Ovarian cancer is currently the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. There is hope, though. Researchers continue to search for early detection tools and better treatment options for this disease. In the meantime, the best thing to do is become educated about the symptoms.

Many women are not aware that the Pap test does not detect ovarian cancer. In fact, there is no consistently reliable screening test for ovarian cancer. The only tool available for the general public to detect ovarian cancer is awareness of the common signs and symptoms of the disease.

Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect, partly due to the fact that the ovaries are deep within the abdominal cavity. The most common signs and symptoms that are described by women who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer are bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, trouble eating or feeling full quickly, and feeling the need to urinate urgently or often. If a woman experiences one or more of these symptoms for two weeks or longer, she should see her doctor.

The majority of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are over the age of 60. After the age of 65, it may be determined that an annual Pap test is no longer necessary. Patients often interpret this to mean that they do not need to visit their gynecologist annually. However, there is more to a gynecology appointment than a Pap test, and women should still have an annual pelvic exam.

Learn the symptoms and share with others. With action, there is hope.

Source: National Ovarian Cancer Coalition. For more information, visit Ovarian.org.