Ovarian Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries. The ovaries are small organs in a woman’s lower belly. They make eggs and female hormones. Ovarian cancer can be hard to find early because symptoms are often mild at first. However, knowing the basics can help you spot early signs of ovarian cancer and seek help sooner.

Common Symptoms

Many women do not notice symptoms until the cancer has spread. Still, some early signs of ovarian cancer can appear. It is important to pay attention to your body. Common symptoms include:

Feeling bloated or full quickly

Stomach or pelvic pain

Needing to urinate often or urgently

Changes in bowel habits, like constipation

Loss of appetite or weight loss

Feeling tired all the time

Sometimes, these symptoms are caused by other health problems. But if they last more than two weeks, you should see a doctor.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors do not know the exact cause of ovarian cancer. Still, some risk factors can raise your chances. Knowing these can help you stay alert. Key ovarian cancer risk factors include:

Being over age 50

Family history of ovarian or breast cancer

Having certain gene changes, like BRCA1 or BRCA2

Never having been pregnant

Starting periods early or menopause late

Using hormone replacement therapy for a long time

On the other hand, some women with these risk factors never get ovarian cancer. Others with no risk factors may still develop it. Therefore, regular check-ups are important.

Diagnosis Methods

If your doctor suspects ovarian cancer, several tests can help find out more. Early diagnosis can improve treatment results. Common diagnosis methods include:

Pelvic exam to check for lumps or swelling

Ultrasound to look at the ovaries

Blood tests, such as CA-125, to find certain markers

CT scans or MRI for detailed images

Biopsy, where a small tissue sample is checked for cancer cells

Doctors may use more than one test to confirm the diagnosis. According to the CDC, early detection is key for better outcomes.

Treatment Options

Treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer. Your doctor will discuss the best plan for you. Main ovarian cancer treatment options include:

Surgery to remove the tumor or ovaries

Chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill cancer cells

Targeted therapy, which attacks cancer cells in specific ways

Radiation therapy, though it is less common for ovarian cancer

Sometimes, doctors use a mix of these treatments. New treatments are being studied to improve results and reduce side effects.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

While you cannot prevent all cases, some steps may lower your risk. Healthy habits can also support your overall well-being. Consider these tips:

Stay at a healthy weight

Eat a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables

Exercise regularly

Discuss your family history with your doctor

Consider genetic counseling if you have a strong family history

Use birth control pills only after talking with your doctor

Even with these steps, regular check-ups are important. Early action can make a big difference.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice symptoms like bloating, pain, or changes in your bathroom habits, do not ignore them. Especially if these signs last more than two weeks, see your doctor. Early signs of ovarian cancer can be easy to miss, but quick action helps. In addition, if you have a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, talk to your doctor about your risk. Ovarian cancer awareness is important for every woman.

Consult a healthcare specialist at Dr. Hemanth Parigala for personalized advice on ovarian cancer.