Ovarian Cancer
For ovarian cancer, cytoreductive surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies (PARP inhibitors) are coordinated as a personalized plan across our accredited network.
What is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer forms from the uncontrolled growth of cells in the ovaries of the female reproductive system. The most common type is epithelial ovarian cancer.
Because its symptoms are vague, it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Paying attention to warning signs is therefore important for at-risk women.
What are the types of ovarian cancer?
Main types:
Causes and risk factors
Main risk factors:
- BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations and family history
- Older age and post-menopausal period
- Never having given birth
- Early menstruation, late menopause
- Lynch syndrome
- Endometriosis
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
Symptoms are usually subtle and appear late:
- Abdominal bloating and a feeling of tightness
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Feeling full quickly, loss of appetite
- Frequent urination
- A change in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight change and fatigue
What are the stages of ovarian cancer?
Staging is based on spread:
How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made with imaging, blood tests, and surgery:
- Pelvic examination
- CA-125 blood test
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- Definitive diagnosis and staging with tissue taken during surgery
Imaging methods in ovarian cancer
For diagnosis and assessing spread:
- Transvaginal and abdominal ultrasound
- Abdomen-pelvis CT
- Pelvic MRI
- PET-CT (in selected cases)
Ovarian cancer treatment methods
The foundation of treatment is surgery and chemotherapy:
Every patient and every tumor is different
No single treatment is right for everyone; the best plan depends on your exact diagnosis, stage, and tumor characteristics. At National Cancer Alliance, we arrange a free second opinion from board-certified oncologists to review your case.
Prognosis and survival rates
Prognosis in ovarian cancer depends largely on the stage at diagnosis. In early disease confined to the ovary, 5-year survival is high at about 90%, dropping in advanced disease.
How completely surgery removes the tumor and the tumor's genetic profile (BRCA status) are important factors. PARP inhibitors have improved survival in suitable patients.
How to reduce ovarian cancer risk
Approaches that help lower risk:
- Genetic counseling and BRCA testing if there is a family history
- Considering risk-reducing surgery options in high-risk women
- Knowing that oral contraceptive use can lower risk
- Regular gynecological check-ups
Frequently asked questions
Is there screening for ovarian cancer?
There is no routine screening test. However, high-risk (BRCA+) women may be offered close follow-up with CA-125 and ultrasound.
Is abdominal bloating important?
Persistent, new-onset bloating, early satiety, and pelvic pain together must be evaluated.
Can fertility be preserved?
In early stage and suitable tumor types, fertility-sparing surgery may be possible in young patients.
Should I get a second opinion?
The extent of surgery directly affects outcomes; review by an experienced gynecologic oncology center is very important.
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Get a FREE Second OpinionThis page provides general information about ovarian cancer; it is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All treatments are provided by independent, accredited hospitals and licensed physicians. Your treatment decision should be made by a qualified physician based on your individual situation.