Your Self chec™
Ovarian Cancer Guide


Until recently doctors thought that early-stage ovarian cancer rarely produced any symptoms, and there was no way to detect it early. We chose to include Ovarian cancer because new evidence has shown many women do have symptoms before the disease has spread. Being aware of these symptoms may lead to earlier detection of Ovarian cancer, before it becomes life altering.

The following symptoms may be caused by ovarian cancer or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to check with a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms and if they persist.

General abdominal or pelvic discomfort and/or pain (gas, indigestion, nausea, pressure, swelling, bloating, cramps)
Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or urinary urgency and frequent urination
Loss of appetite
Unexplained weight loss or gain
Clothes fitting tighter around your waist
Pain during intercourse
Irregular periods
Abnormal bleeding from the vagina
A persistent lack of energy
Low back pain

The symptoms of ovarian cancer tend to mimic those of other conditions, including digestive disorders. With a digestive disorder, they tend to come and go. With ovarian cancer the symptoms are constant and will gradually worsen.

If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor. Even if your symptoms are non-specific, it is better to be safe than sorry.

If you have a Self chec™ caring kit don’t forget to attach a yearly Self chec™ reminder sticker to your date book to remind you to schedule your yearly check-up.

You can also set up a free yearly reminder on the Self chec™ Web site. It's easy, just click the Green Box on the right and fill in the blanks. Remember, it could save your life.

IMPORTANT: The information on the cancer pages of this site was culled by the director of Self chec and initially reviewed by the folks at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, based on the newest information from the national cancer advisory organizations, including, but not limited to, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and American Cancer Society. We recognize that the national cancer advisory organizations sometimes do not agree about specific cancer guidelines, often making it confusing to the public about what to do. That is why we are asking you to err on the side of caution by always consulting a healthcare professional to advise you in the healthy choices you will make. Thank you.

This page was last updated on October 20, 2008

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