Ovarian cancer develops in the ovaries, the key reproductive organs in the female reproductive system. Failure to treat this cancer on time can lead to one losing their ovaries. It is important to be aware of the early warning signs of this cancer in order to find suitable treatment options for the same.

Ovarian cancer occurs due to growth of tumors in the ovaries. Statistics show that 20 percent of all ovarian cancer cases can be detected early. It is important to know about the early warning signs of ovarian cancer in order to get effective treatment for the same.

In most cancers, there are hardly any symptoms in the early stages. It is only when the tumor starts to grow that the symptoms start appearing. There are certain early symptoms of ovarian cancer that are evident, and should never be ignored. Some of them include:

1. Abdominal bloating
Bloating in the abdomen is usually misdiagnosed as a gastric problem. Bloating can be accompanied by pain and a feeling of pressure in the abdomen.

2. Fullness in the stomach
Because of abdominal bloating, one may face problems related to eating. After eating, there is a feeling of fullness in the stomach, which is abnormal. Such an abnormal sensation must never be ignored. Some people may find it difficult to eat, which is another early red flag.

3. Urinary symptoms
The growing tumor can put pressure on the urinary bladder, giving rise to symptoms like an increased urge to urinate and wanting to urinate more often than usual. These problems can occur due to various reasons that can result in its misdiagnosis. Seeing a gynecologist is recommended to rule out the risk for ovarian cancer.

4. Fatigue
Extreme tiredness or fatigue is a symptom of ovarian cancer. The tiredness does not go away even after rest. Such a feeling of tiredness is likely to be due to cancer.

5. Stomach problems
Frequent incidents of an upset stomach are a common symptom of cancer. This could be due to the tumor pressing on the digestive organs. Indigestion and heartburn are other common symptoms of ovarian cancer. Constipation is another problem that ovarian cancer patients experience.

6. Pain-related symptoms
Pain in the back and pelvic region, which may start as a dull ache and develop into a severe one, can be due to ovarian cancer. If pain is experienced during sexual intercourse, then this is a serious symptom that should not be ignored.

7. Period changes
Any changes in the menstrual cycle, including increased and irregular bleeding, could be due to ovarian cancer. When period changes are accompanied by any of the other symptoms, then they call for immediate investigation.

8. Muscle weakness
Dermatomyositis is a rare disorder that can occur due to ovarian cancer. This condition can cause rashes, muscle weakness, and inflammation in the muscles.

It is important for women to meet a gynecologist for a checkup if any of these symptoms are observed. Such checkups can help in early detection and treatment, which improves the prognosis of the cancer.