Q&A: Ovarian cancer
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cysts are fairly common, usually benign, and often resolve on their own—without surgical intervention—within a few months. While ovarian cancer is rare, it is one of the more serious gynecologic cancers.
Unfortunately, symptoms of ovarian cancer are vague and not usually present until the cancer is advanced. However, it is important to watch for these common early symptoms:
- Pelvic pressure or abdominal pain
- Abdominal bloating
- Urinary urgency
- Urinary frequency
- Feeling full quickly or trouble eating
If any of these symptoms is new, persistent, or frequent, that is a signal to see your doctor as soon as possible. Treatment for ovarian cancer can include surgery (often using minimally invasive techniques), chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and radiation.
Learn more about ovarian cysts and ovarian cancer.
Allison L. Higgins MD
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dr. Higgins grew up in Texas and received her B.A. in biology at Mount Holyoke College, then earned her medical degree at Baylor College of Medicine. She completed her OB/Gyn residency at University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1995 and moved to the Pacific Northwest. She loves this corner of the world with both mountains and ocean nearby. Dr. Higgins has been in this community now for over 25 years, and the best part of her job is getting to know patients and participating in their care starting from when they first start having babies all the way to menopause. Her special interests include preventive health care, minimally invasive surgery, obstetrics, and family planning options. When not at work, Dr. Higgins stays busy with her husband and two teenage daughters, and she enjoys hiking, gardening and riding her Peloton bike. She also wants to take up golfing now that she is going to be an empty nester. Dr. Higgins is happily accepting new patients. Please call to make an appointment.
