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Ovarian Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors & Treatment Options

By Dr. Aditya Vidushi in Medical Oncology , Paediatric (Ped)/Medical Oncology , Musculoskeletal Oncology

Jun 04 , 2025 | 4 min read

When it comes to women's health, awareness can be lifesaving—especially with conditions like ovarian cancer. Often called the "silent killer," ovarian cancer is difficult to detect early and, unlike other cancers, doesn't have a standard screening test. That means women need to rely on knowledge, attention to symptoms, and regular health checkups to protect themselves.

Why is There No Standard Screening Test for Ovarian Cancer?

Many people are surprised to learn that, unlike breast or cervical cancer, there's currently no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer.

This is mainly because:

The ovaries are located deep in the pelvis, making tumors harder to detect during routine exams.
Early-stage ovarian cancer often has vague or no symptoms.
Common tests, such as pelvic ultrasounds and CA-125 blood tests, alone not specific & sensitive enough to be used as screening tools for all women.

Common Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored

The early signs of ovarian cancer are often mild and mistaken for other common conditions, like digestive issues or menstrual discomfort. However, persistent or frequent symptoms should not be ignored.

Watch out for:

Abdominal bloating or swelling
Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
Feeling full quickly while eating
Frequent or urgent need to urinate
Unexplained weight loss
Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation

If these symptoms occur almost daily and last for more than two weeks, it's essential to consult a doctor. They might not mean cancer—but it's better to get yourself checked.

Who Is at Risk of Ovarian Cancer?

Understanding your risk factors is an important part of ovarian cancer awareness. Certain genetic, medical, and lifestyle factors can increase a woman's risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Genetic Risk Factors

BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations (the same ones linked to breast cancer)
A family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
Lynch syndrome or other inherited cancer syndromes

Lifestyle and Medical Risk Factors

Age (most common in women over 50)
Never having been pregnant/ Nulliparity
Endometriosis
Early menarche and late menopause

Women with these risk factors should discuss their health history with a doctor. Genetic counselling and testing may be recommended.

How Early Detection Is Still Possible

Although we lack a standard screening test, early detection of ovarian cancer is still possible—but it relies heavily on self-awareness and medical follow-up.

Key actions include:

Knowing your body and recognising changes
Being aware of ovarian cancer symptoms
Tracking family medical history
Speaking up during routine gynaecological visits if anything feels off

Catching the disease early makes treatment more effective, and survival rates improve significantly.

What Women Can Do to Monitor Their Health

Here are simple yet powerful female cancer prevention tips every woman should follow:

Pay attention to symptoms and don't ignore persistent discomfort
Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly
Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
Be proactive with family history awareness
Contraceptive measures such as Tubal ligation and prolonged use of OCPs may be a protective factor.

Empowerment through education and routine habits can make a big difference in long-term health.

Importance of Regular Gynecological Exams

Even without a specific screening test, regular pelvic exams are crucial. Your gynaecologist can detect unusual changes, lumps, or signs that may lead to further testing.

Discuss any unusual symptoms, no matter how minor they seem. Doctors rely on your input to investigate early signs.

Women at high risk may also benefit from:

Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS)
CA-125 blood tests (although not specific, useful in high-risk individuals)

These tests are not recommended for general screening but may be helpful in certain cases with your doctor's guidance.

Diagnostic Tools and When to Use Them

If symptoms or risk factors raise suspicion, your doctor may use several tools to help detect ovarian cancer early:

Transvaginal ultrasound (TVS): Ultrasound to look at the ovaries.
CA-125 blood test: Measures levels of a protein that can be elevated in ovarian cancer.
CT scans or MRI: To assess the size and spread of tumors.

These tools are used for diagnosis—not general screening—making it even more important to catch symptoms early and get evaluated quickly.

Treatment Options If Diagnosed

Ovarian cancer treatment depends on the stage and type of cancer but often includes a combination of:

Surgery to remove the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and possibly the uterus and nearby tissues
Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells or prevent them from returning
Targeted therapy for specific genetic mutations
Hormonal or radiation therapy, in select cases

Treatment is most successful when the cancer is found early—another reason why awareness and vigilance are vital.

Conclusion

While ovarian cancer doesn't have a screening test, it doesn't mean you're powerless. Recognising ovarian cancer symptoms, knowing your risks, and staying proactive with your health can help you catch signs early and improve your chances of successful treatment.

Let's spread ovarian cancer awareness and empower women with the knowledge they need to stay healthy and informed—because early detection starts with you.