# Ovarian cancer symptoms: persistent bloating and feeling full

> Source: World Aid Network — https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/symptoms

## 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.

## 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.

## Related pages in this guide

- Overview: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer
- Symptoms: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/symptoms
- CA125 & scans: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/tests
- Treatment options: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/treatment

## 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.

## How you can help

World Aid Network funds cancer treatment for patients who cannot pay in Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. Donate at https://worldaidnetwork.org/appeal/cancer-emergency or https://worldaidnetwork.org/donate?cause=cancer-treatment&appeal=cancer-emergency

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This is general information, not medical advice, published by World Aid Network. Always consult a qualified clinician about your own health.