Signs & Symptoms

See your family doctor if:

– you have one or more of these symptoms
– and they last longer than 3 weeks:

  • Infertility or changes in menstruation patterns
  • Swelling or bloating of the abdomen
  • Pelvic discomfort or heaviness
  • Back or abdominal pain
  • Fatigue
  • Gas, nausea, indigestion
  • Change in bowel habits
  • Emptying your bladder frequently
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Weight loss or weight gain
  • Unexplained weight gain and a distended abdomen from fluid build-up

It’s important to know…what you can do

  • Have a vaginal/rectal (bimanual) pelvic exam every year.
  • Let your doctor know if you have had symptoms for more than 3 weeks and ask about:
  1. a vaginal/rectal (bimanual) pelvic exam
  2. a transvaginal ultrasound
  3. a CA-125 blood test

Even if the tests are negative, ask for referral to a gynecologist or a gynecologic oncologist if symptoms persist.

Facts on Ovarian Cancer

  • A Pap smear does NOT detect ovarian cancer— it detects problems with the cervix.
  • The HPV vaccine helps prevent cervical cancer, NOT ovarian cancer.
  • If ovarian cancer is found early and treated,the survival rate is as high as 90%.

Other websites related to cancer and ovarian cancer:

  • barbarav

    Barbara Vanderhyden

    Corinne Boyer Chair in Ovarian Cancer Research at the University of Ottawa – find out more about local research that is being done to overcome ovarian cancer.

  • OttawaRegionalCancerFoundation

    Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation

    For stories, support groups, events and information about the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation.

  • Ovarian Cancer Canada

    Ovarian Cancer Canada

    Great site for further information about Ovarian Cancer