Emma urges local women to look out for signs of ovarian cancer early

Emma urges local women to look out for signs of ovarian cancer early

12 March 2025

DOWNPATRICK woman Emma Whitehead has bravely stepped forward to encourage people who feel something is wrong with their health to “keep pushing for answers.”

Emma said it’s important people do not let fear stop them from asking for help.

The local woman is telling her story during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of early detection and seeking medical advice.

Already in recovery from breast cancer, Emma began experiencing symptoms in December 2023, including bleeding and bloating. 

Following a visit to her GP, she was referred for further investigations, which led to the discovery of a cyst. 

Doctors informed her that she would require a hysterectomy and the removal of her ovaries.

A keen stitcher and embroiderer, Emma had her hysterectomy in June last year and when tissue tested were carried out, the results confirmed she had cancer.

“I am very lucky in a way because it was caught at an early stage,” she said.

“Sometimes, people only find out at a much later stage and that can make things very difficult. I was so lucky that the initial consultant was on the ball and found it.”

But Emma’s journey did not end there as she was told she required another operation which was carried out in mid-August last year.

“It was challenging because I was still recovering from my first surgery,” the Downpatrick woman explained.

“It was a very difficult time for me, as my mum was unwell, my partner was also facing health issues and I was dealing with two oncologists, one for breast cancer and another for ovarian cancer.”

Emma revealed that when she met the oncologist, she explained that the type of ovarian cancer she had did not necessarily require chemotherapy. 

Having already undergone chemotherapy for breast cancer, the local woman was acutely aware of how tough it could be. 

“The option was there, but they did not recommend it,” Emma explained.

“That was a lifeline. I was greatly relieved and decided not to have chemotherapy. Instead, I am now on a ‘watch and wait’ approach, with a CT scan every year and blood tests every quarter.”

Reflecting on her symptoms, Emma said she experienced a lot of bloating while waiting for surgery. 

“My cyst was large, but I have heard of others with even bigger cysts. Interestingly, my CA125 blood test wasn’t raised, yet I still had cancer, so it is always important not to rely just on that test, especially when you have symptoms.”

Encouraging others to be proactive about their health, Emma added: “A cancer diagnosis is scary, but often, the fear before the diagnosis is worse. 

“Once you know what you’re dealing with, you’ll find that you are more able to cope. There are pathways, support systems and people to help you through it.”

Fiona Rice, the South Eastern Trust’s gynaecology oncology nurse, said Emma’s story is a “powerful reminder” of the importance of listening to your body, acting on symptoms and advocating for your own health.

She continued: “Ovarian cancer symptoms can be difficult to recognise, particularly in the early stages of the disease. 

“Early symptoms can include those similar to irritable bowel syndrome or pre-menstrual syndrome, for example, persistent bloating, difficulty eating, feeling full quickly and persistent abdominal and pelvic pain.”

Fiona said other symptoms can include loss of appetite, indigestion, nausea, pain on intercourse, increased abdominal size, urinary and bowel habit changes, shortness of breath, lower back pain, tiredness and abnormal vaginal bleeding.”