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Bloating. A feeling of fullness. Constipation. All of these can be symptoms of ovarian cancer. They can also be the result of a bad meal.

So, how do you distinguish between a simple case of indigestion and something more serious?

We talked with , associate professor in Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, to learn more. Here are four things she wants every woman to know about ovarian cancer symptoms.

Don¡¯t ignore vague symptoms

Symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague, but that doesn¡¯t mean you should dismiss them. Whether it¡¯s a feeling of being bloated all the time, a constant sense of pressure in your pelvis, or just noticing that clothes feel tighter even though you can¡¯t eat as much, pay attention to how long you experience these symptoms to determine whether they warrant a visit to the doctor.

¡°If something lasts for weeks and won¡¯t go away ¡ª even with medication ¡ª you need to let your doctor know,¡± Soliman says.

Here are three of the most common ovarian cancer symptoms:

• Bloating: Take note if it seems constant, doesn¡¯t come and go, and can¡¯t be explained by occasionally eating gas-producing foods. Tumors metabolize some of the nutrients you ingest, so your face may also appear thinner while your abdomen grows larger.
• Abdominal discomfort: It could feel like acid reflux, a constant pain or a dull ache. This could also feel like pelvic pressure, which causes more-frequent urination.
• Feeling of fullness: You can¡¯t eat as much anymore, but your clothes still feel tight and you¡¯re gaining weight. You may also be constipated.

Pay attention if you¡¯re post-menopausal

Most, but not all, cases of ovarian cancer are diagnosed in post-menopausal women. So, if you haven¡¯t had a cycle in years, take note if you¡¯re suddenly experiencing symptoms traditionally associated with menstruation, such as bloating, constipation or weight gain.

¡°The average age at the time of ovarian cancer diagnosis is between 50 and 60,¡± Soliman says. ¡°So the normal hormonal fluctuations that can cause these symptoms in menstruating women are often no longer a factor.¡±

Ask for a diagnostic imaging scan

If you¡¯re enduring persistent abdominal pain or pelvic discomfort, ask your doctor for a CT scan or another type of diagnostic imaging to determine the cause.

¡°Pelvic pain will generally get you a pelvic ultrasound, while pain in your upper abdomen will get you some kind of GI workup,¡± says Soliman. ¡°This is to rule out gallstones and acid reflux.¡±

Be persistent

The most important thing to do if you suspect you might have ovarian cancer is to persist. Find a doctor who takes your concerns seriously, and keep pushing for answers until your questions are satisfied.

¡°Ovarian cancer symptoms are notoriously vague, but you know your own body best,¡± Soliman says. ¡°So be persistent about advocating for yourself.¡±

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