Ovarian Cancer: Subtle Symptoms Every Woman Should Know

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June 15, 2026

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Ovarian Cancer: Subtle Symptoms Every Woman Should Know

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KIMS-SUNSHINE
Specialist,
15 June, 2026

Ovarian Cancer Subtle Symptoms Every Woman Should Know

The ovaries have long been associated with being the seat of the reproductive system- as it releases a mature egg every month and as it travels down the fallopian tube to the uterus. If it gets fertilised by a sperm cell at this point in time, it can lead to conception and implantation. If not, then the monthly cycle continues to repeat, till menopause is reached. Cancer of the ovaries is a rare one that affects women who are done with menopause.

Talking to a women’s cancer specialist and learning about the subtle early signs of ovarian cancer can help you get diagnosed early- so that you may begin treatment and have a better prognosis in the long term.

Causes of Ovarian Cancer

Like most cancers, ovarian cancer occurs due to spontaneous mutations that begin to accumulate in cells, with advancing age. The most well known mutation is TP53 and most women have this, placing them at high risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Some of the other risk factors associated with this condition include – being over 60 years of age, having mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2- which have been observed in breast, ovarian, colorectal and uterine cancers respectively, suffering from chronic endometriosis, if you have never been pregnant, or have had a baby after 30 years of age, if you have never breastfed the baby or if you are on HRT for postmenopausal symptoms.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

These are some common early signs of ovarian cancer, which are easily ignored, but actually need medical attention-

You may have pain in the abdomen, pelvis or back.
You may feel very bloated, even without a meal.
You may begin to eat less than before because of feeling full with just a little food.
Feeling very tired all the time.
You may have to deal with painful sex- dyspareunia.
There may be abnormal vaginal bleeding.
You may also feel the urge to pee often.

If you notice any of these ovarian cancer symptoms but are not sure what it may be, get in touch with us at KIMS Sunshine Hospital to learn more!

Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer

Doctors rely on imaging and physical examination to understand if there is any issue with any of the abdominal or pelvic organs.

A pelvic exam can check for inflammation or enlarged tumors or masses and any structural changes to organs themselves.
Imaging includes the use of a transvaginal ultrasound, MRI, CT scan or PET scans- to visualise soft tissue in greater detail.
Blood tests to check for a biomarker called CA-125 OR Cancer Antigen -125 test- a protein whose levels are high if cancer is present. If numbers begin to reduce with treatment, it means your regimen is working. But, the CA-125 test is not entirely infallible, as even people with cancer may have normal or low values, or the opposite may be true- leading to high chances of getting false negative or positive results.
A surgical biopsy can confirm an ovarian tumor diagnosis.

Treatment of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer treatment options differ, based on the stage of cancer present. Doctors will try to start with surgical resection of the tumor, if it is highly localised and then go for chemotherapy or radiation therapy- which can kill remaining cancer cells in the region. If ovarian cancer cells are growing because of hormones, then hormone therapy may help in slowing or stopping cancer spread and growth. Sometimes, a combination of these approaches may be used, based on the staging of the cancer.

Conclusion

Ovarian cancer is normally asymptomatic in the early stages and even when symptoms are observed, they are ignored. This can make the cancer grow and by the time it is diagnosed, it may no longer be easily treated. If you are diagnosed at Stage 1, where the cancer cells are found only in the ovaries or fallopian tubes, then surgery may help with total removal of the mass. But, if it has invaded other parts of the abdomen and pelvis- like the bladder, peritoneum, lungs, liver or intestine, then you will need to talk to specialists at the best hospital for ovarian cancer treatment, to get better.

Call us at KIMS Sunshine Hospital today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the earliest symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Early ovarian cancer symptoms often include persistent bloating, abdominal swelling, pelvic pain, feeling full quickly while eating, frequent urination, and unexplained fatigue. These symptoms tend to occur repeatedly and become more noticeable over time.

Which tests are used to diagnose ovarian cancer?

Diagnosis involves a pelvic examination, transvaginal ultrasound, blood tests such as CA-125, and imaging studies including CT scans or MRI. If ovarian cancer is suspected, surgery and tissue biopsy are used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of the disease.

What treatment options are available for ovarian cancer?

Treatment commonly includes surgery to remove the tumour and affected tissues, followed by chemotherapy. Treatment plans are based on tumour characteristics, disease extent and the patient’s overall health with maintenance treatments also being recommended in some cases.

Can family history increase the risk of ovarian cancer?

Yes. A family history of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, or inherited genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increases ovarian cancer risk. Individuals with a strong family history can benefit from genetic counselling, risk assessment and discussions about screening and preventive strategies.

How important is early diagnosis in ovarian cancer treatment outcomes?

Early diagnosis has a major impact on treatment outcomes. Ovarian cancer identified before it spreads beyond the ovaries is more likely to be treated successfully with surgery and other therapies. Earlier detection increases treatment options, improves survival rates and reduces the likelihood of extensive disease progression.