Ovarian Cancer

Overview

Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. Often called the "silent killer," ovarian cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in early stages. When symptoms do occur, they're often vague and can be mistaken for other conditions. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms often develop when the cancer has spread, but may include:

  • Bloating: Persistent abdominal bloating or swelling
  • Pelvic or abdominal pain: Discomfort in lower abdomen
  • Difficulty eating: Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite
  • Urinary symptoms: Urgency or frequency
  • Fatigue: Persistent tiredness
  • Back pain: Lower back discomfort
  • Constipation: Changes in bowel habits
  • Menstrual changes: Irregular periods or postmenopausal bleeding
  • Abdominal swelling: Increase in abdominal size
  • Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss
  • Pain during intercourse: Dyspareunia

Risk Factors

  • Age: Most common after menopause
  • Family history: Ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
  • Genetic mutations: BRCA1, BRCA2, Lynch syndrome
  • Personal history: Breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer
  • Endometriosis: Increased risk
  • Never pregnant: Nulliparity
  • Infertility: Or fertility treatments
  • Hormone therapy: Postmenopausal estrogen use
  • Early menstruation/late menopause: Longer reproductive years
  • Obesity: Increased risk

Types of Ovarian Cancer

  • Epithelial tumors: Most common (90%), from outer ovary layer
  • Germ cell tumors: From egg-producing cells, more common in younger women
  • Stromal tumors: From hormone-producing tissue

Diagnostic Tests

  • Pelvic examination: Physical exam of reproductive organs
  • Transvaginal ultrasound: Imaging of ovaries
  • CA-125 blood test: Tumor marker (not definitive)
  • CT or MRI scan: Detailed imaging
  • PET scan: To check for cancer spread
  • Biopsy: Tissue sample for diagnosis
  • Genetic testing: For hereditary cancer syndromes

Screening and Prevention

  • No routine screening: For average-risk women
  • High-risk screening: Regular ultrasounds and CA-125 for high-risk women
  • Genetic counseling: If family history present
  • Preventive surgery: Option for very high-risk women
  • Oral contraceptives: May reduce risk
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Protective factors
  • Tubal ligation: May reduce risk

When to See a Doctor

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Bloating that occurs daily for more than 2-3 weeks
  • Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly for several weeks
  • Urinary urgency or frequency without infection
  • Any combination of the above symptoms
  • Postmenopausal bleeding
  • Family history of ovarian or breast cancer

Important Note

These symptoms are often caused by benign conditions, but persistent symptoms warrant medical evaluation. Early detection of ovarian cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes. Women with strong family histories should discuss genetic testing and preventive options with their healthcare providers.