Ovarian cancer is often described as a “silent” or “whispering” condition. Not because symptoms do not exist, but because early symptoms of ovarian cancer are usually subtle, easily dismissed, and often mistaken for everyday issues many women experience.
Most women don’t ignore the signs, they just don’t realise they’re signs at all.
At first, the symptoms may feel like minor digestive discomfort, hormonal changes or simply the result of a stressful lifestyle. Because of this, many women delay seeking medical advice and only discover the condition at a later stage.
Understanding how ovarian cancer presents and why it is so often overlooked can make a meaningful difference in recognising when something is not quite right.
Unlike some conditions that cause sudden or severe symptoms, ovarian cancer tends to develop quietly. The ovaries are located deep within the female reproductive system, which means early changes are not always obvious.
Instead of clear warning signs, the body sends small, subtle signals over time. These symptoms may come and go or feel mild enough to ignore. Because they do not immediately disrupt daily life, they are often brushed aside.
And that’s exactly why awareness matters.
The ovaries are two small organs located on either side of the uterus. They play an important role in producing eggs and releasing hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones regulate the menstrual cycle and support fertility.
An ovarian tumour refers to an abnormal growth in the ovary. Not all tumours are cancerous. Some tumours remain harmless, while others may develop into ovarian cancer if the cells grow uncontrollably and spread to nearby tissues.
There are different types of ovarian tumours, depending on where the abnormal cells originate:
While the types of ovarian tumours differ, many share similar early symptoms, making them difficult to distinguish without proper medical evaluation.
Because ovarian cancer symptoms overlap with many everyday conditions, they are often misinterpreted.
For example, bloating and abdominal discomfort may be mistaken for indigestion or irritable bowel syndrome. Pelvic pain may be attributed to menstrual cramps. Fatigue can easily be blamed on work stress or lack of sleep.
In addition, hormonal changes during perimenopause or menopause can also cause similar symptoms such as bloating, irregular cycles, and mood changes.
So, when your body starts whispering, it’s easy to assume:
“I’ve just been eating badly.”
“I’m probably just stressed.”
“It’s my hormones.”
And just like that, something important gets delayed.
Ovarian cancer can affect women of all ages, but certain factors may increase the risk:
Having one or more risk factors does not mean a person will develop ovarian cancer. However, it highlights the importance of staying aware of changes in the body.
We all experience bloating or digestive discomfort from time to time. But ovarian cancer symptoms tend to follow a pattern:
That’s the difference. It’s less about what you feel, and more about how long it stays.
You should consider seeking medical advice if you notice:
Trust your instincts. If something feels unusual or continues for several weeks, it is reasonable to have it checked.
Ovarian cancer does not always present with dramatic warning signs. More often, it speaks quietly through subtle, persistent changes.
If something has felt “off” for a while, even in a small way, it may be worth paying closer attention.
At SBCC Children & Women’s Clinic, care is guided by a thoughtful understanding of each woman’s symptoms, concerns, and medical history. The goal is not only to investigate potential conditions, but also to provide reassurance and clarity at every step.
If something doesn’t feel quite right, even subtly so, it may be worth having it checked. Early reassurance can make all the difference.
Ovarian cancer symptoms often develop gradually over weeks or even months. Many women experience these symptoms for some time before seeking medical advice, as they are usually mild and easily mistaken for common digestive or hormonal issues. The key is to pay attention to symptoms that persist, occur frequently, or feel unusual for your body.
Women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, or those who are older may have a higher risk. However, ovarian cancer can still occur in women without these risk factors, which is why awareness of symptoms is important.
Pain associated with ovarian cancer is often felt in the lower abdomen, stomach area, or pelvis (the area between the hips). It may present as a dull ache, pressure, or a sense of discomfort rather than sharp pain. In many cases, it can be persistent and does not go away with usual remedies.
Yes, ovarian cancer can occur in younger women, although it is less common. It is more frequently diagnosed in women over 50, but it can still affect:
While age is a risk factor, ovarian cancer is not limited to older women. Any persistent or unusual symptoms should not be ignored, regardless of age.
Medically Reviewed by Dr Ng Ying Woo
Obstetrics and Gynaecology Specialist