In December 2022, Emily Campbell, then 32 years old, began experiencing uncomfortable bloating, resembling a pregnant belly. Despite her concerns, doctors initially dismissed her symptoms. After persisting, she was diagnosed with Stage 3 borderline ovarian tumors. Campbell reflects on the lack of awareness surrounding ovarian tumor symptoms and the challenges faced when seeking medical help.
The bloating was just one of the symptoms Campbell endured; she also struggled with sleep and digestion issues. Eventually, she underwent surgery to remove the tumors, which had spread extensively. The procedure resulted in the removal of her uterus, ovaries, and cervix, impacting her fertility. Despite the emotional toll, Campbell was grateful for the successful surgery and removal of the tumors.
Throughout her journey, Campbell emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself in medical settings and the need for greater education on ovarian tumor symptoms.
Initially diagnosed with low-grade serous ovarian cancer, Emily Campbell later discovered she actually had borderline ovarian tumors. Seeking multiple opinions led to the correct diagnosis.
Due to the rarity of the condition, borderline ovarian tumors can be mistaken for cancer. Emily Campbell, now an advocate, founded a nonprofit called Not These Ovaries to support ovarian screening and treatments.
As part of her treatment, Emily was prescribed medication to suppress estrogen production, leading to immediate menopause and its challenging symptoms. Despite this, she remains strong and healthy but faces concerns such as decreasing bone density.
Borderline ovarian tumors, while rare, can recur as cancer in some cases. Dr. Brian Slomovitz explains that early detection is crucial as symptoms may not present until the tumors have spread.
Surgery is the primary treatment for removing the masses, often involving the removal of ovaries and uterus. Ongoing surveillance is necessary for individuals with borderline ovarian tumors as recurrences are possible even after five years.
In light of her journey, Emily and her husband established Not These Ovaries to raise funds for ovarian cancer screening and research. Their goal is to provide better detection and treatment options for women facing this challenging disease.
“It’s important to trust your instincts when something feels off about your health. Don’t hesitate to persist until you find the answers you need. It can be challenging to advocate for yourself in these situations, as our symptoms are sometimes overlooked or downplayed,” she emphasizes. “You are the expert on your own body, so it’s crucial to speak up and stand up for your health.” This article was originally published on TODAY.com.
