Held each year in February to educate Australians on ovarian cancer, and raise awareness by sharing the stories of real women affected by the disease.

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is held each year in Australia to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, to share the stories of real women affected by the disease, to highlight the risk factors for ovarian cancer and educate Australians on ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment.

There is no early detection test for ovarian cancer, so all women need to be aware of the symptoms. The most commonly reported symptoms for ovarian cancer are:

• Increased abdominal size or persistent abdominal bloating
• Abdominal or pelvic (lower tummy) pain
• Feeling full after eating a small amount
• Needing to urinate often or urgently

Additional Symptoms

• Changes in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Excessive fatigue
• Lower back pain
• Indigestion or nausea
• Bleeding after menopause or in-between periods
• Pain during sex or bleeding after

It is important to remember all the symptoms mentioned can be caused by other, less serious medical conditions. However, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, which are persistent and troublesome, you should see your doctor. They will be able to examine you and if necessary, do further tests to find the cause of your problems.

You know your body better than anyone else, so always listen to what your body is saying and trust your instincts.

Track your symptoms in our symptom diary and take this record with you to your doctor.

Reference : https://www.ovariancancer.net.au/page/155/ovarian-cancer-awareness-month