Cancer Research UK main site

Ca 125 - can feeling unwell and COVID affect your levels?

Jfluff
Offline

Hello

I am 47. 6 weeks ago I had spotting mid cycle when I wiped for about 15 hrs. Hasn't happened again. I have regular heavy periods every 28 days. I do feel ovulation with some twinges usually on left side and up by bum. Went to GP had blood test. Ca 125 is 40. Was just getting over COVID at time of blood test and have been swabbed. Swab showed thrush. I am also anaemic which I thought I would be. I have no other symptoms. Been fast tracked to gynacolgy for next week because of ca 125. I was generally feeling unwell at the time and had COVID 2 weeks before but still wasn't feeling right. 

I'm obviously worried about the ca125 as Dr said it was high. Any thoughts and can COVID  and generally feeling unwell from it effect the level? I was off work and so unwell with it. 

  • Hello, and thank you for posting. I am sorry you have this going on.

    Heavy periods and bleeding between your cycle can be caused by many different gynaecological conditions.

    A raised CA 125 is a sign that there is an increase in a certain protein in a woman's pelvic area. This protein is released by inflammation. Many things can cause this inflammation, and also menorrhoea (very heavy periods) in women. Endometrial hyperplasia, endometriosis, fibroids, as well as menopause, and ovarian cysts are just some examples, all with overlapping side effects. Because some cancers can be on that list, the doctors must refer you to the gynaecology department for an urgent referral so that they can work out what is causing the raised Ca125 and spotting for you.

    Covid, or any other virus like flu, would not affect your CA 125.

    Take care, and hopefully you will know more soon. If you want to talk to the nurses do call 0808 800 4040. Lines are open mon-fri, 9-5.

    Sarah.

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.