Article
Learn the subtle signs of a dangerously silent disease
Though considered rare among all cancers, ovarian cancer is the deadliest of gynecological malignancies—due, in large part, to its notorious silence. During the month of September, we join the NationalOvarian Cancer Coalition and others nationwide in promoting awareness around this potentially devastating disease.
Because early signs of ovarian cancer, if present at all, often go unnoticed or are attributed to less serious conditions, diagnosis typically occurs at advanced, less treatable stages. For this reason, staying attuned to your body and recognizing when something isn’t right is the key to earlier diagnosis and, ultimately, effective treatment.
Red flags
Most cases of ovarian cancer are seen in women over age 55, but it can develop at any age. It sometimes presents with common gastrointestinal issues, such as indigestion, bloating, pain, bowel changes or feeling full quickly.
Other possible symptoms include urinary urgency (feeling of having to go) or frequency, back pain, pain during sex, period changes and extreme fatigue. Although ovarian cancer is an unlikely cause, never dismiss these problems, especially if they are new or unusual for you, get worse or don’t go away. Make an appointment with your ob/gyn as soon as possible.
Just as important as paying attention to your body’s signals is having regular gynecological exams, or “well woman” checkups. These allow your provider to get an overall picture of your health, including new concerns or recent changes.
Unlike some other abdominal or pelvic cancers, ovarian masses themselves are difficult or impossible to feel on regular examination until they are quite large. This makes good communication critical for determining whether certain tests, such as transvaginal ultrasound, may be warranted.
If you’re due for a regular checkup or have any concerns about your gynecological health, call us for an appointment today. You know your body best. Be sure to listen to it closely—this month and always.
Related posts
Looking for more women's health insights?
By the end of their teens, most women are well acquainted with their own menstrual cycle. While some can fill their calendars with a year’s worth of predictable 5-day blocks, others have learned to manage some elements of surprise. Whatever a “normal” period is for you, you’ve probably experienced something out of the norm from time to time—and wondered if you should worry.
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers with appropriate screening. That’s why awareness is so important.The two most important things that women can do to prevent cervical cancer are to get the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination series and to have regular Pap smears and HPV screening.
Up to ten percent of pregnant women experience a condition called gestational diabetes, which, like other forms of diabetes, means the body does not produce enough insulin to properly break down sugars into energy. The exact cause is unknown, but the hormonal changes and weight gain that occur during pregnancy can trigger insulin resistance in some women.