7 Symptoms of Cancer That Women Usually Ignore

While cancer screenings are highly effective, some types of cancer might not be detected through just exams or tests. In fact, there is still no regular screening test for ovarian cancer, which is the deadliest of gynecologic cancers. Therefore it’s essential to know your health status, risks, and family history, as well as be aware of subtle symptoms that may indicate something serious. 

THough cancer tests are highly effective, it's also important for patients to be in touch with their own body and understand their own symptoms. We know ourselves best, and if there is a sign which is new or alarming, it's complicated for a doctor to know without being told. Let’s review some signs of cancer every woman should always be on the lookout for. 

1. Chronic pelvic pain 

If women have any constant bloating or any abnormal pelvic pain, they should have it checked out. Any new symptoms that happen on a frequent or repetitive basis need to be evaluated. Sometimes, cancer can cause pelvic pain and bloating, so it’s best not to ignore these symptoms. 

2. Irregular periods 

Irregular periods may actually be a sign of cancer, including periods that go from spotting or even regular flow a few days in between periods, having only spotting for a period, having excessively heavy periods, going through more feminine products that usual, bleeding after sex, or having a period or spotting years after having stopped your period.

3. Sudden weight gain 

Unexplained weight gain and changes in bowel habits can be minor symptoms of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer symptoms can be difficult to detect. Women can readily reject changes in bowel habits and weight gain by blaming them on menopause, aging, or a poor diet.

If these symptoms last more than a few weeks, consult your doctor, regardless of your family history.

4. Chronic fatigue 

Constant tiredness could be an indication of cancer, regardless of how much sleep, rest, or coffee you get. You may lack motivation and find yourself dozing frequently throughout the day.

Schedule regular medical checks with your primary care physician, and make sure you have screening tests including pap smears, mammograms, colonoscopies, and bone density tests according to current medical guidelines.

5. A new type of headache 

Probably everyone has ever experienced an accidental headache at some point of their lives. And many people have headaches, sometimes daily, weekly or monthly. In most cases, those headaches have the same patterns. But if you experience a new headache you've never experienced before, even if it's a minor headache, it's worth being evaluated. It could be caused by a brain tumor that creates increased pressure in the brain or interferes with absorption and distribution of cerebrospinal fluid, which can contribute to headaches. 

6. Bloating 

One of the hallmarks of ovarian cancer is bloating and pain/pressure from the pubic bone to below the ribcage that lasts more than two weeks. So, if you have persistent pain in that area, schedule an appointment with your gynecologist as soon as possible.  

7. Unusual bleeding 

Vaginal or rectal bleeding is often ignored by women. This could be an indication of a worrisome process like uterine or colon cancer. These symptoms can often be scary and women might not want to admit that they require further testing.

It's best to tell your doctor if you're experiencing bleeding in places where it shouldn't be. Yearly checkups and building a rapport with your internist and gynecologist is your best bet. Make sure you get all of your age-appropriate screenings and provide your doctor with a detailed family history.