This article was written for Annabel & Grace, which is now part of Rest Less.
As we race past 50, I think we generally worry less about how many wrinkles we have and more about having good health. So, on that note, we’d like to remind you that March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. And awareness is what we need more of. Apparently four out of five women cannot name even one of the main symptoms of the disease.
HAVE A LOOK AT THIS VIDEO TO SEE WHAT THEY ARE:
“At the moment there is no screening programme for ovarian cancer: there is no conclusive research evidence to say that it would save lives. So it’s really important that more women know the symptoms.”
The symptoms can be vague but it is important to go to your GP if you are experiencing any of the following and they are new, frequent and persistent:
- Persistent bloating – not bloating that comes and goes
- Feeling full quickly and/or loss of appetite
- Pelvic or abdominal pain (that’s your tummy and below)
- Urinary symptoms (needing to wee more urgently or more often than usual)
Occasionally there can be other symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, extreme fatigue, unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite. Any postmenopausal bleeding should always be investigated by a GP.
“My message is, go and see your GP as soon as you think something is wrong and don’t take no for an answer.” Maureen, Inverness.
This disease can be devastating. It kills 11 women every single day in the UK. Target Ovarian Cancer charity works to improve early diagnosis, fund life-saving research and provide much-needed support.
Target Ovarian Cancer offers a nurse-led support line which is open Monday – Friday, 9am – 5.30pm. You will be given time to talk through any questions and concerns you may have. Call 020 7923 5475 or click here for more information.