Ovarian cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. And the deadly condition could easily put any woman off of bedroom antics. Here’s how to tell if you have the disease.
The NHS stated that women over the age of 50 are more at risk of developing ovarian cancer, as it mainly affects those who’ve been through the menopause.
Notable charity Ovarian Cancer Action explained the disease occurs when abnormal cells multiply in the ovary, creating a tumour.
The ovaries are two small glands that form part of the female reproductive system.
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The ovaries produce the female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone, as well as produce, store and release eggs for reproduction.
The NHS confirm that one symptom of ovarian cancer is feeling pain during sex.
Understandably, painful sex is likely to deter people from performing the intimate act.
A low libido, on the other hand, is often linked to relationship issues, stress or tiredness.
It could also be linked to a reduction in sex hormone levels, or a side effect of medication.
Ovarian cancer symptoms
The main symptoms of ovarian cancer include a swollen tummy, and constantly feeling bloated.
Other signs of the disease consist of discomfort in the tummy or pelvis area.
Additionally, one may feel very full when eating or the person affected may have lost their appetite.
One more common symptom of ovarian cancer is needing to pee more often, or more urgently than usual.
The NHS confirmed that other symptoms include persistent indigestion, or feeling sick, a change in bowel habits, back pain, lethargy and unintentional weight loss.
Speaking of the NHS, it advises people to visit their GP if you’ve felt bloated more than 12 times during a month.
The four most common symptoms of ovarian cancer
Ovarian Cancer Action insist that the four main symptoms are: persistent stomach pain, persistent bloating, difficulty eating or feeling full more quickly, and needing to wee more frequently.
There are three types of ovarian cancer: epithelial, germ cell and sex-cord stromal.
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Epithelial accounts for around 90 percent of ovarian cancer cases, meaning it’s the most common type of ovarian cancer.
The charity highlighted that there’s no reliable, effective screening method for ovarian cancer – something it’s hoping to change.
Ovarian Cancer Action is funding research into the development of the world’s first ovarian screening tool.
Until then, it’s best to keep a record of your symptoms and discuss them with your GP.
A medical practitioner may feel your tummy yo check for any swellings or lumps, and may do an internal examination.
You may be asked to do a blood test, so that your blood can be checked for a substance called CA125.
CA125 is produced by some ovarian cancer cells, and a high level of it in the blood could indicate ovarian cancer.
However, it may also be a sign of other health conditions, which is why further tests will need to be carried out.
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