What is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is one of the deadliest cancers for women. There are different types of ovarian cancer but the most common type starts in the cells on the outside of the ovary.
How common is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is the second most common gynecologic cancer in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be more than 21,000 new cases of ovarian cancer and more than 12,000 deaths from ovarian cancer in 2026.
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
There is no single group of symptoms that clearly point to ovarian cancer, but common symptoms include:
- Bloating
- Feeling full quickly when eating
- Bladder problems
- Vaginal bleeding
If you have any of these symptoms for two weeks or longer, talk to your healthcare provider.
Is there a screening test for ovarian cancer?
Unfortunately, there is no screening test that can reliably find ovarian cancer early.
How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?
Because ovarian cancer does not have clear symptoms, it is often found after it has already spread. During a physical exam, a healthcare provider may feel a lump or mass in the pelvic area. Imaging tests may also show growths on the ovaries or in the abdomen.
What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer?
Your risk of getting ovarian cancer may be higher:
- As you get older, especially after middle age
- If your mother, sister, aunt, niece, or grandmother has had ovarian cancer
- If you or a family member has a genetic change called BRCA1 or BRCA2, or Lynch syndrome
- If you are of Eastern European or Ashkenazi Jewish background
- If you have not had children
- If you have endometriosis, a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus
How can I lower my risk of ovarian cancer?
You may be able to lower your risk of ovarian cancer by:
- Using birth control for five or more years
- Having surgery to remove your ovaries and/or fallopian tubes
- Having children
Some people choose to have their ovaries and/or fallopian tubes removed to lower their risk of ovarian cancer. This may be especially helpful for people with a family history of ovarian cancer or certain genetic conditions. It is also recommended for women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene changes between ages 35 and 45, or after they are done having children. It may also be recommended for women with Lynch syndrome. You should talk to your healthcare provider if you have questions.
How is ovarian cancer treated?
Treatment usually begins with surgery. Surgery helps determine how far the cancer has spread and removes as much of the cancer as possible. Most people also get chemotherapy after surgery.
Where can I learn more?
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the American Cancer Society.