When it is in its earliest stages, ovarian cancer will sometimes give you minor pain symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, many women ignore these symptoms and by the time they report their condition to their doctor the ovarian cancer has spread to other parts of the body. According to the American Cancer Society more than nine out of every 10 women who report their early symptoms are successfully treated for ovarian cancer.
Pelvic Pain
One of the more common pain symptoms associated with ovarian cancer is pelvic pain. This pain originates in the pelvic region and may spread to the lower back; sometimes it radiates down the legs. It could start out as a dull and achy kind of pain that will come and go, but over time it may develop into a more persistent and chronic pain that could occasionally cause sharp pains in the pelvic region.
Pain During Intercourse
One of the more noticeable traits of the pain associated with ovarian cancer is pain during intercourse. This is primarily due to the pain that is generated in the pelvic area, but it can be exaggerated by pain felt in the abdominal region, as well. Pain during intercourse could be felt before any persistent pain is felt in the pelvic region, so it is important to report this pain to your doctor.
Abdominal Discomfort
Some of the pain associated with ovarian cancer is due to a combination of other symptoms. The bloating that occurs because of gas can create severe abdominal cramps and pain. This pain may continue for long periods of time, or it may be felt in short bursts that can be very uncomfortable. Abdominal pain may also lead to nausea and possibly vomiting.
Significance
It is important to remember that many of the early symptoms of ovarian cancer can mimic other, less significant conditions. Back pain and pelvic pain can easily be dismissed as pain after physical activity, and abdominal discomfort can be looked at as indigestion from a meal or even symptoms of the flu. A combination of these painful symptoms that persist for two or three weeks is an indication that you need to get to a doctor immediately. The earlier ovarian cancer is detected, the better your chances of benefiting from treatment.
Continued Follow-up
After you have received treatment for ovarian cancer and your doctor has determined that you are no longer in danger, you will still need to submit to follow-up examinations on a regular basis potentially for the rest of your life. If you begin to notice any of the pain symptoms associated with ovarian cancer after you have been treated, report these symptoms to your doctor immediately.
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