01/09/2025
September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month.
According to Our Way Forward, 21,000 women will be diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer this year. It is the 8th most common cancer among women worldwide, and 6th most common cause of cancer death among women in the US 1 in 91 is the risk for a woman getting ovarian cancer during her lifetime.
Ovarian Cancer Signs & Symptoms
There are a few signs and symptoms that can point to ovarian cancer. As the cancer develops and spreads, these symptoms may become more noticeable. Recognizing the potential signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer may lead to an earlier diagnosis, when it may be more easily treated. This can sometimes be difficult because some of these symptoms are similar to other more common health conditions. Therefore, it is very important to listen to your body and note anything unusual.
Megan’s symptoms were determined to be those “other more common health conditions.” Ovarian cancer (or any cancer) wasn’t considered because of her young age.
You know your body better than anyone, so listen to it.
Symptoms are more likely to be linked to ovarian cancer if they are:
New and began less than 1 year ago
Occur frequently and are experienced more than 12 days per month
Most Common Symptoms:
Bloating
Pelvic/abdominal pain or pressure
Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
Urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency)
Other Symptoms:
Fatigue
Upset stomach or heartburn
Back pain
Constipation
Pain during vaginal s*x
Menstrual changes
Factors That May Increase Risk of Ovarian Cancer
Genetics:
History of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer in immediate family
Personal history of breast cancer
BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
Lynch syndrome (a genetic condition that increases the risk of developing certain types of cancer, especially colorectal and endometrial – Yale University)
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (development of benign polyps in the gastrointestinal tract – National Library of Medicine)
Cowden disease (benign growths most often found on the skin and in the lining of the mouth and nose, but they can appear in other parts of the body as well – cancer.org)
Drugs:
Hormone replacement therapy (treatments that may help relieve the symptoms of perimenopause or menopause)
Fertility drugs
Others:
Advanced age (starting at perimenopause)
Obesity (BMI ≥30)
Endometriosis
Childbirth later in life or never having a full-term pregnancy
Factors That May Reduce Risk of Ovarian Cancer
Fertility-Related:
Childbirth
Tubal ligation (a type of permanent birth control)
Breastfeeding
Drugs:
Oral contraceptives (i.e., birth control pills). Studies have shown the longer you take oral contraceptives, the longer the protection lasts
