Ovarian Cancer: What You Need to Know to Take Control of Your Health 

Ovarian Cancer: What You Need to Know to Take Control of Your Health 

Understand the risk factors, recognize the symptoms, and take proactive steps to protect yourself from this silent disease. 

Ovarian cancer affects 20,000 families each year in the United States, disrupting lives and taking more than 13,000 loved ones annually. Behind these numbers are real people, making awareness and early detection critical. 

This disease is often called a “silent killer” because its symptoms are subtle and difficult to detect in its early stages—when treatment is most effective. Understanding the risks and symptoms can empower you or someone you care about to detect this disease earlier. Small, proactive steps today could lead to life-saving outcomes. 

1. Learn to Recognize the Symptoms 
Ovarian cancer’s early symptoms can be easy to overlook because they often mimic less serious conditions. If you feel something isn’t right—such as persistent bloating or abdominal pain lasting two weeks or more—listen to your body and consult a healthcare provider. Early action could save your life. 

Why does this matter? Early consultation with a healthcare provider can lead to quicker diagnosis and treatment, improving survival rates significantly. According to the American Cancer Society, patients diagnosed at stage 1 have a five-year survival rate of 93%. 

Common early symptoms include: 
● Bloating or abdominal swelling 
● Pelvic or abdominal pain 
● Feeling full quickly after eating 
● Frequent or urgent urination 

Other potential symptoms: 
● Fatigue 
● Irregular vaginal bleeding 
● Unexplained weight loss or weight gain 
● Constipation or diarrhea 
● Back pain 

If something feels off, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about tests such as pelvic ultrasounds or bloodwork. Taking charge of your health is empowering and can provide valuable peace of mind.

2. Pap Tests Do Not Screen for Ovarian Cancer 
It’s unsettling to know there’s no routine screening for ovarian cancer. That’s why staying vigilant about symptoms and partnering with your doctor is so important. 

While there’s no routine screening for ovarian cancer, your doctor can recommend diagnostic tools like pelvic ultrasounds and CA-125 blood tests to address specific concerns and ensure you get the care you need. 

3. Know Your Risk Factors 
By understanding your personal risk factors, you can take control of your health and make proactive choices that protect your future. 

Key risk factors include: 
● Family History: A family history of ovarian, breast, uterine, colon, or rectal cancers increases your risk. 
● Genetics: Women with a BRCA1 mutation have a 39–44% lifetime risk of ovarian cancer, while those with BRCA2 have an 11–17% risk (National Cancer Institute). 
● Other Risk Factors: 

• Increasing age, particularly after age 50, when menopause typically begins 
• Obesity (BMI over 30) 
• Infertility 
• Having children later in life (after age 35) or not having a full-term pregnancy 

If you have a family history of cancer or other significant risk factors, consulting with a board-certified genetic counselor can provide insights into your risk and options for prevention. 

4. Some Factors Can Lower Your Risk 
While some risk factors are beyond your control, others can significantly reduce your likelihood of developing ovarian cancer. 

Why does this matter? Simple measures like taking birth control pills or breastfeeding can offer significant protection while supporting overall health. 
● Birth Control Pills: Studies show that using oral contraceptives for five or more years can lower your risk of ovarian cancer by up to 50% (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
● Childbirth and Breastfeeding: Giving birth and breastfeeding for at least a year are associated with reduced risk. 
● Surgical Interventions: 

• Women already undergoing pelvic surgeries, such as tubal ligation or hysterectomy, may discuss the option of removing their fallopian tubes with their surgeon, as research shows many ovarian cancers originate there. 
• For those at high genetic risk, preventive removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes may be an option to consider, even if no other surgery is planned. 

Always consult with your doctor to determine if these options align with your health needs and family planning goals. 

Take Action to Protect Your Health 
Every step you take toward understanding ovarian cancer brings hope—for you, for your loved ones, and for a future with earlier detection and better outcomes. Start today by scheduling a conversation with your doctor. Together, you can create a health plan tailored to your needs, giving you confidence and clarity about your next steps.