When it comes to cancers, ovarian cancer is considered a silent killer. The female body has two ovaries where the eggs are produced. When there is a malignant and abnormal growth in the ovaries, it is known as ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is becoming quite prevalent, but increased awareness and screening have led to early detection. Here are the causes and symptoms of ovarian cancer.

1. Causes of ovarian cancer

• Age
  When it comes to causes and symptoms of ovarian cancer, people usually worry about age-related causes. It is said that over 50% of ovarian cancer cases occur in those above the age of 63.
• Reproductive history is important
  Generally, it is said that those who have endured one or more complete or full-term pregnancies have a lower risk of ovarian cancer. Among the causes and symptoms of ovarian cancer, reproductive history is most discussed. Apart from full-term pregnancies, mothers who have breastfed and those on birth-control pills seem to have a lower risk. On the other hand, those opting for fertility treatments seem to fall under the high-risk category.
• Breast cancer history
  There have been studies on the aspect of those who have had breast cancer and the connection to ovarian cancer. Those who have suffered through or survived breast cancer seem to have a higher risk of contracting ovarian cancer. While this may not stand out as one of the major causes and symptoms of ovarian cancer, breast cancer patients may see a change in the BRCA gene. As a preventive therapy, those with this gene mutation may opt for surgery to remove the ovaries.

2. Symptoms of ovarian cancer
Symptoms of ovarian cancer may closely resemble premenstrual syndrome. Typically, if you have ovarian cancer, these symptoms will persist and worsen gradually. Early symptoms may vary from patient to patient.

• Patients may feel constant pressure or pain in the pelvis area.
• There may be some vaginal bleeding.
• While bloating is a general complaint with PMS, it must be investigated when the symptom is persistent.
• Some patients complain that while they do feel hungry, they feel full immediately.
• There may be changes in the urination patterns. Patients may complain of the need to urinate frequently.
• Constipation is another common complaint.
• Nausea and indigestion are commonly identified as early symptoms.
• There is appetite loss along with a steady weight loss.
• Patients also often complain about breathlessness, general malaise, and fatigue.

There are several causes and symptoms of ovarian cancer. For best chances of recovery, it is important to detect it as early as possible.