A woman alleges that healthcare providers dismissed her pregnancy-like belly as IBS, only to later diagnose her with stage four ovarian cancer.
Cydnie Malone started experiencing symptoms in July 2023, including rib pain, bloating, and nausea. Her severe bloating caused her stomach to resemble a pregnant belly, with noticeable movements and unusual sounds. Despite a blood test showing elevated CA-125 levels, a marker for ovarian cancer, doctors initially diagnosed her with IBS and PCOS.
Despite multiple visits to Epsom Hospital and St Helier Hospital over two years, Cydnie felt her concerns were disregarded, even as her CA-125 levels increased significantly. After her abdomen continued to swell, she sought help from a different hospital and was ultimately diagnosed with late-stage ovarian cancer.
Following surgery to remove 15 tumors and a hysterectomy in May 2025, Cydnie underwent six rounds of chemotherapy and achieved remission by May 2026. She believes early detection could have prevented the cancer from spreading and encourages women to be proactive about their health.
Cydnie emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself when experiencing symptoms, as early intervention can be life-saving. She urges individuals not to ignore persistent health issues and to seek proper medical attention.