Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is also known as one of the silent killers of cancer, and it is 3 times more lethal than breast cancer. The growth of cells in the ovaries is known as ovarian cancer, and the cells tend to multiply and invade quickly to destroy healthy body tissue. There are two ovaries, one on each side of the uterus.
Ovarian cancer symptoms
Ovarian cancer symptoms can occur more frequently (12 or more times per month). They are:
- Swollen or bloated abdomen
- Tenderness or pain in the abdomen or pelvis (between the hips)
- Loss of appetite
- Often need or urge to urinate
Other symptoms are:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Back pain
- Tiredness
- Abrupt weight loss
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
Though these symptoms are common for many different conditions, it’s crucial to consult a doctor since finding it earlier is more treatable if it’s cancer.
“Also, ensure that you mention to your doctor if any of your family members has or had breast or ovarian cancer.”
Ovarian cancer causes
The risks of developing ovarian cancer can increase with age. Anyone with ovaries can develop ovarian cancer, including women, trans men, intersex people and non-binary people with ovaries. People cannot develop ovarian cancer after the removal of the ovaries. The following are the causes that may increase the chances of developing ovarian cancer:
- Family genes
- History of breast and bowel cancer
- Undergone radiotherapy
- Diabetes or endometriosis
- Started menstrual cycle at a young age, went through menopause after 55 or not had a baby (these indicate that you ovulated more)
- Undergoing hormone replacement therapy
- Obesity
- Smoking
Ovarian cancer treatments
The treatments of ovarian cancer depend on:
- Type and size of the cancer
- The placement of the cancer
- The spread of the cancer
- Your overall general health
The standard treatments for ovarian cancer include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy
- Hormone therapy
- Targeted therapy
Younger women who undergo ovarian cancer treatments may have problems with their periods and fertility, which can lead to their inability to have a baby.
Advanced ovarian cancer is hard to treat, and there may not be possible to cure cancer. So the doctors aim to limit cancer and its symptoms with the treatments to help you live longer.
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022