An NHS Community Gynaecologist has shared some of the 'subtle' symptoms of ovarian cancer that should never be ignored
It comes as March marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, which seeks to increase knowledge about the disease. Around 7,400 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the UK each year, according to Cancer Research UK, with more than 75 percent of cases spotted at a later stage, meaning survival rates are lower.
As early warning signs can be subtle and 'associated with other common conditions', the Mirror spoke to Dr Susanna Unsworth to highlight symptoms that should not go ignored.
"I would encourage booking a review with your GP if you are experiencing them," she told The Mirror. "Many of the symptoms are subtle and do not mean that you have ovarian cancer. But it is worth having them checked out to hopefully exclude any underlying problem."
The doctor warns of "key" symptoms to look out for, which include:
- bloating
- pain
- urinary symptoms
- a lump or swelling
Dr Unsworth explained: "bloating that does not settle within two to weeks, bloating that is happening frequently without an obvious trigger, and bloating that is not resolving with the usual treatments/dietary changes".
The expert also warns of "a new pain in the pelvis, back or lower abdomen that does not quickly settle" according to the expert. Passing urine "more frequently" or developing "the need to get up during the night to pass urine" could be a warning sign.
Any lump or swelling in the lower abdomen or pelvis would be an "unusual" early sign, however the doctor still recommends seeing your GP
Other symptoms include a loss of appetite or feeling full quickly, persistent indigestion, change in bowel habit, unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue or abnormal vaginal bleeding.
She goes on to explain what you should expect if you speak to a GP about any of these issues, saying: "These symptoms can often be quite subtle, and many are associated with other common conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. The key thing is if the symptoms are new to you, are different to your usual symptoms, or do not respond to your usual treatments, then it makes sense to get them checked out.
"When you see your GP, discuss the symptoms you are experiencing. I would also suggest telling your GP that you are concerned about ovarian cancer. As a doctor, it is much easier for me, if I also know what you are worried about – that way I can assess the problem fully for you, making sure whatever is done has helped answer the questions you had.
"After discussing the symptoms, your GP will likely want to do an examination. This will include an examination of your tummy, and may also include an internal vaginal examination as this is the best way to see if there are any swellings around the ovaries.
"In early ovarian cancer, often the examination will actually be normal, as there may not yet be anything to feel. Therefore, your GP will likely arrange other tests for you such as a pelvic ultrasound or Ca125 blood test looking for a protein known as a tumour marker."
Dr Unsworth adds: "Your GP may also want to arrange other tests as the symptoms of ovarian cancer can be fairly vague and can overlap with other conditions.
"This might include other blood tests to look for inflammation or potential causes of tiredness, or may also include tests of your poo to look for any bowel problems.
"If any of these tests raise any level of concern, your GP will refer you to see a gynaecology specialist to arrange further assessment. If the tests are normal, the likelihood of ovarian cancer is extremely low and other options to manage the symptoms can be recommended."
Dr Unsworth is an NHS Community Gynaecology and Menopause Specialist and the Founder of Cambridge Women’s Health Menopause Clinic and menopause supplement Meno8.
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