It is estimated that more than 15,500 women will die in the United States from ovarian cancer this year. Many women don’t seek help until the disease has begun to spread. The symptoms of ovarian cancer are often subtle and easily confused with other ailments.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is cancer that develops in the ovaries. The ovaries are part of a woman’s reproductive system. They are located in the pelvis on either side of the uterus. Each ovary is about the size of an almond. The ovaries make the female hormones progesterone and estrogen and also release eggs into the fallopian tubes.

Cancer begins at a cellular level. Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cells. These new cells take the place of old cells as they die. Cancer cells continue to grow and divide. These abnormal cells continue to create new cells forming a tumor.

Signs & Symptoms


button Bloating
button Pelvic or Abdominal pain
button Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
button Urinary urgency or frequency

Other symptoms may include:

button Nausea, indigestion, gas, constipation or diarrhea
button Extreme fatigue
button Shortness of breath
button Backaches



Your doctor may order the following tests:

  1. Physical examination – Your doctor will palpate your abdomen to look for discomfort and tenderness or abnormal fluid
  2. Pelvic examination
  4. Ultrasound
  5. Biopsy

Stages of Ovarian Cancer

There are four stages of ovarian cancer. Your doctor will determine your stage of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is treated differently depending on which stage you are diagnosed with. The four primary stages are:

Recurrent: The cancer has returned after successful treatment.

Risk Factors


button Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
button Personal history of cancer
button Women over the age of 55
button Women who were never pregnant
button Women on menopausal hormone replacement therapy

Source: Ovarian Cancer Awareness
