctor and have an annual vaginal-rectal pelvic examination

• If you have symptoms, ask your doctor for a transvaginal ultrasound and a CA 125 blood test.  

Consult a gynecologic oncologist, if you suspect you have ovarian cancer.  To find one in your area, call the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation at 1-800-444-4441.