The transition through perimenopause and menopause can sometimes obscure the early warning signs of ovarian cancer, leading to delayed diagnosis and potentially impacting treatment outcomes. Australian doctors are urging women to be vigilant about changes in their bodies and to discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers, even if they attribute symptoms to hormonal shifts.
Approximately 1,900 Australian women are expected to receive an ovarian cancer diagnosis this year, and sadly, around 1,000 will succumb to the disease. This makes ovarian cancer the deadliest of all gynecological cancers, with a five-year survival rate of just 46%.
The challenge lies in the overlap of symptoms between ovarian cancer and the menopausal transition. Many women experience abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, changes in bowel habits, fatigue, and weight fluctuations as they approach menopause. These symptoms are often dismissed as a natural part of aging, delaying crucial medical evaluation.
Jodie Roberts, a 49-year-old mother of two and social worker at Mater Hospital Brisbane, experienced this firsthand. For six months, she attributed her fatigue and weight gain to perimenopause. “I was putting on weight around my stomach too – I thought I just needed to start exercising,” she recalled. “I thought it was all related to perimenopause or menopause, chalked it up to that and carried on.” However, a persistent feeling that something was seriously wrong prompted her to seek emergency medical attention on New Year’s Eve 2024.
The diagnosis was devastating: stage 4 ovarian cancer. Further testing revealed the disease had spread from her right ovary. Ms. Roberts underwent chemotherapy and a full hysterectomy with removal of her ovaries, followed by additional chemotherapy. While acknowledging the high risk of recurrence, she is now back at work and planning a trip to Europe, grateful for the care she received at Mater Hospital Brisbane.
“It took me a lot of time to process what ovarian cancer really means,” Ms. Roberts said. “I knew very little about it, but I feel like I was a walking beacon of ovarian cancer. My cancer markers were measuring around 4000 at the beginning, today they’re down to 17.” She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing health and seeking medical advice when experiencing unusual symptoms. “You can attribute the symptoms of ovarian cancer to so many other things that women experience in menopause – but you shouldn’t. The symptoms are vague and that’s why ovarian cancer is so dangerous.”
Dr. Catherine Shannon, Senior Medical Oncologist at Mater Cancer Care Centre, echoes this sentiment. “Ovarian cancer is most common in women over 60, but it can occur at any age, including during perimenopause and menopause,” she explains. “Many of the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause overlap with ovarian cancer and This represents something that women need to be aware of.”
Dr. Shannon highlights key symptoms to watch for: abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, changes in bowel habits, excessive fatigue, and unexplained weight gain or loss. She stresses the importance of self-awareness and reporting any new or persistent changes to a general practitioner.
Awareness of family history is also crucial. Dr. Shannon urges women to discuss any family history of breast and ovarian cancer with their doctor. While there is currently no effective screening test for ovarian cancer, early detection remains the best defense against the disease.
Mater Hospital Brisbane is a leading center for ovarian cancer treatment and research in Queensland, treating over 130 of the 300 women diagnosed with the disease each year. The hospital’s gynaecological oncology team provides comprehensive care, including chemotherapy, surgery, and ongoing support.
Ovarian cancer is often referred to as the “silent killer” due to the difficulty of early detection. The lack of a reliable screening test means that many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when treatment options are more limited. Recognizing the subtle signs and seeking prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes.
The overlapping symptoms of ovarian cancer and menopause underscore the need for open communication between women and their healthcare providers. By prioritizing their health and being proactive about addressing any concerns, women can empower themselves to navigate the menopausal transition safely and effectively, while remaining vigilant for potential signs of ovarian cancer.
