Ovarian cancer is one of the more hidden cancers for women, with many not knowing that they even have it until it has spread. Why is this the case? Well, many of the symptoms are associated with common women’s health issues, such as PMS, periods, endometriosis, and even ovarian cysts. So, many women just assume that the symptoms usually point to something more benign, even if they’ve been through menopause.
So, ladies, it’s important to note that the symptoms that you’re experiencing can point to something else. Here, we’ll guide you through how to spot signs of ovarian cancer when you’ve been through menopause.
Weight Loss
One of the most common warning signs for ovarian cancer is weight loss. Indeed, a lot of post-menopausal ladies would be doing backflips if they’ve lost weight, but unless it’s anticipated or expected, you should make an appointment to see your medical doctor.
Why does this happen? For some women, ovarian cancer can present with loss of appetite, and for others, it may be due to the additional energy that the cancer cells require. So, keep an eye out for unexpected weight loss.
Bloating
For many women, bloating is something that has been happening since they began menstruation, and technically, it’s when the tummy feels full and looks swollen. When it comes to menstruation, it’s due to hormones. When it comes to ovarian cancer, it’s due to ascites. This is simply when fluid accumulates in the abdomen, and this can also occur when cancer cells have spread to the lining of the abdomen. So, if you’ve noticed persistent or more common bloating, talk to your doctor.
Constipation
You’re probably noticing a pattern by now, many of the symptoms are common for women, especially during that time of the month. If you’re post-menopausal, though, persistent constipation needs to be explored, as it can point to ovarian cancer. This is due to the tumor itself, or it can be due to an obstruction caused by swollen lymph nodes in the abdomen.
If it’s been a few years since your last menstrual cycle and you’ve been through the menopause, you shouldn’t be experiencing this, and you need to talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
Urge To Urinate More Regularly
As well as having constipation, it may be the case that you have an urge to urinate more often when you have ovarian cancer. This can be caused by the tumor pressing on the bladder or, again, the lymph nodes in the stomach pressing on this area. This can also look like urinary incontinence, so if you find that you’re suddenly wetting yourself, you need to talk to your doctor.
Vaginal Bleeding
Lastly, if you’ve been through menopause, you shouldn’t have any vaginal bleeding. If you find that you’re suddenly spotting or bleeding after sexual intercourse, this can be a sign that the tumor is rupturing or is irritated. So, any post-menopausal bleeding should be checked out, even if there’s no discomfort.
