Ovarian Cancer Signs, Symptoms, and Diagnosis | Saint John’s Cancer Institute

At the Saint John’s Cancer Institute, personalized care is our top priority as we help you beat ovarian cancer using a multi-disciplinary approach to care, ensuring we treat the entire person and not just the disease. Our care teams are ready to support you.

About Ovarian Cancer

ovarian cancer 3D - microscopic — Ovarian cancer starts in one or both of the ovaries.

A woman’s risk of getting ovarian cancer during her lifetime is about 1 in 78, according to the American Cancer Society. This cancer mainly develops in older women. Knowing common ovarian cancer symptoms and signs can help with early detection. It is one of the most serious types of gynecologic cancer because it often goes undetected until it has spread to other parts of the body, such as the pelvis and abdomen.

Ovarian Cancer begins in the woman’s ovaries. The ovaries produce eggs and hormones, including estrogen and progesterone. Our team at the Saint John’s Cancer Institute understands that personalized care is top of the list when we diagnose and treat ovarian cancer.

Causes of Ovarian cancer

Eight out of ten ovarian cancers occur sporadically, meaning it is not inherited.

20% is related to a genetic mutation, like BRCA, which can be tested for if you have a strong family history.

In both cases, prevention combines mainstream medical options like oral contraceptives as well as integrative lifestyle choices, including exercise, nutrition, and toxin avoidance.

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of ovarian cancer can often be confused with non-cancerous conditions. It is important to follow up with your gynecologist if you feel these symptoms are worsening.

Persistent abdominal bloating and nausea
Loss of appetite or feeling fuller faster
Pressure in the pelvis or lower back
Frequent or urgent urination
Changes in bowl movements
Changes in menstruation

What are the early signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer?

The early signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer are often subtle and easily mistaken for less serious conditions. Recognizing these early signs and symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment, as ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it has reached a more advanced stage.

Early Symptoms:

Ovaria Cancer - Saint John's Cancer Institute — One or more symptoms may present with ovarian cancer.

Bloating: Persistent abdominal bloating is a common early sign.
Pelvic Pain: Discomfort or pain in the pelvic area can also be an early indicator.
Urinary Changes: An urgent need to urinate or increased frequency may occur.

These early symptoms differ from more advanced signs of ovarian cancer, which may include more pronounced pain, significant weight loss, or noticeable abdominal swelling due to large tumors.

Advanced Symptoms:

Severe Pain: As the cancer progresses, pain in the lower abdomen or back can intensify.
Digestive Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite become more apparent.
Breathing Difficulties: If the cancer spreads to the lungs, breathing problems may develop.

Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer

A woman is at an increased risk of ovarian cancer if she:

Endometriosis — Women may be at increased risk of ovarian cancer having a history of endometriosis or cancer among other conditions.

Has a family history or personal history of cancer or endometriosis
The BRCA1 & BRCA2 genetic mutation
Started menstruating at an early age (before 12)
Has never given birth
Had her first child after 30
Experienced menopause after 50
Never took oral contraceptives
Infertility
Is obese
Has had hormone replacement therapy

Screening and Clinical Diagnosis

Ovarian cancer is most often detected in later stages by biopsy of tissue or fluid. A pelvic exam, CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis, as well as a CA 125 blood test are ways to help in diagnosing ovarian cancer.

Our integrative approach to cancer care employs the fundamentals of functional medicine analysis in order to assess for the root cause of ovarian cancer, whether there is an inherited genetic component or environmental in origin. The “environment” includes lifestyle choices, including personal habits, nutrition, toxin exposure and exercise routine. This forms the basis for diagnosis towards functional integrative holistic treatment involving mainstream 21-century treatment and natural support and cancer-fighting health optimization.

Detection Methods:

Pelvic Examination: A doctor can detect abnormalities by feeling the ovaries and surrounding organs.
Imaging Tests: Transvaginal ultrasound and CT scans can help visualize tumors, assessing their size and extend of spread.
Blood Tests: The CA-125 test measures a protein level that can be elevated in ovarian cancer, though it is not definitive.
Symptom Evaluation: Persistent symptoms such as bloating, pelvic pain, or changes in bowel habits often prompt further investigation.
Biopsy: If imaging or blood tests suggest cancer, a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis by examining tissue samples.

Early detection is challenging because symptoms are often subtle, but these methods collectively help identify ovarian cancer and determine the best treatment approach. Regular check-ups and being aware of potential symptoms are crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.

Our integrative approach to cancer care employs the fundamental of functional medicine analysis in order to assess for root cause of ovarian cancer, whether there is a inherited genetic component or environmental in origin. The “environment” includes lifestyle choices, inclusive of personal habits, nutrition, toxin exposure and exercise routine. This forms the basis for diagnosis towards functional integrative holistic treatment involving mainstream 21 century treatment and natural support and cancer-fighting health optimization.

What Organ Does Ovarian Cancer Spread to First?

Ovarian cancer often spreads first to nearby organs within the pelvis.

Typical Spread Pattern for Ovarian Cancer:

Local Spread: The cancer typically affects the bladder and rectum initially.
Abdominal Spread: It can then move to the lining of the abdomen, called the peritoneum, and nearby lymph nodes.
Advanced Stages: As the disease progresses, it may reach more distant organs, such as the liver or lungs.

Does Ovarian Cancer Spread Fast?

Ovarian cancer can spread quickly, making early detection crucial. Initially, it often spreads within the pelvis and abdomen before showing clear symptoms. The speed of progression can vary, with some types of tumors growing rapidly, which increases the urgency for treatment. Subtle symptoms, such as bloating, pelvic pain, or changes in bowel habits, might indicate that the cancer is spreading. Paying prompt attention to these signs is vital, as early intervention can slow the progression and help manage the disease more effectively. Regular check-ups and being aware of potential symptoms are key to catching ovarian cancer early.

Does Ovarian Cancer show up in blood work?

Ovarian cancer can sometimes be detected through blood work, but it’s not always a definitive method.

Key Test:

CA-125 Blood Test: This test measures the level of a protein that is often elevated in women with ovarian cancer. However, it’s important to note that elevated CA-125 levels can also result from non-cancerous conditions, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
Limitations: Because of these potential overlaps, CA-125 alone cannot confirm ovarian cancer.
Complementary Testing: Doctors typically use blood work in combination with imaging tests, such as ultrasounds or CT scans, and a thorough evaluation of symptoms to diagnose ovarian tumors.

Monitoring for symptoms like pelvic pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits, along with regular check-ups, is crucial.

Treatment of Ovarian Tumors

You may receive more than one type of treatment for your cancer, depending on several factors, including the grade of the tumor, where it is located and whether the cancer has spread to other parts of your body.

Before we set up a specific treatment plan for your ovarian cancer we will take the following into account:

Your age, overall health and medical history
The extent of the disease
Your tolerance of specific medicines, procedures or therapies
Expectations for the course of the disease
Your treatment preferences

We will discuss the options available with you so that you are as informed as possible when making the decision.

Treatment typically includes surgery, chemotherapy, biological therapies, or a combination of these, depending on the cancer’s stage. Surgical intervention at the Saint John’s Cancer Institute utilizes cutting-edge robotic-assisted technology. Fertility-sparing surgery is available under certain circumstances.

Follow-up

Ovarian cancer patients should follow routine examination including scheduled pelvic exams, lab tests and imaging as needed.

Learn About Ovarian Cancer Treatment Options.

Ovarian Cancer 101 Webinar

Everything you need to know abount ovarian cancer, with Steven A. Vaselev, MD, provides informattion about signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, and the most advanced treatments.