4 things you need to know about ovarian cancer
What is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumour in one or both ovaries.
While there are many types of ovarian cancer the three most common types of ovarian cancer are: the common epithelial type (90% of cases) that arises from the cells on the outside of the ovary; the germ cell type (around 4% of cases) that arises from the cells which produce eggs; and the rare stromal type arising from supporting tissues within the ovary.
It is estimated that more than 1,200 people were diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2023. The average age at diagnosis is 64 years old.
Ovarian cancer signs and symptoms
There are often no obvious signs of ovarian cancer, however you may have one or more of the following symptoms:
abdominal bloating
difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
frequent or urgent urination
back, abdominal or pelvic pain
constipation or diarrhoea
menstrual irregularities
tiredness
indigestion
pain during intercourse
unexplained weight loss or weight gain
These symptoms can be caused by other conditions but if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your local doctor.
Causes of ovarian cancer
Some factors that can increase your risk of ovarian cancer include:
age (risk increases for women over 50)
family history of ovarian, breast or bowel cancer
changes in the genes BRCA1 or BRCA2
being of Ashkenazi Jewish descent
early onset of periods (before 12 years) and late menopause
women who have not had children or had their first child after the age of 35
using oestrogen only hormone replacement therapy or fertility treatment
Diagnosis of ovarian cancer
If you are experiencing possible symptoms of ovarian cancer your doctor may suggest several tests or scans to look for cysts, tumours or other changes. These may include:
Physical examination
In which the doctor will check your abdomen for any lumps and do an internal vaginal examination.
In which the doctor will check your abdomen for any lumps and do an internal vaginal examination.
Blood tests
To check for a common tumour marker for ovarian cancer, CA125.
To check for a common tumour marker for ovarian cancer, CA125.
Pelvic ultrasound
A pelvic ultrasound uses echoes from soundwaves to create a picture of your ovaries and uterus.
A pelvic ultrasound uses echoes from soundwaves to create a picture of your ovaries and uterus.
CT scan
A CT (computerised tomography) scan uses x-rays to take images of the inside of your body to check for cancer and to see if it has spread.
A CT (computerised tomography) scan uses x-rays to take images of the inside of your body to check for cancer and to see if it has spread.
PET scan
A PET (positron emission tomography) scan highlights abnormal tissues in the body.
A PET (positron emission tomography) scan highlights abnormal tissues in the body.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy, which is a bowel examination to ensure that symptoms are not caused by a bowel problem.
A colonoscopy, which is a bowel examination to ensure that symptoms are not caused by a bowel problem.
These tests can show if there are any abnormalities but a biopsy (taking a tissue sample) is the only way to confirm a cancer diagnosis.
After a diagnosis of ovarian cancer
After finding out you have ovarian cancer, you may feel shocked, upset, anxious or confused. These are normal responses. It may be helpful to talk about your treatment options with your doctor, family and friends. Seek as much information as you feel you need. It is up to you how involved you want to be in making decisions about your treatment.
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