Ovarian Cancer Pain: What It Feels Like and When to See a Doctor

Ovarian pain can be confusing – is it just indigestion, period cramps, or something more serious?

Many people notice a mild ache or bloating and assume it will pass. But when discomfort changes, lasts longer than usual, or comes with other symptoms, it’s worth finding out why. Being aware of how ovarian cancer pain can differ from ordinary aches can help you decide when to reach out to your doctor.

What does ovarian cancer pain feel like?

Ovarian cancer pain can vary from person to person. In the early stages, many people do not feel pain or notice any symptoms. When pain does appear, it often feels dull, aching, or bloated, rather than sharp or sudden.

You may describe the discomfort as:

• A persistent ache or heaviness in your lower abdomen

• Cramping or pressure that does not improve with rest

• Pain that worsens over time or feels different from menstrual pain

Because these symptoms can seem mild or similar to common digestive issues, ovarian cancer is sometimes not detected until it has progressed. Paying attention to persistent or unusual pain can help with earlier detection and care.

Where is ovarian cancer pain located?

Ovarian cancer pain often begins in the lower abdomen or pelvis, where the ovaries are located. However, as the cancer grows or spreads, you may experience discomfort in other areas too.

Abdominal pain and pelvic pain

This is where ovarian cancer pain most commonly occurs. It may feel like a constant pressure, bloating, or tightness in your lower belly. As tumours grow, they can press on nearby organs like the bladder or intestines, which may also cause:

• A feeling of fullness even after eating small meals

• Increased abdominal size or swelling

• Discomfort when bending or sitting for long periods

These sensations occur because growing ovarian tumours can press on nearby organs, such as the bladder or intestines.

Lower back pain

Ovarian cancer can sometimes cause pain in your lower back, especially if the cancer spreads or causes fluid build-up (ascites) in your abdomen. The pain is usually dull and deep, and it may worsen over time.

Less common pain locations

In more advanced stages, ovarian cancer pain can occur in other areas, such as:

• The hips or thighs, due to nerve pressure

• The upper abdomen, if cancer affects nearby organs

• The shoulders or chest, if fluid builds up around the lungs

While these symptoms are less typical, they can indicate that the cancer is affecting other parts of the body.

Early signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer

In addition to pain, ovarian cancer can cause subtle symptoms that are easy to overlook. These can develop gradually and become more noticeable as the cancer grows.

The BEACH acronym

Doctors sometimes use the BEACH acronym to help remember early warning signs of ovarian cancer:

• Bloating that is persistent and not relieved by dietary changes

• Eating less or feeling full quickly

• Abdominal or pelvic pain

• Changes in bladder habits, such as needing to urinate more often

• Having changes in bowel habits, such as constipation

If these symptoms occur frequently or last for more than a few weeks, it’s best to seek medical advice.

Other symptoms to watch for

Other possible early signs include:

• Fatigue or low energy

• Unexplained weight loss

• Changes in menstrual cycles

• Pain during intercourse

• Indigestion or nausea

While these symptoms can have many causes, persistent or worsening discomfort should always be checked by a doctor. Early diagnosis offers the best chance for effective treatment.

When to see a doctor for ovarian cancer pain?

Mild bloating or abdominal discomfort is common and often harmless. However, if pain or other symptoms are new, persistent, or worsening, it’s important to consult a doctor. Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Abdominal or pelvic pain that lasts for several weeks

• Bloating that doesn’t improve with diet or lifestyle changes

• Changes in urination or bowel habits

• A feeling of fullness after small meals

• Unexplained fatigue or weight changes

These signs don’t always mean you have ovarian cancer, but they do indicate that something may need further assessment. Your doctor can recommend tests such as pelvic examinations, ultrasound scans, or blood tests to find the cause and guide next steps.

If you’ve been experiencing ongoing abdominal or pelvic discomfort, schedule an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our specialists can assess your symptoms and recommend the right next steps for your care.

Does ovarian cancer pain come and go?

