Know the Signs of Ovarian Cancer
9/11/2026
Remembering Lives Lost, Standing With Those Fighting, Protecting Lives Ahead
Ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect early because its symptoms may be subtle or mistaken for common digestive or urinary problems. September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to help women recognize potential warning signs and understand when to consult a healthcare provider.
The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 21,010 women in the United States will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2026, and about 12,450 will die from the disease. Ovarian cancer ranks fifth in cancer-related deaths among women and causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system.
“Ovarian cancer symptoms can be easy to overlook because they may resemble less serious conditions,” said Dr. Parul Mamgain, a board-certified family medicine physician at Primary Care Associates of Laredo. “What is important is recognizing when a symptom is new, occurs frequently or does not go away. Women know their bodies best, and persistent changes should be discussed with a healthcare provider.”
Potential symptoms may include:
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Bloating or an increase in abdominal size
- Feeling full quickly or difficulty eating
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Constipation or other changes in bowel habits
- Back pain
- Fatigue
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Unexplained changes in menstrual bleeding
Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean a woman has ovarian cancer. However, symptoms that occur frequently, represent a change from normal or persist for two weeks or longer should be evaluated.
The likelihood of developing ovarian cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring after menopause. Other factors that may increase risk include:
- A family history of ovarian, breast, colorectal or related cancers
- Inherited genetic changes, including mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes
- Lynch syndrome
- A personal history of breast cancer
- Endometriosis
- Being overweight or obese
- Never having carried a pregnancy to term
- Using estrogen hormone therapy after menopause, particularly for an extended period
“Family health history is especially important,” Dr. Mamgain said. “Women should tell their healthcare provider about cancers diagnosed on both their mother’s and father’s sides of the family. Depending on that history, genetic counseling or testing may be appropriate.”
There is currently no reliable routine screening test for ovarian cancer in women who do not have symptoms and are not at high genetic risk. If symptoms or risk factors raise concern, a healthcare provider may recommend a pelvic examination, imaging such as a transvaginal ultrasound, blood testing or referral to a specialist.
“Annual visits provide an opportunity to review changes in your health, discuss your family history and determine whether further evaluation is needed,” said Dr. Mamgain. “Do not wait for symptoms to become severe before seeking medical attention.”
Talk with your healthcare provider about recommended tests and the costs and benefits of each. To find a primary care provider, visit https://rebrand.ly/zw5rqkf to schedule an appointment.
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