This week Pete Sampras shared some sad news that his wife, actress Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, has ovarian cancer. "As most have come to know, I am a pretty quiet and private person. However, this past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family, and I have decided to share what's been going on," the statement posted by the ATP Tour on X reads. "Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy." What is ovarian cancer and what are the signs and symptoms that come along with it? Here is what you need to know about it.
Ovarian cancer is a group of diseases that originates in the ovaries, or in the related areas of the fallopian tubes and the peritoneum, explains the CDC.
The CDC lists the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer on their website. The first is vaginal bleeding (particularly if you are past menopause) or discharge from your vagina that is not normal for you.
The second symptom to look out for? Pain or pressure in the pelvic area, says the CDC.
Abdominal or back pain can also be a symptom of ovarian cancer, explains the CDC.
While bloating is very common, especially right before your period or after eating certain foods, it can also be a symptom of ovarian cancer.
Have your eating habits changed? Feeling full too quickly or having difficulty eating can be signs of ovarian cancer.
Something else to look out for? "A change in your bathroom habits, such as more frequent or urgent need to urinate and/or constipation," says the CDC.
"Pay attention to your body, and know what is normal for you," explains the CDC. If you have unusual vaginal bleeding, see a doctor right away. "If you have any of the other signs for two weeks or longer and they are not normal for you, see a doctor. They may be caused by something other than cancer, but the only way to know is to see a doctor," they add.
Some mutations (changes in genes) can raise your risk for ovarian cancer. Mutations in the breast cancer susceptibility genes 1 and 2 (BRCA1 and BRCA2), and those associated with Lynch syndrome, are the most common mutations that raise ovarian cancer risk.
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Ovarian cancers come in a few different tumor types and subtypes. The most common tumor type is adenocarcinoma, and the most common subtype is serous adenocarcinoma. "Most serous adenocarcinomas are high-grade (aggressively growing) tumors," the CDC explains.
