World Ovarian Cancer Day

Ovarian cancer is cancer of the ovaries, the store of a women’s egg supply. Typically, it is the most common cancer occurring in women. The chances of getting ovarian cancer is higher for women who have been through the menopause, however it can still affect younger women.

 

Symptoms

Some of these symptoms can sometimes get confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) due to their similarities.

  • A swollen tummy
  • Constant indigestion or nausea
  • Feeling full quickly from eating
  • Weight loss
  • Pain during sex
  • Back pain
  • Having to pass water more than usual
  • Tummy / pelvic discomfort
  • A change in bowel habits
  • Feeling tired all the time
  • Always feeling bloated

 

It is worth noting that if any of the following apply to you, then you need to see your GP:

  • You have been feeling bloated for three weeks or more
  • You have a family history of ovarian cancer
  • You have other reoccurring symptoms

 

Causes

Ovarian cancer occurs when cells in the ovaries start to grow and multiply at an uncontrollable rate. This in turn produces a lump of tissue, the tumour.

Whilst the exact cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, there are some things which may increase a woman's risk of getting it:

  • Endometriosis, where tissue is found outside the womb
  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), this risk is very small
  • Being over 50 years old
  • A family history of ovarian or breast cancer
  • Being overweight

 

Treatment

Depending on how far the ovarian cancer has spread, as well as your general health, will determine which treatment you would have:

  • Surgery, where as much of the cancer will be removed as possible, often removing both ovaries, the womb and the tubes
  • Chemotherapy, where medicine is used to kill the cancer cells

 

Most people have a combination of both surgery and chemotherapy.

  

To learn first aid skills attending one of our courses is what you need to do. We hold regular First Aid At Work courses in central Cardiff. There are two levels of courses available depending on the level of risk in your workplace. Click these links to see the dates of upcoming courses and to book places online:

Alternatively, many employers prefer First Aid training to be carried out at their own workplace so we can provide a quote for us to come to you. 

Here's how to get in touch and find out more information:

 

St David’s First Aid Training – keeping you safe and legal.