Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: be aware of the signs and symptoms

This Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month [March], the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding people to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.

From 2016 – 2020, there were around 200 cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed in Northern Ireland each year. The PHA is urging women to speak to their GP as soon as possible if they notice any of the common symptoms.

Dr Louise Herron, Consultant in Service Development and Screening at the PHA said: “Ovarian cancer is more common in women who have been through the menopause, usually in those over the age of 50, but it can also affect younger women. No matter what age you are, it is so important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer as the earlier ovarian cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat and the better chance of survival.”

Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer may include:

• persistent pelvic or abdominal pain (that’s your tummy and below);
• increased abdominal size/persistent bloating – not bloating that comes and goes;
• difficulty eating or feeling full quickly;
• urinary symptoms (needing to wee more urgently or more often than usual);
• changes in bowel habits;
• extreme fatigue (feeling very tired);
• unexplained weight loss;
• vaginal bleeding after menopause.

Dr Herron added: “Symptoms of ovarian cancer are frequent, happening more than 12 times a month, persistent, and new, meaning they are not normal for you and may have started in the last year. If you do experience any of these symptoms it may not be anything serious but it’s important to contact your GP because finding ovarian cancer early improves the chances of successful treatment.”

For more information on the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer see www.BeCancerAwareNI.info and www.pha.site/OvarianCancer24