Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. Here’s what you need to know about ovarian cancer:
Symptoms: Early-stage ovarian cancer may not cause any symptoms. However, as the cancer grows, women may experience symptoms such as abdominal bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and frequent urination.
Risk factors: Women who have a family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer, have never been pregnant, have endometriosis, or have a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are at an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Diagnosis: Ovarian cancer is typically diagnosed through a pelvic exam, ultrasound, and blood tests. A biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Staging: Ovarian cancer is staged based on how far it has spread. The stages range from stage I (cancer is confined to the ovaries) to stage IV (cancer has spread to distant organs).
Treatment: Treatment for ovarian cancer typically involves surgery to remove the ovaries and other affected tissue, followed by chemotherapy. In some cases, radiation therapy may also be used.
Prognosis: The prognosis for ovarian cancer depends on the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. Early-stage ovarian cancer has a higher chance of being cured, while advanced-stage ovarian cancer has a poorer prognosis.
Prevention: There is no sure way to prevent ovarian cancer. However, some studies suggest that women who use oral contraceptives for at least five years may have a reduced risk of developing ovarian cancer.
It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have about ovarian cancer, especially if you have a family history of the disease or are experiencing symptoms. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes for women with ovarian cancer.
