Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

News - 13 March 2023

March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, a time to put ovarian cancer in the spotlight to fast-forward early diagnosis and save lives. Two thirds of women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer too late, when the cancer is harder to treat. Every day in the UK, 11 women die of ovarian cancer, with survival rates in other countries much higher.
Symptom awareness saves lives. Learn and share the symptoms of ovarian cancer today.

What are the main symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer has four main symptoms:

Persistent stomach pain
Persistent bloating
Difficulty eating/feeling full more quickly
Needing to wee more frequently

These can also be symptoms of other, less serious, conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, ovarian cysts and polycystic ovary syndrome. If you’re experiencing these symptoms it doesn’t necessarily mean you have ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer symptoms might also include:

Indigestion
Back pain
Changes in bowel habits (going more often or a lot less)
Unexplained weight loss
Post-menopausal vaginal bleeding
Extreme tiredness

What to do if you are experiencing symptoms of ovarian cancer

If your symptoms are:

Persistent
Severe
Frequent
Out of the ordinary

Make an appointment with your GP as soon as possible. Keep a record of the symptoms you are experiencing and have your notes to hand when you speak to your doctor, to help them make a diagnosis. Use Ovarian Cancer Action's downloadable symptoms diary to help you keep track of your symptoms.

Read NHS information on ovarian cancer.