Ovarian Cancer

Causes, Symptoms and information

The Australian GP Network is working with community groups, general practice and not-for-profits to raise awareness of Ovarian Cancer and support efforts to develop a reliable detection method.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumour in one or both ovaries.

common epithelial type (90% of cases) that arises from the cells on the outside of the ovary
germ cell type (around 4% of cases) that arises from the cells which produce eggs
rare stromal type arising from supporting tissues within the ovary

Cancer Council Information page

Symptoms?

There are often no obvious signs of ovarian cancer, however you may have one or more of the following symptoms:

abdominal bloating
difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
frequent or urgent urination
back, abdominal or pelvic pain
constipation or diarrhoea
mensural irregulartities
tiredness
indigestion
pain during intercourse
unexplained weight loss or weight gain

These symptoms can be caused by other conditions but if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your local doctor.

Cancer Council Information Page

Community Support

If you have been diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer, there are a number of organisations that can provide you with support, both online and face to face

Ovarian Cancer Australia support groups

Ovarian Cancer Australian Pschosocial Services