The silent signs: what every woman needs to know about ovarian cancer 

From the often-overlooked symptoms, to potential treatments, this is what every woman should look out for…

Bloating? Feeling full? Needing to wee more often? These are easy symptoms to dismiss, but sometimes, these everyday niggles can point to something more serious. Known as the silent killer, ovarian cancer has a reputation for being tricky to spot, especially in its early stages.

Here in the UK, it’s the 6th most common cancer for females, with around 7,500 new cases diagnosed every year.

Although ovarian cancer accounts for a small 4% of all new female cancer cases in the UK, it’s known to progress quickly, so catching it early, is crucial.

The issue with ovarian cancer symptoms is that they’re easy to brush off or mistake for something else. Bloating could be put down as digestive or menstrual issues, for example.

And, unlike cervical cancer, which has routine screening through smear testing, there is a lack of regular check-ups for ovarian cancer, which again can mean it can go unnoticed. Plus, 40% of women mistakenly believe that cervical cancer screenings detect ovarian cancer. 

“This is why awareness of the symptoms is so important,” says Saadia Shah, Consultant Gynaecologist at London Gynaecologist. 

“Understanding the signs and knowing when to act could make all the difference.”

The common but easy-to-dismiss symptoms 

There are several symptoms of ovarian cancer, but they can often be associated with other, less serious conditions.

Saadia says: “Persistent bloating rather than bloating that comes and goes; feeling full quickly and/or loss of appetite; pelvic or abdominal pain; and needing to wee more urgently or more often than usual are ones to look out for . Occasionally, other symptoms can include changes in bowel habits, extreme fatigue  and unplanned weight loss.”

Bloating might seem like nothing more than a reaction to what you’ve eaten, however Saadia says that if symptoms are new, persistent or unusual for you and happen more than 12 times a month, then you must not ignore them as it could signify a problem.

Ovarian cysts may also mimic some of the same symptoms as ovarian cancer, but having cysts doesn’t raise your risk of the disease. 

“Other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) also have symptoms similar to ovarian cancer,” says Saadia.

“It’s unlikely that your symptoms are caused by a serious problem but it’s important to get checked out, even if they’re mild.”

Who is most at risk?

While ovarian cancer can affect anyone with ovaries, there are some groups at a slightly higher risk. 

“As with most cancers, the risk of developing ovarian cancer increases as you get older. Those over the age of 50 have a higher risk and most cases of ovarian cancer happen in those who have already gone through the menopause,” says Saadia.

Genetics can also play a role and if two or more of your close relatives have had cancer you should tell your GP as ovarian cancer can run in families. However, do remember that about 80 in 100 cases of ovarian cancer are ‘sporadic’ and not inherited.

Ovarian cancer is also more likely to occur in  women who are obese and in women who have a family history of ovarian cancer. There is also a higher risk in women who smoke and women who take HRT.

How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?

A combination of tests can confirm whether or not you have developed ovarian cancer. While a biopsy is the only definitive way to confirm a diagnosis, your doctor may also arrange blood tests (such as CA125) and imaging like  ultrasound. If further exploration is needed, an MRI scan can provide more detailed information, particularly about the type and extent of the cancer.

Most commonly, we see Epithelial ovarian cancer which starts in the surface layer covering the ovary. Fallopian tube cancer is another type of epithelial ovarian cancer, which begins to develop in the fallopian tubes. These tubes connect the ovaries to the womb.

Primary peritoneal cancer (PPC) is a rarer type of cancer starting in the peritoneum, the thin layer of tissue lining the inside of the tummy.

As part of the diagnostic journey, consultants will determine the stage of the cancer. Stage 1 means the cancer is limited to one or both ovaries whilst stage 4, the highest stage, indicates that the cancer has spread to distant organs such as the lungs.

Ultimately, you know your body better than anyone. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Book an appointment with your GP who will be able to arrange for the appropriate tests. Alternatively, you can make an appointment with London Gynaecology, where our specialists can offer expert assessment and advice.

Treatments and prognosis

Catching ovarian cancer as early as possible is important as this can greatly improve the outcome.

Treating ovarian cancer will depend on a few factors such as the size and the type of ovarian cancer, if it’s spread and also, your general health. Essentially, your treatment will be tailored to you and your needs, but your consultant will talk you through every step, so you’ll never be left in the dark.

Saadia says: “Although it’s not always the case, surgery to remove as much of the tumour and disease as possible is often the first option. Chemotherapy is used as well, either alone or alongside surgery.”

If you are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, you’ll likely want to know exactly what your future looks like.

“It can be hard to say as the chances of beating ovarian cancer can be dictated by your age, medical condition, the type and stage of your ovarian cancer and how well you respond to treatment. Your doctor or consultant is there to answer your questions, so don’t be afraid to ask- after all, that’s what we’re here for,” says Saadia.

“While treatment can be tough, outcomes are improving and the earlier ovarian cancer is diagnosed, the better the chance of successful treatment.”

Ultimately, trusting your instincts is vital. 

If you notice anything different or unusual, then don’t wait to seek help. If you are concerned, book an appointment with your GP or a member of the London Gynaecology team.

Speak to our team of experts