Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: What Every individual Should Know
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder to shine a light on a cancer that often goes unnoticed until it is advanced. In Australia, ovarian cancer remains one of the most serious gynaecological cancers, largely because it is difficult to detect early and its symptoms can be easy to overlook.
Understanding what ovarian cancer is, recognising possible warning signs, and knowing when to seek medical advice can make a real difference.
Ovarian cancer develops in or around the ovaries and, in many cases, begins in the fallopian tubes. There are several types of ovarian cancer, but the most common form tends to grow quietly at first. Unlike breast or cervical cancer, there is currently no routine screening test for ovarian cancer in people without symptoms. This means early detection often depends on noticing changes in the body and acting on them.
Many people are surprised to learn that ovarian cancer is not completely symptom free in its early stages. Research shows that symptoms are often present but tend to be vague and easy to explain away. They may feel similar to digestive issues, hormonal changes, or the effects of stress and ageing. Because of this, symptoms are often dismissed or managed at home for months before medical advice is sought.
Some of the more common symptoms linked to ovarian cancer include ongoing bloating or a feeling of abdominal swelling, feeling full more quickly than usual when eating, persistent pelvic or lower abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, needing to urinate more often or urgently, unexplained fatigue, or changes in weight, particularly around the abdomen. On their own, these symptoms are common and usually harmless. What matters is when they are new, happen frequently, and do not go away.
Family history is another important part of the picture. People with a close relative who has had ovarian cancer, or with a strong family history of breast cancer, may have a higher risk. In some families, inherited gene mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 increase the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer. Many people are unaware these genes run in their family until a diagnosis occurs. In these situations, genetic counselling can help assess risk and guide monitoring and prevention options.
It is important to see a GP if symptoms persist, worsen, or feel out of the ordinary for your body. This is especially true if there is a family history of ovarian or breast cancer. If symptoms continue despite reassurance, it is reasonable to return for further assessment or seek another opinion. Listening to your body and advocating for yourself is supported by evidence and can lead to earlier diagnosis.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is not about creating fear. It is about encouraging awareness, conversation, and early action. By understanding the signs and knowing when to seek help, we can support earlier detection and better outcomes for those affected.
