18/03/2026
March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month - know the symptoms.
Early diagnosis saves lives.
If you regularly experience any one or more of these symptoms - even if they are mild - it’s important to contact your GP.
It’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month! Get to know the key signs and symptoms to look out for.
The key symptoms of ovarian cancer are:
- Increased abdominal size and persistent bloating (not bloating that comes and goes)
- Persistent pelvic and abdominal pain
- Difficulty eating and feeling full quickly, or feeling nauseous (sick)
- Unexplained change in bowel habits
- Urinating (weeing) more frequently.
If you have spotted any of these symptoms, do call your GP.
The symptoms of ovarian cancer are often misdiagnosed as IBS or constipation. If you have seen/spoken to your GP three times about persistent bloating, and it hasn't gone away, ask for a referral to a gynaecologist. It is probably something less serious than cancer but always worth getting checked, just in case.
You can also speak to our Ask Eve nurses on 0808 802 0019 or nurse@eveappeal.org.uk for free, expert and confidential information.
Find out more about ovarian cancer on our website: https://eveappeal.org.uk/information-and-advice/gynaecological-cancers/ovarian-cancer/