Symptoms and Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be difficult to recognize. In fact, the disease usually doesn’t cause any symptoms in its early stages. That’s why it’s important to be aware of your risk factors and to consult your physician if something doesn’t seem right.

Ovarian cancer symptoms include:

  • Pain in the pelvis or abdomen
  • Feeling bloated
  • Urinating frequently
  • Feeling full quickly when eating
  • Not feeling hungry
  • Losing or gaining weight
  • Feeling very tired
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding that occurs after menopause or does not seem related to a period

Experiencing these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean that you have ovarian cancer. Many other benign conditions can cause abdominal discomfort or gastrointestinal problems. However, it’s always good to make an appointment with your physician if you are concerned. Mention that you are worried about ovarian cancer and ask that they conduct a thorough evaluation.

Vaginal bleeding after menopause is easy to ignore but is never normal. Be sure to see your ob-gyn as soon as possible and tell them if post-menopausal bleeding begins.

What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer?

There are two primary risk factors for ovarian cancer: older age and family history.

Many cancers, not just ovarian cancer, are more likely to develop in older adults. As our body ages, our cells become more susceptible to mutations that can lead to uncontrolled, malignant growth. Consequently, the majority of ovarian cancers occur in women who are over the age of 50, with many occurring in women in their 60s.

Having a family history of ovarian cancer is another significant risk factor for the disease. You are at higher risk of ovarian cancer if a family member, such as your mother, sister, daughter, or grandmother has been diagnosed with it. If more than one member develops cancer, this may indicate a genetic cause, which means your likelihood of also getting cancer is higher.

 

Inherited mutations

Sometimes, when ovarian cancer runs in a family, it is caused by inherited mutations or genetic syndromes. BRCA mutations are known to cause ovarian cancer as well as breast cancer and can be passed on through either parent.

Similarly, some ovarian cancers are caused by Lynch syndrome, an inherited condition that predisposes patients to developing cancer, especially endometrial and colon cancers.

If you have multiple relatives with ovarian cancer, or with other cancers such as breast, endometrial or colon cancer, a genetic mutation may be the cause.

Learn more about how Siteman helps patients and families coping with inherited genetic mutations.

What’s my risk of getting ovarian cancer?

The best way to evaluate your risk of ovarian cancer is to have a conversation with your ob-gyn. However, there are also online tools you can use to quickly assess your risk and start a conversation with your physician later on.

Your Disease Risk™ is an effective tool that was developed by physicians and scientists right here at Siteman. It can provide you with an estimation of your risk, as well as targeted suggestions to help you manage it.