Early Warning Signs Of Ovarian Cancer

Constipation And Diarrhea

The location of the ovaries makes it quite easy for ovarian cancer to spread to the bowels. If it does spread to the bowels, the intestines will experience damage and inflammation. Overall, there will be an impairment in bowel function. This means patients can experience diarrhea or constipation. Diarrhea can happen if ovarian cancer damages the large intestine lining. This lining is what absorbs fluid from the stool, and when it doesn’t do this properly, the fluid is left there and women deal with diarrhea.

Alternatively, ovarian cancer that invades the bowels can obstruct the colon. This obstruction can either be partial or complete. Either way, a colon obstruction forces stool to remain in the large intestine for too long. When stool stays here, more fluid is absorbed from it. Absorbing too much causes constipation, making bowel movements more difficult to pass.

Find out how ovarian cancer can influence a woman’s appetite next.