What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer happens when cells in the ovaries or fallopian tubes start to grow out of control and form a tumor.

The ovaries are two small, oval-shaped organs in the female reproductive system. They make eggs and female hormones during the years when a woman can have children.

What are the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is sometimes called a “silent disease” because early symptoms are often mild or hard to notice. Many women only notice symptoms after the cancer has spread.

Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent abdominal or pelvic pain, discomfort, or bloating
  • Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, especially after menopause
  • Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
  • Increase in abdominal size
  • Frequent urination

What causes ovarian cancer?

Doctors do not know the exact cause of ovarian cancer, but some things can raise your risk, such as:

  • Age above 60 years
  • Obesity
  • Family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
  • Inherited gene mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, or Lynch syndrome
  • Never having been pregnant or having children later in life
  • Endometriosis

The chance of getting ovarian cancer goes up as you get older.

How does ovarian cancer spread?

Ovarian cancer can move from the pelvis to other parts of the body, such as:

  • Lymph nodes
  • Abdomen
  • Intestines and stomach
  • Liver
  • Chest and lungs

How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?

There is no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer, so it can be hard to find early.

If ovarian cancer is suspected, your doctor may recommend:

Physical examination

  • A pelvic exam to check for abnormal masses

Imaging tests

  • Pelvic ultrasound
  • CT scan
  • MRI
  • PET scan

Blood tests

  • CA-125 test, a tumor marker that may be elevated in ovarian cancer

    Note: CA-125 levels can be high in conditions that are not cancer, and they may be normal in early ovarian cancer.

Surgical evaluation

  • Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgery using a camera to examine the ovaries and surrounding organs
  • Tissue samples may be taken for confirmation

What are the stages of ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer has four stages:

Stage I: Cancer is limited to one or both ovaries or fallopian tubes.

Stage II: Cancer has spread to nearby pelvic organs such as the uterus.

Stage III: Cancer has spread beyond the pelvis to the abdomen or lymph nodes.

Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs like the liver, lungs, or chest lymph nodes.

Knowing the stage of the cancer helps doctors choose the best treatment.

How is ovarian cancer treated?

Treatment of Ovarian Cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as your overall health. Common treatments are:

  • Surgery: Removal of ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and any visible cancer tissue
  • Chemotherapy: Medicines that kill cancer cells, given before or after surgery
  • Targeted therapy: Drugs that specifically attack cancer cells while sparing normal cells
  • Hormone therapy: Used in certain hormone-sensitive ovarian cancers
  • Radiation therapy: Rarely used for ovarian cancer

After treatment, it is important to have regular check-ups to track your recovery and catch any return of the cancer early.

What happens after ovarian cancer treatment?

Your doctor will schedule regular check-ups that may include:

  • Physical examinations
  • Blood tests
  • Imaging studies such as CT scans

Let your doctor know right away if you notice any new or unusual symptoms.

What is the survival rate for ovarian cancer?

About 49% of women with ovarian cancer are still alive five years after diagnosis.

Survival depends on factors such as:

  • Stage at diagnosis
  • Type of ovarian cancer
  • Response to treatment

Your doctor can help you understand what this means for you personally.

Can ovarian cancer be prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent ovarian cancer. However,

  • Genetic testing can identify high-risk individuals
  • Women with BRCA mutations may consider preventive surgery after completing their family
  • Awareness of symptoms helps with early diagnosis

When should I see a doctor?

See a doctor if you experience:

  • Persistent bloating or abdominal pain
  • Unexplained weight or appetite changes
  • Irregular vaginal bleeding
  • Frequent urination or bowel changes

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Ovarian Cancer treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Ovarian Cancer treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced gynecologic oncologists and cancer specialists, known as some of the best doctors for women’s cancer care. We provide accurate diagnosis with advanced imaging and biopsy tests, personalized treatment including surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, and complete supportive care. Our team has decades of experience in successfully treating Ovarian Cancer in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Ovarian Cancer treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

Request an Appointment
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