In short
Ovarian cancer is sometimes called silent, but it does have symptoms. See a GP if bloating, pelvic pain, feeling full quickly or needing to pee more often happen most days for three weeks. There is no NHS screening programme for average-risk women.
These symptoms are common and usually benign. Persistence is the clue: most days, for three weeks, and new for you. A smear test does not look at the ovaries.
What symptoms last three weeks?
GPs use persistence, not a single bloated evening, as the trigger to test.
- Bloating that does not come and go with a period
- Feeling full quickly or losing appetite
- Pain in the tummy or pelvis
- Needing to pee more often or more urgently
Why is ovarian cancer found late?
There is no national screening test. CA125 and ultrasound are used after symptoms. Published UK figures show around 85% of diagnoses at stage 3 or 4. Stage 1 five-year survival is over 90% — which is why three weeks of symptoms is the threshold to act.
Does a smear test pick up ovarian cancer?
No. Cervical screening checks the cervix. A recent normal smear does not explain persistent bloating.
What are the key takeaways?
- Persistent bloating, pelvic pain, early fullness or urinary urgency most days for three weeks should be checked.
- There is no NHS ovarian screening programme for average-risk women.
- A smear test does not screen for ovarian cancer.
- Early-stage survival is high; most cases are still found later.
Care like this is out of reach for millions
The diagnosis, screening and treatment described here are routine in the UK. In Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia, poverty puts them out of reach — so a treatable cancer too often becomes a fatal one. World Aid Network funds treatment through locally-licensed oncologists for patients who cannot pay.
Frequently asked questions
Is bloating before a period ovarian cancer?
Cyclical bloating with a period is common. Bloating that is new, on most days, and lasts three weeks should be checked.
Can you feel an ovarian tumour?
Not usually yourself. Do not wait to feel a lump. Ultrasound is how masses are seen.
Does HRT cause ovarian cancer?
Some studies link longer HRT use with a small rise in risk. HRT decisions are individual and should be made with a clinician.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. It was reviewed by the World Aid Network editorial team for accuracy against NHS and World Health Organization sources. Always speak to a GP or qualified clinician about your own health.