'I'm a gynaecologist and there's hidden ovarian cancer symptom you must never ignore'

'I'm a gynaecologist and there's hidden ovarian cancer symptom you must never ignore'Around 7,400 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the UK each year - a gynaecologist explains the subtle symptoms to be aware of and when to see your GPCommentsNewsJane Lavender Associate Editor07:00, 19 Apr 2026View 4 ImagesDr. Susanna Unsworth has explained the warning signs(Image: Natalie Sloan Photography)Each year, around 7,400 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the UK, making it the sixth most common cancer amongst women, according to Cancer Research UK.‌Ovarian cancer is more prevalent in older women over the age of 50, though anyone can develop the disease.‌Certain risk factors can heighten the chances of getting it, including smoking and medical conditions such as endometriosis and diabetes.‌Experts say the biggest challenge with this type of cancer is that currently more than 75 per cent of cases are diagnosed at a later stage, when the cancer has already spread into the abdomen or beyond.While treatments have improved considerably, a later diagnosis does mean that survival rates are significantly lower.View 4 ImagesAbdominal pain, cramps and bloating are common symptoms of the condition(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)‌According to gynaecologist Dr Susanna Unsworth, one of the primary reasons for late diagnosis is that ovarian cancer frequently fails to produce noticeable symptoms until it has already become quite advanced.However, she says there are several subtle warning signs that could potentially indicate ovarian cancer in its early stages, and she is urging women to be vigilant."I would encourage booking a review with your GP if you are experiencing them," she told The Mirror.‌"Many of the symptoms are subtle and do not mean that you have ovarian cancer. But it is worth having them checked out to hopefully exclude any underlying problem."The doctor says the "key symptom" to look out for are bloating, pa...