A woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age. In most cases, ovarian cancer is diagnosed after it has progressed to an advanced stage. That’s mainly because women tend to mistake the early signs of ovarian cancer for minor ailments. The disease is mostly treatable when detected in the early stages, so every woman must be aware of the various early signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. Here are a few of them:

1. Chronic pain
Pain in the abdomen, pelvis, and/or lower back that lasts for up to three weeks is one of the most common early symptoms of ovarian cancer. Pain in the lower abdomen feels like period cramps, so most women don’t associate it with a serious problem like ovarian cancer. It’s also important to know that persistent abdominal pain isn’t always a cause for concern. It can also be caused by stress or issues in the gastrointestinal tract.

2. Abnormal bladder function
It’s natural for women to link bladder-related issues to a urinary tract infection (UTI). However, urinary problems are also an early warning symptom of ovarian cancer. If ovarian cancer is responsible for urinary problems, then symptoms will likely include pressure or pain in the bladder and frequent urination. It’s advisable to see a doctor if these symptoms continue for several days.

3. Bloating
Bloating is also a common early symptom of ovarian cancer. Although feeling bloated is normal during a woman’s menses, persistent bloating that lasts up to around three weeks is alarming. Also, if bloating is accompanied by abdominal distension, then it’s a potential sign of ovarian cancer. However, it is important to keep in mind that swelling may also occur due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, and ascites, among other problems.

4. Constipation
Another common symptom of ovarian cancer is constipation. It’s a condition in which the frequency of bowel movement reduces and stool becomes difficult to pass. It’s vital to note that constipation is a common gastrointestinal issue and can be linked to a variety of health conditions. However, if it doesn’t seem to go away even after taking medication or other forms of treatment, then it may be a sign of a major problem like ovarian cancer.

5. Difficulty eating
In the early stages of ovarian cancer, many women experience a loss of appetite. They feel full quickly and have difficulty eating the same amount of food they used to before. This can also lead to weight loss.

It is crucial to note that the key to detecting ovarian cancer early is to monitor how long the symptoms last. Most women experience these symptoms for several months before receiving an ovarian cancer diagnosis. Hence, if the symptoms persist for several weeks, then it may be time to see a doctor.