Ovarian cancer is a kind of cancer that begins within the ovaries. The female reproductive system has two ovaries, one side is the uterus. The ovaries, one about the size of an almond produce eggs (ova) as well as the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer usually goes undetected until it has spread inside the pelvis and abdomen. At this late stage, ovarian cancer is harder to treat and is frequently fatal. At the early stage ovarian cancer, in which the disease is confined to the ovary, is more likely to be treated successfully. Surgery and chemotherapy are likely to be used to treat ovarian cancer.

Early-stage ovarian cancer rarely causes any symptoms. Advanced-stage ovarian cancer may cause small and nonspecific symptoms that are normally mistaken for more common benign conditions. Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer may include:

• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Quickly feeling full when eating
• Weight loss
• Discomfort in the pelvis area
• Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
• A frequent need to urinate

The genetic counselor can help you decide what other genetic testing options may be available based on your personal and family history.

Factors that raise your risk factors of ovarian cancer include:

• Older age: Ovarian cancer can occur at all ages but it’s most common in women ages 50 to 60 years.
• Inherited gene mutations: A small percentage of ovarian cancers are developed from gene mutations you inherit from your parents. The genes known to raise the risk factor of ovarian cancer are called breast cancer gene 1 (BRCA1) and breast cancer gene 2 (BRCA2).These genes also raise the risk of breast cancer. Other gene mutations, including those linked with Lynch syndrome, are known to raise the risk of ovarian cancer.
• A family history of ovarian cancer: Those People who close two or more relatives with ovarian cancer have a raised risk of the disease.
• Estrogen hormone replacement therapy: particularly with long-term use and in large doses.
• Age when menstruation started and ended: Beginning menstruation at the younger age or starting menopause at a later age, or both may raise the risk factor of ovarian cancer.