
Understanding Ovarian Cancer: Symptoms, Risks, and Screening
Ovarian cancer often develops silently, with subtle symptoms that can be mistaken for less serious conditions. Since most women are not at genetic risk they know about nor are routinely screened for ovarian cancer, paying attention to your body and recognizing early signs becomes critical.
Recognizing Symptoms
Ovarian cancer symptoms often present as vague abdominal discomfort, making early detection challenging. Especially in this age of dieting with GLP-1s that can produce many abdominal symptoms! Common signs of ovarian cancer include:
- Persistent bloating or abdominal distention.
- Unexplained weight gain or a larger waistline.
- Pelvic or abdominal pain.
- Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation.
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly.
These symptoms may mimic other conditions, but if they persist or worsen, consult a gynecologist promptly.
Risk Factors and Preventive Measures
While ovarian cancer peaks around age 60, women of all ages should remain vigilant, especially if they have:
- Family history of ovarian or breast cancer: Many ovarian cancers have a hereditary component. Women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations face higher risks.
- Personal history of endometriosis or infertility.
- Hormonal factors: Having a child or using oral contraceptive pills reduces risk, but neither provides full protection. You only need to take oral contraceptives for 10 years to decrease risk.
Screening and Diagnostic Tools
Detecting ovarian cancer involves a combination of tests, as no single method works for all cases. Here’s what’s available for those at high risk or with symptoms:
1. Blood Tests:
- CA-125 Test: Measures levels of cancer antigen 125, a protein often elevated in ovarian cancer. While useful, it isn’t specific to ovarian cancer and may rise due to other conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
- HE4 (Human Epididymis Protein 4): Often used in combination with CA-125, this test improves accuracy in detecting ovarian cancer.
- OVA1 Test: Assesses a combination of proteins to evaluate the likelihood of ovarian cancer in women with a pelvic mass.
- BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genetic Testing: Identifies hereditary risks.
2. Imaging Tests:
- Pelvic Ultrasound: A non-invasive test that uses sound waves to visualize the ovaries and detect abnormalities such as cysts or tumors.
- Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS): Offers a closer and more detailed view of ovarian structures, helping differentiate between benign and malignant masses.
- MRI or CT Scans: Sometimes used for a more comprehensive evaluation, especially when cancer is suspected.
3. Laparoscopic Surgery:
For cases where imaging and blood tests suggest abnormalities, laparoscopic surgery allows direct visualization and biopsy of ovarian tissue, providing a definitive diagnosis.
Why Regular Check-Ups Matter
Routine pelvic exams, while not sufficient to detect ovarian cancer reliably, provide an opportunity to discuss symptoms and risk factors. Combining regular gynecological visits with symptom awareness and appropriate screening improves early detection rates.
Take Action
If you experience persistent symptoms, have a family history of ovarian cancer, or suspect an ovarian cyst, don’t delay seeking medical advice. Early diagnosis significantly improves outcomes.
We welcome new patients at Women’s Health Practice and offer comprehensive testing, including blood panels, imaging, and you may need to be referred for genetic counseling. Call us today to schedule your appointment and take a proactive step in protecting your health.