Pelvic Ultrasound

I have most of the symptoms of ovarian cancer: vaginal bleeding, bloated and very hard abdomen, can't hardly eat, losing weight, fatigue. The symptoms have been going on for 3 weeks now and i called my gyno who had me do a pelvic ultrasound. My doctor said the ultrasound looked normal, and has referred me to a gastro intestinal doctor. My question is, how acurate is the ultrasound? My doctor has yet to see me in person, this has all been done on the phone. I have alot of cancer in my family, 2 being aunts on both sides with breast cancer, and I am concerned that something is being missed. My symptoms are getting worse, i keep losing weight, and i still have 3 weeks until i can get into the intestinal doctor. Should i get a second opinion?

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There,

It is hard to make an assessment without physical exam. A normal pelvic ultrasound is very reassuring. However there is no screening test for ovarian cancer. Ultimately persistent symptoms over several months need further work up. A GI work up first is reasonable . An exam with your gyn is important.
I hope everything works out.