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Ovarian Cancer
Urgent
Ovarian cancer is a group of cancers that begin in or around the ovaries. It may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, and symptoms can resemble common digestive or urinary problems. Possible symptoms include persistent abdominal or pelvic discomfort, bloating, feeling full quickly, changes in bowel or bladder habits, fatigue, and unexplained weight changes. Several types of ovarian cancer exist, and treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, and individual circumstances.
Body System
Female Reproductive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Ovarian cancer requires prompt medical evaluation when persistent or unexplained symptoms occur. Seek assessment for ongoing abdominal or pelvic pain, swelling or pressure, persistent bloating, difficulty eating or feeling full, urinary changes, unexplained weight loss, or worsening symptoms. Emergency care is needed for sudden severe abdominal or pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or rapid deterioration.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Ovarian cancer is a group of cancers that begin in or around the ovaries. It may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, and symptoms can resemble common digestive or urinary problems. Possible symptoms include persistent abdominal or pelvic discomfort, bloating, feeling full quickly, changes in bowel or bladder habits, fatigue, and unexplained weight changes. Several types of ovarian cancer exist, and treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, and individual circumstances.
Symptoms 3
Persistent Hoarseness
Skin Redness
Weight Loss
Causes 1
The exact cause of most ovarian cancers is not known. Cancer develops when cells acquire genetic changes that cause abnormal growth and survival. Risk is influenced by factors such as increasing age, inherited genetic changes including BRCA1 or BRCA2 variants, family history, and certain reproductive or hormonal factors. Some ovarian cancers arise from cells in the fallopian tube or nearby tissues rather than directly from the ovarian surface. Different ovarian cancer types have different biological characteristics and risk factors.
Genetics
Risk Factors
Risk factors for ovarian cancer include increasing age, certain inherited genetic variants such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, a strong family history of ovarian, breast, or related cancers, and some reproductive or hormonal factors. Risk can also be influenced by personal medical history. Having a risk factor does not mean cancer will develop, and many people diagnosed with ovarian cancer have no strong identifiable risk factor. Genetic counseling may be appropriate for people with significant family histories.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis of ovarian cancer generally involves a pelvic examination, review of symptoms and medical history, imaging, and laboratory evaluation. Ultrasound may help characterize an ovarian or pelvic mass, while CT or MRI may provide additional information about disease extent. Blood tests such as CA-125 can sometimes support evaluation but cannot by themselves diagnose ovarian cancer because levels may be abnormal for other reasons. Definitive diagnosis usually requires examination of tissue by a pathologist, often after surgery or biopsy.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
There is no certain way to prevent all ovarian cancers
People with a strong family history or known inherited cancer-related genetic variants should discuss individualized risk assessment and genetic counseling with a qualified healthcare professional
Some reproductive and hormonal factors are associated with risk, but preventive decisions depend on individual circumstances
Awareness of persistent abdominal or pelvic symptoms can support earlier medical evaluation
Routine screening is not recommended for average-risk people as a general method of preventing or detecting ovarian cancer early
Prevention Guidance
There is no certain way to prevent all ovarian cancers. People with a strong family history or known inherited cancer-related genetic variants should discuss individualized risk assessment and genetic counseling with a qualified healthcare professional. Some reproductive and hormonal factors are associated with risk, but preventive decisions depend on individual circumstances. Awareness of persistent abdominal or pelvic symptoms can support earlier medical evaluation. Routine screening is not recommended for average-risk people as a general method of preventing or detecting ovarian cancer early.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Fresh Fruits
Rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
Green Leafy Vegetables
Support overall health and recovery.
Lean Protein
Supports tissue repair and strength.
Whole Grains
Provide fiber and nutrients.
Foods to Avoid
Processed Meat
May negatively affect long-term health.
Alcohol
May impair recovery.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the ovaries.
Abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, and loss of appetite are common symptoms.
Women with family history or genetic mutations have higher risk.
Ultrasound, CT scan, and biopsy are commonly used.
Yes, surgery and cancer therapies are commonly used.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.