Elevated CA125 level

Hi, just looking for some advice/ reassurance I've been having bloating, stomach and back pain, feeling a little full at the top of my tummy after eating meals, fatigue, heavy periods and a lot of pain and discomfort when I'm on my period, I've had loss of libido and intercourse is painfull, it's been that way for a while, I've had multiple blood tests, and my CA 125 level came back at 40, I'm only 28, and in full panic mode that it's ovarian cancer because the symptoms are similar, I was on my period when I had the test done, not sure if that makes a difference  and I was told years ago that I had pcos but never really had much bother with the condition, I've been referred for a pelvic and internal ultrasound at the cancer centre, have you had experience with tests coming normal even with high ca125 levels.

  • Your ca125 is only just over the ' normal ' level, lots of things can raise it an ovarian cyst for example that may have gone by the time you have your scan.

    Do you have any family history of ovarian cancer? 

  • No history of ovarian cancer

  • Hi Gardner21 and thank you for posting.

    I am sorry to learn that you are having symptoms that are causing you concern.

    As Clastegra has mentioned there can be several reasons for a raised ca125 such as cysts,  endometriosis and fibroids which is why further tests are needed such as an ultrasound. I see that you are 28, and it is worth knowing that ovarian cancer in someone your age is less common it is more common in women over the age of 55.

    It can be a stressful and worrying time waiting for tests and test results and I do hope you can have support from friends and family. Easier said than done but try not to overthink things and I hope you do not have to wait too long before you get some answers.

    Take care, please feel free to get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful 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 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Jemma