Ovarian Cancer/ Cancer of the Ovaries

Ovarian cancer begins with the abnormal growth of cells in the ovaries. It is most common among women who have been through menopause or who have never had any children.

Types of Ovarian Cancer

Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

This is the most common type of ovarian cancer. It originates in the epithelium which are the outer cells that cover the ovary.

Borderline Tumors

These are a group of epithelial tumors that are not much aggressive. They may also be called ‘low malignant potential’ or LMP tumors.

Germ Cell Ovarian Cancer

This is a rare type of ovarian cancer and begins in the egg-producing cells within the ovary. It occurs primarily in teenage girls and young women.

Sex-cord Stromal Cell Ovarian Cancer

It begins in the stroma or the sex cords that support the ovary and the development of other cells.

Signs & Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Symptoms of ovarian cancer are not specific to the disease and can often mimic symptoms of other common conditions like digestive and bladder issues.

Abdominal pressure, fullness, swelling, or bloating
Pelvic discomfort or pain
Persistent indigestion, gas, or nausea
Changes in bladder habits, including frequent urination
Loss of appetite or quickly feeling full
Increased abdominal girth
A persistent lack of energy
Lower back pain

Treatment of Ovarian Cancer

Almost all women with ovarian cancer need surgery. The surgery is usually followed by chemotherapy.

Surgery

This typically involves the removal of the reproductive organs and any other organ that has cancer. Surgical options include a hysterectomy, removing one or both ovaries, and removing affected lymph nodes.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is most effective when the cancer cells are actively growing and the tumor is small. It should be started soon after surgery as some cancer cells may be left in the body.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy may be used when the cancer is confined to the pelvic cavity or in advanced cases to reduce the size of the cancer. It uses special x-rays that damage the DNA or genetic code in the cancer cells and stop them from growing.