Ovarian Cancer
Overview
This is a growth of cancer cells in one or both of
your ovaries. These organs are part of a woman's
reproductive system. They make your egg cells.
They also make hormones.
Causes
We aren't sure what causes ovarian cancer. It
starts with a mutation in a cell's DNA. These are the
genetic blueprints that tell cells how to grow and
function. The mutation makes the cells divide
abnormally and uncontrollably. A tumor is a mass of
these abnormal cells. Tumors that don't invade
other tissues are called "benign." They are not
cancer. Tumors that spread into other tissues are
called "malignant." This is cancer.
Risk Factors
Many factors can raise your risk for ovarian cancer.
Your risk gets higher as you get older. It's higher if
certain genes have been passed down to you.
You're more likely to get this cancer if you have had
breast cancer. Some other factors include being
overweight, using birth control, taking fertility drugs
or taking certain hormones.
Types
Cancer can begin in the cells that cover the outer
surface of the ovary. It can begin in the cells that
produce your eggs. Or, it can begin in the cells that
make hormones. These different cells can make
different types of tumors.
Symptoms
A heavy feeling in your pelvic region may be a sign
of ovarian cancer. You may feel pain in your lower
abdomen or back. You may bleed from your vagina.
Your periods may be abnormal. You may gain or
lose weight. You may have nausea, vomiting or
gas.
Treatment and Screening
Treatment depends on your cancer and your
needs. You may need to have surgery and
chemotherapy. Catching cancer early is important.
See your doctor regularly. And talk with your doctor
about ovarian cancer screening.