Women with a family history of ovarian cancer are also at a higher risk for the disease. Symptoms of ovarian cancer include bloating, pain, pressure or discomfort, van Nagell says. As the tumor grows, the most common first symptoms are caused by fluid build-up within the abdominal cavity. If the cancer spreads to the diaphragm, fluid may collect around and under the lungs, causing shortness of breath. Pressure on the stomach can also cause loss of appetite or a feeling of fullness, even after a very light meal.
Some women describe their symptoms as feeling about four months pregnant.
When the tumor presses on organs near the ovaries, such as the bowel of bladder, the woman may experience gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or frequent urination.