Fourteen thousand women die each year from ovarian cancer. Forty-seven percent of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have a five-year survival rate. Early symptoms of ovarian cancer often go undiagnosed. Ovarian cancer is usually caught late, which leads to lower chances of survival. This leads to higher chances for medical complications.

Oral Contraceptives

The use of birth control pills decreases the risk of ovarian cancer for average-risk women. Women who use birth control five or more years have a fifty percent lower risk of ovarian cancer. This method may not be safe for everyone, so you should consult with your doctor.

Gynecologic Surgery

Tubal ligation and hysterectomy can reduce specific types of ovarian cancer. These medical procedures must be done for their intended purpose, not for preventing ovarian cancer. If you are having a hysterectomy and you have a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, then consider having both fallopian tubes and ovaries removed during the procedure.

Checkups

Regular OB/GYN check-ups include a pelvic exam, during which the doctor manually examines you for any pain or enlargement in the area of your ovaries. Imaging tests such as transvaginal ultrasounds or CT scans can help determine the cause of any problems. Your doctor may recommend a CA 125 blood test, which looks for markers of ovarian cancer in the bloodstream.

It is important to visit your OB/GYN regularly to ensure reproductive health. If not diagnosed soon enough, ovarian cancer can cause serious medical complications or death. Women should visit their gynecologist once a year and as necessary in-between visits as issues arise. Contact Women’s Health for an appointment today.

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Approximately 1 in 78 women will develop ovarian cancer. 15% of ovarian cancer diagnoses are linked to hereditary factors passed down through families, usually caused by mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. If ovarian cancer runs in your family, please tell your Women’s Health OB/GYN. The good news is that when diagnosed and treated early, the 5-year survival rate is over 90%. Contact Women’s Health in West Bloomfield, Michigan to schedule an appointment.

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A cancer diagnosis is frightening. Gynecological cancers are a big concern for women. Our bodies contain up to 78 organs. Ten of those are found in the female reproductive system. It can be confusing for people who do not have a medical background to differentiate between each part. That’s especially true when discussing ovarian and cervical cancer. While they are often referred to together, they are two separate conditions.

Understanding Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is caused by the presence of the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This virus causes cells in the cervix to change. A vaccine is available to girls around the age of 12 or 13 that helps protect them from developing two types of HPV.  Cervical cancer signs include:

• Abnormal bleeding between periods
• Bleeding after menopause
• Bleeding after sex
• Pain in pelvis
• Pain during sex
• Heavy discharge

Understanding Ovarian Cancer

Medical experts do not know exactly what causes ovarian cancer. This condition occurs in the ovaries, which are found in the lower region of the abdomen. Several risk factors can increase your chances of a cancer diagnosis. They include hormone replacement therapy, smoking, a family history of cancer, and breastfeeding for less than six months. Ovarian cancer symptoms include:

• Persistent bloating
• Getting full quickly when eating
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained stomach pain
• Changes in bowel habits
• Frequent urination

Have You Had a Cancer Screening?

The best way to protect yourself from ovarian and cervical cancer is with regular screenings. If you have never been checked or are overdue, let us know. Contact Women’s Health today to schedule an appointment.

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The female body goes through many changes as we age. It starts when we enter puberty and continues through menopause. While some changes are common and no reason to be alarmed, others can be worrying. The following five gynecological symptoms should never be ignored.

• Painful Intercourse

Intercourse should be a pain-free experience. Some causes may be minor, like dryness and a lack of lubrication. Others are far more concerning, like ovarian cancer. If you notice chronic pain during sex, it’s time to contact your gynecologist for an appointment.

• Chronic Bloating

Many women experience bloating just before menstruation. This is normal. However, if you experience excessive bloating that doesn’t go away, then there may be a problem. Ovarian cysts can cause this condition. Bloating can also happen as a result of ovarian cancer.

• Unexplained Fatigue

Daily life can be tiring. It’s okay to feel exhausted every now and again, but you should not feel this way all the time. Chronic fatigue is another symptom of illness, including cancer. This happens because cancer cells consume much of the energy supply in the body.

• Sudden Weight Loss

Sudden weight loss is another indication that something may be wrong. If you have dropped 10 pounds or more and have not changed your diet or activity level, then you should seek medical advice right away. Many types of cancer or a thyroid problem can cause weight loss.

• Unexplained Pain

Pelvic pain is an early symptom of cancer. Ovarian cancer is often linked to abdominal pain. Uterine cancer can be accompanied by pain and pressure. If you experience chronic pain in the same region for more than four weeks, you should talk to a doctor.

An OB/GYN can assess your condition and provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. Not all causes are life-threatening, but it’s important to act quickly, so you know what is happening to your body. Call your Women’s Health and Menopause Center doctor today to make an appointment to discuss recent changes or to schedule a routine exam.

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The post 5 Gynecological Symptoms You Should Never Ignore appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.