September was Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society, “Ovarian cancer accounts for about 3% of cancers among women, but it causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system.” This is because symptoms of ovarian cancer are rarely noticed until the cancer has become advanced – giving it the nickname “the silent killer.”
Ovarian cancer symptoms often look like menstrual cycle problems or other common, harmless issues that women can experience. However, cancerous symptoms tend to be persistent and do not go away on their own.
Common symptoms of ovarian cancer most often include the following:
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Feeling full very quickly
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Back pain
- Spotting or irregular menstruation behavior
- Fatigue
Continue reading for more information about how these common symptoms could point to cancer. If you ever feel that something isn’t right or have any questions, contact your well woman physician immediately.