Ovarian Cancer: Why Symptoms Are Easy to Overlook

Ovarian cancer often does not cause obvious symptoms in its early stages. That is one reason it can be harder to catch than other reproductive cancers.

Many symptoms of ovarian cancer overlap with common, less serious conditions. Because of this, you may not connect them with your ovaries. Knowing what to look for and talking with your gynecologist can help you get answers sooner.

What Is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, the two small organs that produce eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. It can also start in the fallopian tubes or the tissue lining the pelvis, called the peritoneum, since these tissues are closely connected to the ovaries.

There are several types of ovarian cancer, and treatment depends on the type. Most cases start in the cells covering the outer surface of the ovary and form an ovarian tumor there. Less commonly, ovarian cancer develops in the cells that produce eggs or hormones.

Ovarian cancer can occur at any age, but it is most common in women older than age 60.

Do Not Ignore Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

Ovarian cancer symptoms are often vague and easy to mistake for other conditions. They may include:

Abdominal or pelvic pain
Bloating that does not go away
Change in urinary habits, like needing to go more often
Constipation or other digestive changes
Fatigue
Feeling full quickly when eating
Unexplained weight loss

These symptoms may come and go, but they tend to be persistent and different from what is normal for you. If you notice them daily for more than a few weeks, talk with your provider.

“Pay attention to changes that last more than two weeks, even if they seem minor. A simple visit to your physician can rule out something else or catch a problem early enough to treat it effectively.”

Jennifer McEachron, DO, Catholic Health Gynecologist

Are You at Risk for Ovarian Cancer?

Researchers do not fully understand the causes of ovarian cancer, but several factors may increase your risk. You may be at higher risk if you:

Are older than age 60
Carry a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
Have a family history of ovarian, breast or colorectal cancer
Have endometriosis
Have never been pregnant
Have obesity
Started your period before age 12
Take estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy after menopause

Having one or more ovarian cancer risk factors does not mean you will develop ovarian cancer. Likewise, some women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have no known risk factors.

Diagnosing Ovarian Cancer

If you have symptoms of ovarian cancer, tell your primary care provider or gynecologist. They may review your medical history and perform a pelvic exam to learn more about what is causing your symptoms.

There is currently no specific ovarian cancer screening test, so diagnosis usually starts with your symptoms. From there, your provider may order:

Blood test — measures levels of CA-125, a protein that can be elevated in ovarian cancer
Transvaginal ultrasound — uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries and check for masses
CT scan or MRI — creates detailed images to show whether cancer has spread
Biopsy — removes a tissue sample, usually during surgery, to confirm a diagnosis

If testing shows a sign of cancer, additional imaging tests may be performed to see whether it has spread and plan treatment.

Ovarian Cancer Treatment Options

Every person’s cancer treatment plan is different. Your care team will look at your stage of cancer, overall health and personal goals to recommend the approach that is right for you.

Surgery

Most women with ovarian cancer have surgery to remove the tumor. Depending on the stage, your surgeon may remove one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the uterus or nearby lymph nodes. Removing both ovaries will trigger menopause if it has not begun already. “Losing your ovaries or going through early menopause can be a lot to process on top of a cancer diagnosis,” said Dr. McEachron. “We take time to talk through what that means for your body and your life, not just your treatment plan.”

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses medications that enter the bloodstream to kill cancer cells throughout the body. You will either receive the medicine through a vein or take it in pill form. You may need chemotherapy before surgery to shrink the cancer, or after to help prevent the cancer from returning.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy medications attack specific proteins that help cancer cells multiply. Providers may recommend targeted therapy for ovarian cancers with certain genetic changes, like BRCA mutations.

Hormone Therapy

Some ovarian cancers rely on hormones to grow. Medications that block those hormones can help slow or stop the cancer from spreading.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It may be an option for some advanced ovarian cancers or tumors with certain genetic features.

Can You Prevent Ovarian Cancer?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cancer, but a few factors may help lower your risk:

Ask your provider about genetic testing if you have a family history of ovarian, breast cancer or colorectal cancer
Consider your options if you carry a BRCA gene mutation
Keep up with routine gynecologic care
Take birth control pills, which may lower risk with long-term use
Talk with your provider about your personal risk factors

Most importantly, you know your body best. If you notice new or persistent symptoms, do not wait to see if they go away.

“Family history matters more than most people realize,” said Dr. McEachron. “If a parent or sibling has had ovarian, breast cancer or colorectal cancer, tell your physician so you can decide together whether genetic testing makes sense for you.”

Find Care at Catholic Health

Find a Catholic Health physician near you. Or call 866-MY-LI-DOC (866-695-4362).

Learn more about the Women's Health Services at Catholic Health.

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August 6, 2026

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