Unfortunately, the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer can be very vague and non-specific, plus those same symptoms can be related to a host of other medical issues. This is why only about 20 percent of all ovarian cancers are found in the early stages. The primary symptoms associated with ovarian cancer include the following:
- Urinary symptoms—having to go frequently, or always feeling like you need to go;
- Feeling full quickly, even after a light meal;
- Trouble eating;
- Abdominal pain;
- Abdominal distension;
- Bleeding after menopause;
- Loss of appetite;
- Unusual gain or loss of weight;
- Rectal bleeding
- Pelvic pain, and
- Bloating.
It is very important that women realize the above symptoms can also be the result of benign diseases as well as from cancers in other parts of the body. When the symptoms are associated with ovarian cancer they will represent a change from what is normal for the woman and they will be persistent. The “change from normal” could be that the symptoms occur more often or are more severe than in the past. If you experience the above symptoms—even some of them—more than twelve times within a one-month period, you should make an appointment with your gynecologist for a thorough exam. There are other symptoms associated with ovarian cancer. While any of these, taken on its own, and experienced infrequently, are unlikely to be associated with ovarian cancer, when experienced frequently, or in conjunction with the above symptoms could be cause for concern. These symptoms include:
- Abdominal swelling along with weight loss;
- Changes in periods;
- Painful sex;
- Back pain;
- Upset stomach;
- Constipation, and
- Fatigue.
Are there any Symptoms Unique to Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer? What are the dangers of baby powder with talc?
There are many things for a woman to think about following a diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Of course the primary focus will be on treatment for the disease, however most women will also have many questions regarding the disease itself. The focus on ovarian cancer, often called the “silent killer,” has vastly increased over the past couple of years, primarily due to the number of Johnson & Johnson talcum powder ovarian cancer lawsuits in the news. There are currently more than 1,200 talcum powder lawsuits filed against Johnson & Johnson from women across the United States. The first three of those talcum powder ovarian cancer lawsuits were decided in favor of the plaintiffs, despite the fact that Johnson & Johnson continues to maintain talcum powder ovarian cancer has no scientific basis. A number of studies would disagree with that assessment:
As far back as the 1970’s, there were studies which pointed to an increased risk of ovarian cancer among women who used talcum powder for feminine hygiene. Since that time, numerous additional studies have found between a 30-40% increased risk of ovarian cancer among women using talcum powder in the genital region. There are unfortunately no known ovarian cancer symptoms that are unique to Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer. The symptoms and/or warning signs for a Talcum Powder related Ovarian Cancer would essentially be the same as for other types of ovarian cancer as described above.
Lawsuits over Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer / Ovarian Baby Powder Cancer Lawsuits
In 2013 a jury found in favor of the plaintiff in a Johnson & Johnson talcum powder ovarian cancer lawsuit, then again in February 2016 and May 2016. It appears these jurors believed Johnson & Johnson deliberately failed to warn American women about the potential risks associated with using talcum powder (contained in baby powder with talc and “Shower to Shower”) for feminine hygiene and an increased risk for developing ovarian cancer. Talcum powder ovarian cancer has struck far too many unsuspecting women.
Getting the Help You Need Following a Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer
Receiving a diagnosis of ovarian cancer can completely shatter your world. While your focus during this time is on your health and your future—as it should be—you may also find your medical expenses mounting alarmingly. If you are a victim of ovarian cancer who used talcum powder (contained in baby powder with talc and “Shower to Shower”) for feminine hygiene, it could be extremely beneficial to speak to an experienced talcum powder ovarian cancer attorney. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and possibly even pain and suffering. If applicable, your baby powder ovarian cancer attorney could also possibly pursue punitive damages on your behalf.