Ovarian cancer awareness: What you should know

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest and second most common gynecologic cancer in the United States. Unfortunately, most cases aren’t diagnosed until they’re at an advanced stage. That means ovarian cancer often is deadly. But you can help protect yourself and others by knowing if you’re at risk, recognizing the symptoms, and speaking up about any health concerns.

Get up to speed on ovarian cancer awareness with help from LCMC Health.

What is ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is cancer that starts in the ovaries, a pair of walnut-sized organs in a woman’s pelvis. This type of cancer can spread from the ovaries to other parts of the body. Ovarian cancer isn’t the same as ovarian cysts, which are common, usually harmless, growths in or near the ovaries.

Types of ovarian cancer

Typically, there are three types of ovarian cancer:

• Epithelial ovarian cancer: The most common type of ovarian cancer that develops from tissues that line the surface of the ovary. Treatment is the same as treatments for cancers of the fallopian tube and peritoneum (lining of the abdomen and pelvis).
• Germ cell ovarian cancer: A rare type of ovarian cancer that starts in the ova (cells that make eggs). These tumors are more common in women in their teens and early twenties and highly curable, often without affecting fertility.
• Sex cord-stromal ovarian cancer: A very rare cancer that starts in the stromal cells, which make certain female hormones. Tumors form in connective tissues that hold the ovaries in place.

What are common ovarian cancer symptoms?

In the early stages of ovarian cancer, symptoms are often subtle. It’s easy to confuse them with other problems related to menstrual periods or digestion. Pay attention to your body, so you know what’s normal, and not normal, for you.

Look out for these symptoms, and let your healthcare provider know if they stick around:

• Back pain
• Belly swelling with weight loss
• Bloating
• Changes in urinary symptoms (like having to go often or all the time)
• Changes in your period
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Pain during sex
• Pelvic or belly pain
• Trouble eating or feeling full sooner than usual
• Upset stomach

Am I at risk for ovarian cancer?

Roughly 1 in every 91 women gets ovarian cancer in their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. As you get older, your risk for ovarian cancer goes up. Rates of ovarian cancer are highest in women ages 55-64 years.

You’re also at a higher risk if you have a history of infertility or endometriosis, previously used talcum powder, or deal with obesity.

Some genetic syndromes increase your risk of ovarian and other cancers. Therefore, if you have any personal or family history of ovarian, breast, uterine, colon, or other cancers, you should talk to your doctor about getting genetic testing. Your provider may be able to screen you for ovarian cancer or recommend risk-reducing strategies, such as surgery to remove gynecologic organs or oral contraceptive pills.

How do I know I have ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is hard to diagnose early, even for women who see their gynecologist regularly. Though the Pap smear is a great screening test for cervical cancer, it doesn’t usually detect cancer in the ovaries. That’s why you should never ignore changes in your body or dismiss symptoms that don’t feel right.

Knowing your risk level for ovarian cancer is helpful, too. Women at high risk of ovarian cancer can get screened regularly with blood tests and ultrasounds. These methods aren’t as effective for low-risk women.

If your doctor suspects ovarian cancer, they’ll refer you to a gynecologic oncologist, which is a gynecologist with extra training in treating cancer. An ultrasound and blood test can help confirm if you have ovarian cancer, along with a chest X-ray and CT scan to learn more about the cancer.

Ovarian cancer treatment in New Orleans

Gynecologic oncologists at LCMC Health specialize in finding the best ovarian cancer treatment for you. The treatment you receive depends on the type of cancer and its stage. Surgery is the primary treatment approach, sometimes in combination with chemotherapy.

Learn more about gynecologic cancer care at LCMC Health. Find a women’s health provider near you for regular women’s wellness check-ups.