Ovarian cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system and are responsible for producing eggs and female hormones. Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because early disease usually causes few or no symptoms.

The most common type is epithelial ovarian cancer, which arises from the surface cells of the ovary or nearby tissues. Less common types include germ cell tumors and sex cord–stromal tumors, which behave differently and may require different treatment approaches.

At OncoClinic, we coordinate appropriate diagnostics and specialist review, provide clear explanations, and guide a personalized care plan aligned to your diagnosis and goals.

Signs and symptoms

• Persistent abdominal bloating or swelling
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Feeling full quickly when eating
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Other symptoms can include increased abdominal size due to fluid buildup, shortness of breath, and back pain

Symptoms that are new, persistent, or occur frequently should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Risk factors

• Age: Increasing age, especially after menopause
• Family History: Family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
• Genetic Factors: Inherited genetic mutations, particularly BRCA1 and BRCA2
• Hereditary Conditions: Hereditary cancer syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome
• Reproductive History: Never having been pregnant
• Menstrual History: Early onset of menstruation or late menopause
• Hormonal Factors: Hormone replacement therapy after menopause (long-term use)
• Protective Factors: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and use of oral contraceptives

Screening

There is no effective routine screening test for ovarian cancer in the general population.

Tests such as CA-125 blood testing and transvaginal ultrasound have not been shown to reduce mortality when used for screening in women without symptoms. Therefore, routine screening is not recommended for women at average risk.

Screening recommendation

High-risk women, such as those with BRCA mutations or strong family history, may benefit from:

• Individualized surveillance
• Genetic counseling
• Consideration of risk-reducing surgery

Women should discuss personal risk and preventive strategies with their healthcare provider.

Diagnosis

Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed after symptoms prompt further evaluation.

Diagnostic evaluation may include:

• Pelvic examination
• Transvaginal or pelvic ultrasound
• Blood tests, including CA-125 and other tumor markers
• CT or MRI scans of the abdomen and pelvis to assess disease extent

A definitive diagnosis is usually made during surgery, when tissue samples are examined by a pathologist.

Staging

After diagnosis, staging determines how far the cancer has spread and guides treatment planning.

Staging evaluation may include:

• CT scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis
• PET/CT in selected cases
• Surgical staging, which includes evaluation of the abdomen and lymph nodes

• Stage I: Cancer confined to one or both ovaries
• Stage II: Cancer has spread to nearby pelvic structures
• Stage III: Cancer has spread within the abdomen or to lymph nodes
• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs such as the lungs or liver

Treatment and procedures

At OncoClinic, ovarian cancer care is delivered through a multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach. Treatment is tailored according to cancer stage, tumor biology, and overall health.

Surgery: Surgery is a cornerstone of ovarian cancer treatment and aims to remove as much visible disease as possible. When surgery is indicated, procedures are performed at our accredited partner hospitals under the direct coordination and supervision of our medical team, ensuring continuity and quality of care.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is commonly used after surgery and, in some cases, before surgery. It is usually administered intravenously or directly into the abdomen.

Targeted therapy: Treatments, such as PARP inhibitors, may be used in selected patients, particularly those with specific genetic mutations.

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is being used in selected cases and is an area of ongoing research.

Combined treatment strategies: Most patients receive a combination of surgery and systemic therapy to achieve the best outcomes.

Palliative and supportive care: Supportive care focuses on symptom management, nutritional support, pain control, emotional support, and quality of life at all stages of disease.

References

Ovarian cancer overview
American Cancer Society, 2026

Ovarian cancer – patient version
National Cancer Institute (NCI), 2026

NCCN clinical practice guidelines in oncology: ovarian cancer
National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), latest version

Epithelial ovarian cancer
Lheureux S et al. – The Lancet, 2019

Ovarian cancer, NCCN guidelines insights
Armstrong DK et al. – Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, 2019