What to ask for for an indepth screening?

[Rachel4]

Okay, I haven't been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. But this month I read in Women's Health magazine that constant bloating, frequent urge to pee, and frequent gas are all early symptoms of ovarian cancer that can be mistaken for ( or simply) gastrointestinal symptoms. I've been told by doctor's that it's just stress affecting me. And then I picked up this month's issue of Wired Magazine and they had an article about the Canary Foundation working on early detection for ovarian, pancreatic, lung, and prostate cancer. All of the cases they reported on were ovarian cancer. I'm feeling a push to talk to my doctor (GP) about it. I'm due for my next annual exam in February. Is the GP the best person to talk to about this? What type of tests should I ask for?

Helpful facts that can help you help me:
* I'm only 26, young according to what I've read. But my mom was diagnosed at 40 with estrogen receptor positive breast cancer. She had her ovaries removed so I can't say if she has or has not had ovarian cancer.
* I have not been tested from BRC1 and BRC2 but my mom was tested about a year ago and was negative.
* I am pretty regular at getting my annual exams every 12-18 months.
* I had a spot removed from my cervix 3 years ago and it was negative for melanoma.
* I've been on birth control for 8 years to treat very irregular periods.
* I was recently diagnosed with hypothyroidism and nutritional deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, vitamin b12, vitamin b3, and zinc. I'm being treated for all currently.
* I've started getting PMS and I've always been blessed with an easy period.

Thanks for your help!

[Sandymac]

Hi,
    Just a little "aside".. The CA-125 test can be a little unreliable in premenopausal women as there are so many factors that can increase the numbers..For instance, infections, endometriosis to name just a couple . Just noticed a post on the Ovca forum that indicated a very low number on the CA-125 yet the member does have ovca. And, conversely having a high number does not always indicate the presence of Ovca. It is, however, a good tool for those experiencing symtoms.Actually, the American Cancer Society doesn't recommend the test as a screening tool for those without symptoms.  And.. my own opinion is that you should be seeing a Gynecologist rather than a GP.. as this is the specialty of the Gyn.
    As Trudie said, hoping all is cyst related as they are very very common and 95% benign. I wouldn't worry too much about Ovarian Cancer at this stage of the game, but do mention the symptoms (which could be due to a number of things) to your Gyn.

Good luck.

[Rachel4]

Thanks!

[TrudieC]

Ovarian cancer symptoms and ovarian cyst symptoms are also very much similar.  You should ask your doctor for a transvaginal ultrasound and a CA-125 test.  I am certainly hoping that your issues are cyst related and would welcome you over on our cyst forum.  Good luck!