QuestionI am a 32yo mother of 3 children ages 6, 2, and 7mos. Ever since I was pg with #3, I have had constipation and gas, which is unusual for me. I thought it was the pregnancy causing it, but the baby is 7mos old now and it hasn't stopped. My dr. thinks I just need to get more fiber, but I already eat a healthy, fiber-rich diet (very healthy compared to most people) so I don't think that's the problem. Is it true that gas and constipation can be a symptom of ovarian cancer? A friend told me she read that somewhere. I am concerned because my mother had cervical cancer at age 31, and something wrong with her right ovary and tube, which were removed surgically, at age 35. I don't know all the details because I was only 10 at the time and she is now deceased (died at age 45, brain cancer). Any info you could give me about possible symptoms for ovarian cancer would be appreciated. Also, is there a test I can ask my Dr to run on me to check for it? Thanks in advance!
AnswerDear Cathy, One thing for certain is that since you have a family history of cervical cancer (mother) it is VERY WISE for your doctor and you to have routine pap smears for the cervical cancer and also to be checked for ovarian cancer...
Symptoms of ovarian cancer are simular to gastric intestinal problems.... Symptoms of ovarian cancer are:
a sense of fullness
pressure in the pelvic area
a change in bowel habits
bloating
abdominal discomfort
YES, there are several types of tests your doctor can or should order for you.... A transvaginal ultrasound would be one that should be done.... The next could be a ct-scan of your abdomin and pelvic area.... Then there is a simple blood test called CA-125 that is often a marker for ovarian cancer.....
There is a LOT of information about ovarian cancer on the internet.... I specifically suggest YAHOO because it's web sites are more LAYMAN term and easier to understand....
Thank you, karen
