Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent killer,” but that nickname can be misleading. While symptoms are frequently subtle, they are not nonexistent. Learning to recognize early warning signs can significantly improve outcomes.

In 2024, Canada reported approximately 2,800 new cases of ovarian cancer and about 1,750 deaths, underscoring the seriousness of this disease. Like many cancers, ovarian cancer is far more treatable when detected early. Unfortunately, it is often diagnosed at advanced stages because symptoms are mistaken for less serious conditions.

The key message? Awareness matters.

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Understanding Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer develops when abnormal cells in the ovaries grow uncontrollably and form malignant tumors. It most commonly affects post-menopausal women, but cases are increasingly diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s as well.

One of the biggest challenges with ovarian cancer is the lack of reliable screening tools for the general population:

• Pap smears do not detect ovarian cancer (they screen for cervical cancer).

• The CA-125 blood test may be elevated in ovarian cancer, but it can also be normal in early stages or elevated due to non-cancerous conditions.

• Imaging tests are typically performed only after symptoms appear.

Because of this, recognizing persistent changes in your body becomes especially important.

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Key Symptoms to Watch For

1. Persistent Bloating

Occasional bloating is common — especially around menstruation or after certain foods. However, ovarian cancer–related bloating is different.

Warning signs include:

• Bloating that lasts more than three weeks

• Abdominal swelling that doesn’t fluctuate

• A feeling of tightness or pressure in the abdomen

Some women describe it as feeling “pregnant” due to abdominal expansion caused by fluid buildup or tumor growth.

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2. Lower Abdominal or Pelvic Pain

Menstrual cramps are normal. But persistent pelvic or lower abdominal pain that:

• Lasts longer than three weeks

• Occurs outside of your menstrual cycle

• Feels new or unusual for you

should not be ignored.

This pain may feel like pressure, dull aching, or constant discomfort. Any new, ongoing pelvic pain deserves medical evaluation.

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3. Difficulty Eating or Feeling Full Quickly

A reduced appetite or feeling full after eating only small amounts of food is another early symptom.

Watch for:

• Early satiety (feeling full very quickly)

• Loss of appetite lasting several weeks

• Unexplained weight loss

Because these symptoms overlap with digestive issues, they are often dismissed. However, when persistent, they warrant attention.

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4. Increased Urinary Urgency or Frequency

If you suddenly notice:

• Needing to urinate more often

• Feeling urgent pressure to urinate

• No increase in fluid intake

it may be due to a growing mass pressing on the bladder.

Unlike urinary tract infections, this symptom typically occurs without burning or pain during urination.

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Why These Symptoms Are Often Missed

These warning signs overlap with:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Hormonal changes

• Menstrual discomfort

• Stress-related digestive issues

Because the symptoms are common and vague, many women delay seeking care. However, the pattern matters: persistent, new, and worsening symptoms lasting more than three weeks should be evaluated.

Early-stage ovarian cancer has significantly better survival rates compared to late-stage diagnosis.

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When to See a Doctor

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

• One or more of the listed symptoms

• Symptoms that are new for you

• Symptoms occurring almost daily for over three weeks

• A family history of ovarian, breast, or related cancers

Your provider may recommend pelvic imaging, blood tests, or referral to a specialist if necessary.

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Risk Factors to Be Aware Of

While ovarian cancer can occur without clear risk factors, higher risk is associated with:

• Age (especially over 50)

• Family history of ovarian or breast cancer

• BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations

• Never having been pregnant

• Endometriosis

Knowing your family history and discussing it with your doctor is an important preventive step.

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Final Thoughts: Awareness Is Protection

Ovarian cancer is serious — but it is not completely silent.

Persistent bloating.
Unusual pelvic pain.
Feeling full too quickly.
Frequent urination.

These are signals, not inconveniences.

Listening to your body and seeking evaluation early can make a life-saving difference. Share this information with the women in your life — mothers, sisters, daughters, friends. Awareness empowers early action, and early action saves lives.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding symptoms or concerns.