Is diarrhea a common symptom of ovarian cancer?

Diarrhea is not among the most typical early symptoms of ovarian cancer, but bowel habit changes (including constipation or diarrhea) can occur, especially as disease progresses or due to treatment. ^{[1] [2]} Ovarian cancer more commonly presents with persistent bloating, abdominal or pelvic pain, feeling full quickly, and urinary urgency or frequency; however, some people notice gastrointestinal problems like gas, bloating, and altered bowel movements. ^{[1] [2]}

How ovarian cancer can lead to diarrhea

• Tumor-related bowel changes: As ovarian tumors grow, they may affect the bowel’s function, leading to changes in stool frequency or consistency (constipation or diarrhea). ^[2]
• Ascites and abdominal pressure: Fluid buildup and mass effect in the abdomen can disrupt normal digestion and motility, contributing to gastrointestinal symptoms. ^[1]
• Misattribution to common conditions: Early ovarian cancer symptoms are often vague and may be mistaken for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can delay recognition when bowel changes persist. ^[3]

Treatment-related causes of diarrhea

• Chemotherapy: Many chemotherapy regimens can trigger diarrhea by irritating the intestinal lining or altering absorption. ^[4]
• Radiation, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy: These treatments can also cause diarrhea; certain targeted drugs and PARP inhibitors used in ovarian cancer care may contribute to gastrointestinal side effects. ^{[4] [5]}
• Infections and antibiotics: Treatment can lower immune defenses, increasing infection risk; infections and some antibiotics themselves can cause diarrhea. ^[4]
• Surgical changes: Surgery involving the intestines can lead to post-operative diarrhea due to altered anatomy and bile acid malabsorption. ^[4]

When to seek medical care

Diarrhea during cancer care can become serious due to dehydration and electrolyte loss, so timely evaluation is important. ^[6] Contact your healthcare team urgently if you have any of the following: six or more loose stools a day for more than two days, blood in the stool, weight loss due to diarrhea, fever ≥38°C, inability to control bowel movements, cramps lasting more than a day, or diarrhea with dizziness. ^{[7] [8]} Even if diarrhea seems mild but starts to limit daily activities or occurs while taking oral chemotherapy, inform your team promptly. ^[9]

Safe self-care and dietary measures

• Hydration first: Begin clear liquids (water, diluted juices, clear broths, oral rehydration solutions) and aim for about 2–3 liters per day unless your clinician has restricted fluids. ^[10]
• Low‑fiber “BRAT‑style” progression: As symptoms ease, introduce low‑fiber foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, potatoes, and lean proteins to reduce stool volume. ^[10]
• Foods to limit: During active diarrhea, avoid dairy, high‑fiber foods, caffeine, alcohol, and spicy or greasy foods, which can worsen symptoms. ^{[10] [11]}
• Small, frequent intake: Eat and drink smaller amounts more often to improve tolerance. ^{[10] [11]}

Medications and clinical management

Several antidiarrheal medications can help, but it’s important to check with your oncology team before starting anything some over‑the‑counter drugs may interact with chemotherapy or be unsafe in specific situations. ^[12] Your team can tailor treatment based on severity and cause, which may include loperamide, bile acid binders, pancreatic enzyme support, or antibiotics if infection is suspected. ^[12] Dose adjustments, temporary treatment holds, or supportive therapies are common strategies when treatment side effects drive diarrhea. ^[13]

Key takeaways

• Diarrhea can occur with ovarian cancer, but persistent bloating, pelvic pain, early satiety, and urinary changes are more typical; bowel habit changes are still relevant and should not be ignored. ^{[1] [2]}
• Cancer therapies frequently cause diarrhea, and early reporting helps prevent dehydration and complications. ^{[4] [6]}
• Use clear fluids, low‑fiber foods, and avoid triggers; coordinate antidiarrheal medication with your care team for safety. ^{[10] [12] [11]}

If your diarrhea is frequent, lasts beyond a day, or comes with fever, bleeding, dizziness, or weight loss, reach out to your clinician immediately for guidance and possible tests. ^{[7] [8]}