During  the summer of 2007, the American Cancer Society and other similar organizations published findings that symptoms such as unexpected bloating, gas, or a feeling of fullness; fatigue, menstrual abnormalities, abdominal or pelvic pain, sudden urge and/or frequent urination and sudden changes in food habits such as difficulty in consuming food or feeling full too quickly may be early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

All women should monitor the early symptoms of ovarian cancer in order to have ovarian cancer diagnosed as early as possible, if at risk. If these symptoms last for more than two to three weeks, women should seek advice from their doctor.

Although symptoms such as menstrual irregularities or pelvic pain don’t always point to ovarian cancer, being aware of the early symptoms of ovarian cancer can help save lives. Keep in mind there is currently no reliable medical screening exam for the early detection of ovarian cancer.

If you experience sudden or unusual symptoms, visit your doctor immediately. Follow-up with transvaginal ultrasound,  bimanual pelvic exam and a Ca125 blood test may be required to rule out early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

At high risk to develop ovarian cancer are women who have been found to have BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, did not use birth control pills, have never been pregnant,  and who were found to be afflicted with breast cancer before they reach the age of 50.

Some women have higher risks of contracting ovarian cancer. Among the classes of women at elevated risk are Ashkenazi Jews, women with at least two relatives diagnosed with ovarian cancer, those exposed to fertility drugs, and those over 50 years of age.  For these women, it is even more important to be monitored regularly for early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

Having regular gynecological check-ups are important for any woman’s health.  Immediate medical attention should be sought for symptoms that are present for greater than a few weeks. It is also important to realize that what may seem to be early symptoms of ovarian cancer may be something else entirely.

These symptoms can also indicate ovarian cysts, irritable bowel syndrome, or another condition that a medical examination would be able to detect.

It is very important for women to know the early symptoms of ovarian cancer, in order to stop this deadly disease in its tracks. Since more than 6% of cancer deaths in women are a result of ovarian cancer, women and their doctors must remain vigilant at all times.

Early Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer is from Ovarian Cyst Answers

Menstrual irregularities, such as painful periods and abnormal bleeding may be an indication of ovarian cysts, especially if there is no prior history of irregularities. This could also mean a longer or shorter than usual menstrual period, an absent menstruation, or an irregular menstruation. Spotting or light bleeding can occur when symptoms of ovarian symptoms manifest. Unexplained weight gain may be another symptom of ovarian cysts.

Pelvic pain, such as dull aching in the lower back and thighs are common ovarian cyst symptoms. This pain may begin shortly before or after a period. It may also occur during intercourse or strenuous exercise.  Pain and pressure both in the abdomen and in the pelvic area can be caused by the size, bleeding, bursting or twisting of a cyst. This can irritate the abdominal tissues and block the flow of blood to the cyst.

The symptoms of pregnancy are much the same as the symptoms of ovarian cysts. You must look for symptoms outside the common pregnancy symptoms to see the difference between the two. Infertility is one of the common symptoms present with ovarian cysts.

Pain, fullness, or pressure in the abdomen often accompanies ovarian cysts. This pain may start and stop suddenly, and may be severe and sharp. There may also be abdominal bloating or swelling. In addition, pain or pressure during bowel movements including problems passing urine as well as pressure on the rectum or bladder may be a sign of ovarian cysts developing.

Not all ovarian cysts point to a crisis, in fact, the majority of them eventually disappear on their own. However, when there are very strong ovarian cyst symptoms such as sudden/sharp abdominal pain, vomiting, or fainting then it is a serious situation which needs immediate medical intervention.

Ovarian cyst symptoms make it difficult for a general doctor to detect a cyst and they rarely make a diagnosis based on them. While locating a cyst based on symptoms is not impossible, the majority of ovarian cysts are found not because of ovarian cyst symptoms, but as a result of annual Pap smears.

Ovarian Cyst Symptoms is from Ovarian Cyst Answers