A mother has come forward with claims that medical professionals dismissed her pregnancy-like belly as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) but later diagnosed her with stage four ovarian cancer.
Cydnie Malone, aged 31, began experiencing symptoms such as rib pain, bloating, and nausea in July 2023. She described her bloating as so severe that she appeared pregnant, with her stomach exhibiting unusual movements and sounds.
Despite showing elevated levels of the CA-125 marker for ovarian cancer in a blood test, which was more than three times the normal range, Cydnie alleged that her symptoms were consistently disregarded by healthcare providers. She recounted numerous visits to Epsom Hospital and St Helier Hospital over the following two years, where she felt her concerns were repeatedly dismissed despite her worsening condition.
In April 2025, after her belly continued to swell following a holiday, Cydnie sought medical assistance at a different facility. Doctors initially suspected fluid retention but later diagnosed her with stage four ovarian cancer, leading to surgery to remove 15 tumors and a hysterectomy.
Following the surgery and six rounds of chemotherapy, Cydnie was informed in May 2026 that she was in remission. She emphasized the importance of early detection and urged other women to be vigilant about any symptoms related to ovarian cancer.
Reflecting on her ordeal, Cydnie expressed frustration at the delayed diagnosis that resulted in the cancer spreading extensively. She emphasized the need for individuals to advocate for their health and not settle for inconclusive answers from medical professionals, especially when symptoms persist.
In response to Cydnie’s experience, a spokesperson from Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust acknowledged her ordeal and pledged to investigate the matter further.
Ovarian cancer affects the ovaries, responsible for egg storage and hormone production. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, typically involving surgery and chemotherapy.
