Ovarian cancer develops in the ovaries. It is the fifth most common women’s cancer, affecting millions of women per year. In a female reproductive system, the ovaries are two almond-sized organs that sit on either side of the uterus. The ovaries produce ova (or eggs) as well as progesterone and estrogen hormones.

Ovarian cancer claims many lives because it’s very hard to detect ovarian cancer in the early stages. Rather, most cases of ovarian cancer are detected in the late stages when it’s difficult to treat. However, certain causes or risk factors contribute to the prevalence of ovarian cancer, including:

• Family history: Genetics are a major factor in the development of ovarian cancer. If a woman has a family history of ovarian cancer, her chances of being affected by the condition become significantly higher.
• Menopause: Most common stage where women are more likely to suffer from ovarian cancer is menopause. Therefore, this condition is mostly seen in women over the age of 63. Only in very rare cases, it can be seen before the age of 40.
• Birth control pills: Taking oral contraception can also increase the risk of ovarian cancer, but the risk reduces once you stop taking the birth control pills.
• Weight: Women who are overweight are also more prone to ovarian cancer.
• Infertility issues
• Breast cancer patients: Women who’ve already been diagnosed with breast cancer are also at higher risk of developing cancer.

Common symptoms of ovarian cancer
Symptoms of ovarian cancer are often subtle and difficult to detect, however, they may include:

• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Pain in the pelvis area
• Indigestion
• Frequent urination
• Back pain
• Constipation

Screening options for ovarian cancer are usually prompted by the above-mentioned symptoms. There are a number of methods available for ovarian cancer screening, including:

• Transvaginal Ultrasound
• Serum CA 125
• Combination of CA 125 and Transvaginal Ultrasound

Ovarian cancer like many other types of cancer occur in stages, which often determine the course of treatment doctors prescribe:

• Stage 1: where only ovaries are affected
• Stage 2: where the ovaries along with organs in the pelvis are also affected.
• Stage 3: where the ovaries along with lymph nodes or abdominal lining are affected.
• Stage 4: where the ovaries along with other body parts are also affected.

When it comes to treating ovarian cancer, doctors will choose a treatment or combination of treatments based on the patient’s age, health, and cancer stage. For example, treatment options for ovarian cancer may include chemotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy, hormone therapy and radiation therapy, or a combination of options.

Every treatment method has its own advantages and disadvantages and hence you should talk to your doctor to understand the pros and cons of each treatment.