Survivor
Alex's Story
Alex shares her story of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
Read their storyOvarian Cancer
Learn about ovarian cancer, recognise the signs and symptoms, understand when to speak to your GP and know where to find support. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed, you'll also find information about the support available.
It’s important to note that there is NO national screening programme for ovarian cancer.
It's important to be symptoms-aware and visit a medical professional if you are concerned.
Family history – if two or more relatives from the same side of your family have had ovarian cancer under the age of 50, or there has been more than one case of ovarian and breast cancer in your family, you may have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer – because you may have inherited a BRCA1/2 gene mutation.
BRCA1/2 gene mutations – are associated with an up to 60% chance of developing ovarian cancer.
Age – 84% of cases are diagnosed in women over the age of 50, and more than half of all cases in women over 65 – although it is important to remember that a women can get ovarian cancer at any age
Signs & Symptoms
Persistent bloating
Feeling bloated most days for three weeks or more
Abdominal pain
Pain or tenderness in the lower abdomen or pelvis
Difficulty eating
Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite
Urinary symptoms
Needing to urinate more frequently or urgently
Many of these symptoms are common and often caused by less serious conditions. What matters is listening to your body — if something is persistent, frequent or new for you, get it checked.
When to be Concerned
Think: persistent, frequent, new and unusual. Notice changes that don't go away, and feel confident seeking medical advice.
When to See Your GP
-
Symptoms persist for 3+ weeks
If you experience any of these symptoms most days for three weeks or more, see your GP
-
Family history of ovarian or breast cancer
You may be at higher risk if close relatives have had these cancers
When to Speak to your GP
VISITING YOUR DOCTOR
#notovaryacting
You should see your doctor if you notice a change that isn't normal for you or if you have any of the possible signs and symptoms of cancer.
​
Even if you're worried about what the symptom might be, don't delay seeing them. Your worry is unlikely to go away if you don't make an appointment. The symptom might not be due to cancer. But if it is, the earlier it's picked up the higher the chance of successful treatment. You won't be wasting your doctor's time.
​
Try not to be embarrassed. What you tell your GP is confidential. Doctors are used to discussing intimate problems and will try to put you at ease.
Recently Diagnosed?
Getting the most out of your GP appointment
When you see the doctor, it can be difficult to remember everything you want to say. These tips will help you get the most out of your appointment.
​
Top Tips:
Write down your symptoms including when they started, when they happen and how often you have them.
Write down anything that makes them worse or better.
Tell your GP if you are worried about cancer.
Tell them if you have any family history of cancer.
Take a friend or relative along for support - they could also ask questions and take notes to help you remember what the GP says.
Ask the GP to explain anything you don’t understand.
Ask the GP to write things down for you if you think it might help.
REMEMBER YOU'RE #NOT OVARYACTING
Recently Diagnosed?
You’re not alone. Everyone’s experience is different, but here’s what to expect.
Learn More
Your Stories
Our supporters have shared their stories, raw and uncut – in the hope that it might help someone in their journey.
Read More
Digital Resources
Whether you’re looking for cancer education, awareness or support – click here to find what you’re looking for.
Discover More
You should see your doctor if you notice a change that isn't normal for you or if you have any of the possible signs and symptoms of cancer.
​
Even if you're worried about what the symptom might be, don't delay seeing them. Your worry is unlikely to go away if you don't make an appointment. The symptom might not be due to cancer. But if it is, the earlier it's picked up the higher the chance of successful treatment. You won't be wasting your doctor's time.
​
Try not to be embarrassed. What you tell your GP is confidential. Doctors are used to discussing intimate problems and will try to put you at ease.
Recently Diagnosed?
Getting the most out of your GP appointment
When you see the doctor, it can be difficult to remember everything you want to say. These tips will help you get the most out of your appointment.
​
Top Tips:
Write down your symptoms including when they started, when they happen and how often you have them.
Write down anything that makes them worse or better.
Tell your GP if you are worried about cancer.
Tell them if you have any family history of cancer.
Take a friend or relative along for support - they could also ask questions and take notes to help you remember what the GP says.
Ask the GP to explain anything you don’t understand.
Ask the GP to write things down for you if you think it might help.
REMEMBER YOU'RE #NOT OVARYACTING
Recently Diagnosed?
You’re not alone. Everyone’s experience is different, but here’s what to expect.
Learn More
Your Stories
Our supporters have shared their stories, raw and uncut – in the hope that it might help someone in their journey.
Read More
Digital Resources
Whether you’re looking for cancer education, awareness or support – click here to find what you’re looking for.
Discover MoreKnow your risk factors
Age over 50
80% of ovarian cancers occur in women over 50, with risk increasing with age
Family history
Having close relatives with ovarian, breast, or bowel cancer increases your risk. BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations significantly raise risk
Endometriosis
Women with endometriosis have a slightly higher risk of developing certain types of ovarian cancer
Never having children
Women who have never been pregnant have a slightly higher risk than those who have
Having one or more risk factors doesn't mean you will get ovarian cancer. However, if you have any concerns, speak to your GP.
Facts & Statistics
7,500+
Cases per year in UK
Cancer Research UK 2024
80%
Women diagnosed over 50
Ovarian Cancer Action
46%
5-year survival rate
Cancer Research UK 2024
Myths Busted
Currently, there is no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer in the UK. Knowing the symptoms and seeing your GP if they persist is the best early detection method.
While 80% of cases occur in women over 50, ovarian cancer can affect women of all ages, including those in their 20s and 30s.
Cervical screening (smear tests) check for cervical cancer, not ovarian cancer. They test completely different organs and conditions.
Ovarian cancer symptoms are often subtle and vague (bloating, pelvic pain, feeling full) rather than an obvious lump.
Frequently Asked Questions
The four key signs are: persistent bloating, feeling full quickly or loss of appetite, pelvic or abdominal pain, and needing to wee more urgently or often. Other symptoms can include changes in bowel habit, back pain and unexplained tiredness. If symptoms are persistent, frequent or new for you, speak to your GP.
No — bloating is really common and usually has a much less serious cause, like diet or IBS. The difference to watch for is persistence: bloating that happens most days for three weeks or more, or that doesn't come and go, should be checked by your GP.
As a guide: if symptoms are persistent (most days for around three weeks), frequent (12 or more times a month), or new and unusual for you, book a GP appointment. You know your body best — you're never wasting anyone's time by getting something checked.
Yes. While ovarian cancer is more common after the menopause, younger women can and do get it — particularly germ cell ovarian cancers, which most often affect women in their teens and twenties. Whatever your age, persistent symptoms deserve a GP appointment.
Around 1 in 10 ovarian cancers are linked to an inherited faulty gene, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. If close relatives have had ovarian or breast cancer, tell your GP — you may be eligible for genetic testing and closer monitoring.
Your GP will ask about your symptoms — it helps to keep a note of what you've noticed and how often. They may gently examine your tummy or carry out an internal examination. It's quick, and you can ask for a female GP or a chaperone when booking if that helps.
The usual first steps are a CA125 blood test and, depending on the result and your symptoms, an ultrasound scan of your tummy and pelvis. These tests can't diagnose cancer on their own, but they help your GP decide whether a specialist referral is needed.
If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed, we're here for you. Request a free Thriver Pack, join our WhatsApp Communities, or explore all the support available.
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