7,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer a year and survival rates are lower than for other cancers because it is often diagnosed at a fairly late stage, when it may have spread to other parts of the body.
Only three per cent of women are very confident of spotting a symptom of ovarian cancer.
Dr Chris Elliott, Chief Clinical Officer, NHS Sutton CCG, said it was important people were aware of the symptoms of ovarian cancer as early diagnosis is crucial.
"Women need to know what to look for, so they go to their doctor as soon as possible" he said.
"GPs also need to know what to rule out, so they can send women for the right diagnostic tests as soon as possible. Only with increased awareness of the symptoms can we increase early diagnosis.
"As a first step, keep a symptoms diary to note down each time your symptoms occur, when you first noticed them and if they seem to be getting worse.
"You're not wasting anyone's time by getting the symptoms checked out and if it's nothing to worry about it will put your mind at rest".
Symptoms to look out for are:
increased abdominal size and persistent bloating (not bloating that comes and goes)
persistent pelvic and abdominal pain
difficulty eating and feeling full quickly, or feeling nauseous
needing to pass urine frequently
If you're regularly experiencing these symptoms on most days it's important to talk to your GP as soon as possible. Other symptoms you may notice include, back pain, feeling tired all the time and changes to your bowel habits (diarrhoea or constipation).
Things to tell your GP:
Your concerns that you may have ovarian cancer and what your symptoms are
How often you experience your symptoms using a symptoms diary
If you have any family members who have or have had ovarian, breast or prostate cancer
If you've already seen your GP and the symptoms continue or get worse, you should go back and explain this. You know your body better than anyone.
For more information visit www.nhs.uk or www.ovarian.org.uk