An NHS doctor has taken to social media to raise awareness about five common symptoms of ovarian cancer that are often overlooked but warrant attention.
Ovarian cancer, a prevalent type of cancer affecting the ovaries, typically affects women over 50 but can occur in anyone with ovaries, regardless of age. According to the NHS, it is often diagnosed late due to subtle symptoms.
It is also possible to develop ovarian cancer even after having your ovaries removed, as it can also affect the fallopian tubes or abdominal lining.
To educate the public about ovarian cancer signs, a gynaecologist shared five often-overlooked symptoms on social media. Dr Brooke Vandermolen, an NHS doctor and Registrar in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in London, shares insights and tips on female health issues like pregnancy, fertility, and menopause on her social media platform, ‘The OBGYN Mum’.
In one video, Dr Brooke highlighted the five key symptoms of early-stage ovarian cancer that should not be ignored. “Here are the signs of ovarian cancer that everyone needs to be aware of,” she said.
“Ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages because it’s got subtle symptoms. However, there are several warning signs that you should never ignore.”
Dr Brooke went on to outline the five key symptoms to watch for in ovarian cancer.
1. Abdominal or pelvic pains
“Number one, persistent abdominal or pelvic pains, especially if it’s severe and unusual for you,” she emphasised at the beginning of her list. She noted that while these pains are often mistaken for period pains or IBS, which are more common causes, they should not be dismissed lightly.
“But if you don’t usually suffer with these or if it’s a new type of pain for you, then don’t ignore it,” Dr Brooke advised.
2. Bloating
The second warning sign she mentioned is bloating. Dr Brooke said: “Frequent and prolonged bloating, especially again, if it’s a new symptom, can be a sign of ovarian cancer. So if you notice the abdomen feels a bit enlarged, clothes feel tighter around the waist for no reason, do consult your doctor.”
3. Decreased hunger
Appetite loss is another indicator. “Number three, feeling full or difficulty finishing your meals,” she stated.
“If you suddenly notice that there’s a change in your appetite, and you start eating and you feel full quickly or your appetite is just not the same as it was before.”
4. Increased need to urinate
The fourth symptom to be aware of is an increased need to urinate. Dr Brooke explained this could be due to a growing tumour exerting pressure on the bladder.
5. Changes in weight
Lastly, she highlighted unexplained changes to weight as a potential symptom. She highlighted: “Number five, unexplained weight loss or weight gain, especially if it’s rapid and it’s not related to any changes in your diet or your exercise. Then this can be a sign of a tumour or some fluid that’s accumulating in your abdomen.”
For those experiencing possible symptoms, Dr Brooke advised: “If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms consistently for more than a few weeks, do see your doctor for a thorough evaluation.”
She also suggested explicitly mentioning concerns about ovarian cancer, saying, “Tell them ‘I’m worried these symptoms could be ovarian cancer’. It’s more likely to be nothing as these symptoms are vague, but if it is the beginning of ovarian cancer, then early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.”
The NHS also notes additional symptoms to watch out for, which are pain or tenderness in the abdomen, pelvic area, back pain, digestive issues, persistent fatigue, and postmenopausal bleeding. If you notice any of these signs, the NHS strongly advises booking an appointment with your GP to investigate and possibly catch any cancer at an early stage.