ovarian pain? Bloating and feeling full. Any advice. Nervous 30yr old!

[Flowers12]

Hi all

A little back story. I have been experiencing a few symptoms that can mimic ovarian cancer. As I deal with health anxiety I’ve jumped to the worst case scenario so any advice would be great

I’ve been experiencing a sensation of fullness from the moment I get up to the moment I go to bed and a lot of acid reflux. Burping and passing wind.

i had quite a traumatic labour with my son so the doctor has put this down to IBS.

Ive had bloods and stool tests which have been normal. I’ve had a endoscopy which again has been fine. However I’m the last 2 weeks or so I’ve been have a full ache over what feels like my left ovary. In two occasions I’ve had a sharp pain and then as it stands now I’ve had a dull ache - almost like I’m about to have a period.

In addition to this. I currently breast feed and have been stopping midday feeds as I’m back to work now. In the 10 months of BF I haven’t had a period yet. Could this be my body trying to regain a normal cycle.

i had a similar issues a few years ago without the feeling full sensation and I was sent for an interns and they couldn’t see anything

I am booked in for an internal however o haven’t had my appointment through yet. I should add. My doctor doesn’t seem remotely concerned and had only referred me for my peace of mind

Any advice would be so grateful. Thanks you.

[Lyndy2]

Ask for a ca125 blood test to rule out OC x

[Flowers12 in reply to Lyndy2]

hi Lyndy. I had a routine blood test. She took around three tubes of blood which I believe the CA125 was included ?

[Heart12345]

Hiya, I see you have already asked for a ca125 test so that might shed some light on the situation. Also you could ask for a transvaginal ultrasound and possibly a ct scan. To be honest you are best to see a gynaecologist for peace of mind.

[lesleysage]

Try phoning the Ovacome freephone helpline 0800 008 7054 as they can offer support and knowledge. It certainly sounds, to me, that a steady, listening ear & knowledgeable person may help to balance your concerns? Take care; warm wishes.x

[Narna1]

Sometimes when breast feeding your uterus contracts I think. Could be something to do with that. Try not to worry. I agree, go to see a specialist for peace of mind.

[SopSinger]

Sometimes periods don't start again until breast feeding is done, or down to one feed a day, especially if you are very thin. The body can't cope with everything so it "shuts down" the potential for fertility. I'd agree with the other ladies, ask for CA125 blood test and transvaginal ultrasound to rule out ovarian cancer (the blood test is NOT enough on its own). At your age, IBS is more likely but it's easy enough (and not outrageously expensive) to rule out the worst case.

[Flowers12 in reply to SopSinger]

thank you. I’m booked in for an ultrasound in the next few weeks. Trying to keep a steady kind until then. Thank you for your advice.

[SophieZ]

There is a test called a Circulating Tumor Cell test that originated in Switzerland in 2004 called the RGCC test. Some integrative oncologists utilize it in the US. There is a version of it that was FDA approved a couple of years ago. One company that does it is called Signatera but there are a bunch more. This is a simple blood draw. If any circulating tumor cells (cells that have broken off from an existing tumor) or tumor DNA is found then they are able to tell where in the body the tumor originated as well as any genetic mutations. This could help with early recurrence detection as well as matching with treatments based on genetic mutations. This test is essentially a liquid biopsy and is able to detect tumors before they are even large enough to appear on a scan.

Most oncologists don’t use it for “clinical application” yet because its supposedly “new” technology even though its been around since 2004. MD Anderson just adopted it under standard of care at their practice 2 years ago. Your oncologist could order the test even if they don’t typically do so. This might give you a better idea of your situation instead of waiting and watching on scans. If any circulating tumor cells are found the original RGCC test can even test 53 types of chemo on your cells to find out if they are chemo sensitive.

There is a Bill in the Senate that was introduced in 2021 called the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early

Detection Screening Coverage Act that is pushing to have this test covered by medicare as a screening and early detection tool for the general public as well as a way for cancer patients to be monitored after treatment. I just spoke to my oncologist about it and after some insisting he agreed to order the test. This might help you have some peace of mind if you have a more accurate screening tool utilized like this blood test and a better assessment of your condition.

[Goodgirl98]

I agree with the advice already shared. The tumour marker test along with the U/S will conclusively rule it out. Take care!