Yes, ovarian cancer pain can come and go, especially in the early stages. You might feel discomfort for a few days, then it eases – only to return later. Over time, the pain may become:

• More frequent or constant

• Harder to relieve with rest or over-the-counter pain relief

• Accompanied by other symptoms like bloating, fatigue, or digestive issues

Because the pain pattern can be unpredictable, tracking when it occurs and how it changes over time can offer helpful information about your symptoms and overall health.

How do you manage ovarian cancer pain?

Pain management is an important part of ovarian cancer care. The right approach depends on what’s causing the discomfort and your overall health. Here are some common ways your gynaecologic oncologist helps manage ovarian cancer pain:

• Medications:

  • Pain relievers, from mild options like paracetamol to stronger prescription medicines, may be used under medical supervision.

• Targeted treatment:

  • Surgery, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy for ovarian cancer can help reduce tumour size, easing pressure and pain.

• Supportive therapies:

  • Gentle exercise, breathing techniques, relaxation, or physiotherapy can relieve muscle tension and improve comfort.

• Palliative care:

  • For advanced cases, a palliative care team can help manage pain and other symptoms to maintain quality of life.

Always discuss any pain relief methods with your doctor. Self-medicating or delaying treatment can make symptoms worse.

If these treatment options seem overwhelming or you’re unsure which approach suits your needs, request an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our gynaecologic oncology team can guide you through your options and provide personalised care.

Diagnosing ovarian cancer

If your doctor suspects ovarian cancer based on your symptoms or family history, they may recommend several diagnostic tests to confirm the cause. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Pelvic examination:

  • A doctor checks for lumps, swelling, or tenderness in the ovaries or surrounding area.

• Ultrasound scan:

  • The test uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries and detect abnormalities such as cysts or solid masses.

• Blood tests:

  • The CA-125 blood test measures a protein that may be higher in people with ovarian cancer. However, elevated levels of certain markers can also occur with other conditions, so these tests are used alongside imaging and medical evaluation.

• CT scans or MRI scans:

  • The tests provide detailed images to determine whether cancer has spread within the abdomen or pelvis.

• Biopsy:

  • A biopsy involves taking a tissue sample to confirm the diagnosis under a microscope.

Early detection offers the best chance for effective treatment. If you notice persistent or unusual symptoms, consult a doctor for assessment.

FAQ

Can ovarian cancer cause pain on one side only?

What is the difference between ovarian cancer pain and ovarian cyst pain?

Ovarian cyst pain is often short-term and sharper, sometimes linked to your menstrual cycle. Ovarian cancer pain tends to be dull, constant, and progressive, often accompanied by bloating or changes in appetite.

What does back pain from ovarian cancer feel like?

Back pain from ovarian cancer often presents as a persistent ache in the lower back, which may worsen with time. It can sometimes feel like menstrual cramps or muscle strain, but it doesn’t usually improve with rest.

How do I know if pain is from my ovary?

Ovarian pain usually occurs in the lower abdomen or pelvis, on one or both sides. If this discomfort persists for more than a few weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by bloating or digestive changes, seek medical advice.

Can you have ovarian cancer without pain?

Yes. Many people do not experience pain in the early stages of ovarian cancer. Symptoms may be subtle – like bloating, fullness after small meals, or frequent urination – which is why early detection is often challenging.

Does ovarian cancer cause pain during intercourse?

It can. Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) may occur if tumours or inflammation affect pelvic tissues or nearby nerves. Always discuss new or unusual pain during intercourse with your doctor.

What does ovarian cancer pain feel like in the early stages?

Early ovarian cancer pain is usually mild, vague, or intermittent, often described as a dull ache or pressure in the lower abdomen or back. These early signs are easy to overlook, so tracking ongoing or recurring symptoms is key.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice based on your unique situation, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Schedule an appointment with Thomson Medical today.

Citations

Bankhead, C., Collins, C., Stokes‐Lampard, H., Rose, P., Wilson, S., Clements, A., Mant, D., Kehoe, S., & Austoker, J. (2008b). Identifying symptoms of ovarian cancer: a qualitative and quantitative study. BJOG an International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 115(8), 1008–1014. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1471-0528.2008.01772.x