The Quest

What do you know about ovarian cancer?

It is the deadliest of all gynecological diseases, In the United States 22,000 women each year are diagnosed with ovarian cancer 75% of these women will not survive. Worldwide 684 women daily are diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

A Pap smear will not diagnose ovarian cancer.

If a family member has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer there is a test- Braca that will help determine if you have the inherited gene which can cause either breast cancer or ovarian cancer.

Tests to ask for:
CA 125 blood test
Pelvic ultrasound
Pelvic exam
Never get these test alone always these three tests together. False readings do occur.
Side note: ask your doctor what the reading is on the CA 125, don't be left in the dark regarding the number this will keep you advised on your health. Anything over 35 is dangerous. This alone can be a false reading, that's why you have to be aware and knowledgeable.

Common symptoms of ovarian cancer include:

  • Pelvic, abdominal or back pain
  • Bloating
  • Loss of appetite or feeling full quick
  • Urinary symptoms, such as increased urgency or frequency
  • Menstrual changes
  • Pain during sex
  • Constipation
  • Fatigue

Why I created this website...

...is easy to understand but the real issue is not so simple. I want to help save women's lives through education... That sounds simple but it's not! I have found that reeducating women is not that easy. We still think that our doctors are infallible, we think what he or she says is gold. After all they are the educated ones with medical degrees.

There have been times when women have approached me with this comment:
"Why didn't I listen to you?" There is not a lot you can say when the damage is done, ovarian cancer has hit the unexpected target, and the fight for life has begun.

My personal fight began when my sister died from Ovarian cancer, then I was diagnosed with the same cancer. I fortunately had listened when my sister advised me to get three tests she had not heard of. I did as she suggested. When I was diagnosed my cancer was in Stage 1. It is very rare to find ovarian cancer in the earliest of stages.

Blessings,
Sharon Leigh