Early detection of ovarian cancer may be very important, so regular checkups may help to catch the disease at an early stage. Some women who develop ovarian cancer may have a family history of cancer, but others do not. The exact cause of the disease may not be fully understood. Post-menopausal women may be more likely to get ovarian cancer. Women who have never been pregnant may also be at a greater risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer may not come with any symptoms at first, although many women may experience certain symptoms in the first 6 to 12 months before ovarian cancer is usually detected. Gas and pain or swelling in the belly may be the most common symptoms. Diarrhea or constipation and an upset stomach may be other symptoms of the disease. These symptoms may be very general and may be characteristics of other diseases or conditions, making diagnosis tough.

In diagnosing ovarian cancer, a doctor may feel a lump in or on an ovary during an exam. An ultrasound may also reveal a lump, although these lumps may not be cancer. The only way to know for sure if a woman has ovarian cancer may be to perform a biopsy.

Treatment for ovarian cancer may involve surgery. A doctor may remove any tumors that may be visible. This may mean removing one or both ovaries or may involve the removal of the uterus or fallopian tubes.

Chemotherapy may be used after surgery to kill any cancer cells. Ovarian cancer may reappear after treatment, so regular checkups may be required. Effectiveness of treatments may depend on how much the cancer has spread, how much cancer may be left behind after surgery and the age and health of the patient.

A health care professional may be helpful in discussing possible treatments and may recommend further treatments. Diet and lifestyle changes may support a cancer-free recovery.

   Collapse Article