Ovarian cancer

33 year old never had a pregnancy, unexplained vertility problems. Had pelvic pain for nearly 1.5, last scan was 1 year ago. Blood test came back normal. My symptoms have gotten worse over the 1.5 years. My tummy is very bloated. The bloat gets bigger somedaysbut is always there. Over the last 3 months my pain level has increased it is constant bloat constant pain. I'm struggling to eat. I need to use the bathroom or feel like I need to urinate all the time now. I'm constantly tired even if I get 12hrs sleep I wake up exhausted. Lately though I'm having to get up during the night to urinate so that doesn't help. I am convinced I have ovarian cancer ( family members have had and breast cancer.) I'm on a waiting list for laparoscopy however that waiting list is 102 weeks. Thats 2 years basically. Feel like my gp isn't taking this seriously.  All of it is so debilitating and I just want someone to take it seriously. I shouldn't have to wait even longer for more tests. Even if it turns out to be something else I still need answers and help. 

  • Hello Lee, and thank you for posting.

    I am sorry you are worried about ovarian cancer after having various symptoms over the last couple of years. I'm glad previous scans and blood tests have been clear but I understand that you need an answer for why you are feeling how you do.

    It would be more unusual for you to have ovarian cancer and something not shown on these tests. Many other gynaecological conditions are more common than ovarian cancer and show similar symptoms. Something like endometriosis for example can show the same symptoms and would be more expected in your age range, but only a doctor will be able to assess this and give you a diagnosis.

    If you feel your symptoms have changed or are worse than the last time you saw your doctor, then do go and see them again. We have information on making the most of your GP appointment if useful.

    You have mentioned being worried about breast and ovarian cancer being in your family. Do read our page on inherited cancers and talk to your GP about this too.

    Take care Lee and hopefully, you will have answers for your symptoms soon. If you want to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline the number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040, and the lines are open from 9 am till 5 pm, Monday to Friday.

    Sarah.

  • Hi, Thank you for your reply, I haven't had a scan in over a year, so I called my gp and explained that after my appointment with gynaecology that my symptoms had change. They were originally thinking endo however the gynecologist expressed that she doesn't believe give the location of the pain and the symptoms that it is. ( not rolled out though) 

    I explained to my gp that lately the symptoms are so much worse and that it's taking a toll on my mental health. Given the changes he has now asked gynecology to place me on the urgent list.  In the mean time he has also arranged several new scans given the length of time its been since my last scan. 

    I read the make the most of your appointment bit and that's why I made another appointment with my gp as I was trying not to be pushy or needy I guess. But also its myself that's suffering and decided I need to just explain further and make sure I was giving them all the information even the emotional part and so thats clearly made a big difference and I feel much better about the process. 

    Thank you