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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Female Health > Ovarian Cancer
Posted on: 04/26/2007
Question
I would like to know about ovarian cancer because my mom was diagnosed with ovarian cancer but died of a stroke shortly after the surgery and I am very paranoid about getting cancer. I have dealt with a lot of bloating after eating for quite a few years and have also experienced brownish red discharge. I read that symptoms of ovarian cancer are bloating, swelling in the abdominal area, and pain. I think that I have a slight pain in the abdomen but it only occurred after reading the article, so I might be imagining it. Could I be overreacting or should I go see a doctor??
Answer
We're very sorry about your loss.
Unfortunately, the symptoms of ovarian cancer tend to be very non-specific -- as you read, bloating, discomfort, etc. Ovarian cancer tends not to occur in teens.
Go see your doctor. Your doctor can help you understand more about what you are feeling and reassure you. Your doctor can also discuss what the true risk to you of developing ovarian or any cancer is, and what, if anything, you can do to modify your risk.