Reduce Your Risk Of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the tissue of an ovary (glands that make eggs and hormones). Ovarian cancer can often have symptoms similar to cervical and endometrial cancer. And it may be misdiagnosed as menstrual problems. 

Tina Ayeni, MD, gynecologic oncology specialist with Franciscan Physician Network Gynecologic Oncology Specialists in Indianapolis, shares insights on ovarian cancer – the risk factors, symptoms and the latest treatments.

How Common Ovarian Cancer Is

While the incidence of ovarian cancer is on the decline, the American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, 20,890 new cases of ovarian cancer will be diagnosed in women in the United States.

Factors That Increase The Risk Of Ovarian Cancer

Several factors contribute to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Because genes change over time, one significant factor is the genetic changes that happen during your lifetime. Genetic changes can be inherited, meaning passed down from a parent. For some women with genetic mutations such as the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, the risk of developing ovarian cancer can increase to 50% within their lifetime.

Age is also a major factor in ovarian cancer. As women age, the risk of developing ovarian cancer increases significantly, and women over 55 have the highest risk.

In addition to genetics and age, other risk factors contribute to ovarian cancer. These include:

• Hormone use: Women using estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy for menopause or an extended period
• Reproductive history: Women who have not been pregnant or have not used birth control
• Obesity: Women with a body mass index (BMI) over 30
• Smoking: Women who use tobacco products

It is important for women of all ages to get regular gynecological (pelvic) exams and to be aware of the risk factors, Dr. Ayeni said. Screening can help detect ovarian cancer in its early stages. Knowing the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer can also help you make informed decisions about your health.

Factors That May Lower Your Risk Of Ovarian Cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, some factors associated with lower risk of ovarian cancer include:

• Pregnancy/higher number of children
• Later age for first menstrual period
• Earlier age at menopause
• Fallopian tube ligation or removal (salpingectomy)
• Use of hormonal contraceptives.

Listen Now: Ovarian Cancer

Dr. Tina Ayeni discusses ovarian cancer and other gynecological cancers on the Franciscan Health Docpod podcast.

 

Common Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer

“In the medical field, we’ve often thought of ovarian cancer as a silent cancer, without any obvious symptoms,” said Dr. Ayeni. “We’re trying to rewrite that book because there are actually symptoms attributed to ovarian cancer.”

Changes in urination habits and frequency are common symptoms in women diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

“They often report that they’ve had increased urinary frequency in the preceding six to 12 months,” said Dr. Ayeni. “This increased frequency can make a woman wonder if it’s a bladder or urinary tract infection and whether she needs antibiotics.” Sometimes women will get antibiotics, and though the symptoms lessen, they return.

Another common symptom Dr. Ayeni sees with ovarian cancer is new back pain, which differs from typical back pain.

“Back pain is a symptom to share with your primary care provider,” she said, “so they can perform the appropriate exam and schedule testing as needed.”

Other common symptoms of ovarian cancer include:

• Feelings of bloating or swelling in the abdomen
• Pelvic and abdominal pain
• Feeling full quickly
• Pain during intercourse
• Menstrual changes.

Treatments For Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is serious, and treatment will depend on the cancer stage, your age and your overall health and symptoms. Treatment usually includes a combination of surgery and chemotherapy.

Common treatments for ovarian cancer include:

• Surgery: The primary treatment for ovarian cancer is surgery. The type of surgery depends on the cancer stage, and it may involve removing one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes and the uterus.
• Chemotherapy: Medicine to help eliminate cancer cells, often used after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Radiation therapy: Intense energy used to eliminate any microscopic cancer cells, often used if chemotherapy fails or if cancer has spread.
• Targeted therapy: Medicine used to target specific molecules in cancer cells to treat recurrent or advanced ovarian cancer.

The Importance Of Annual Check-Ups

“An annual check-up is an important component of women’s preventive care,” said Dr. Ayeni. “Just as a woman gets regular yearly check-ups to assess their blood pressure, cholesterol, vision and skin, it’s important to get screened for diseases such as cancer.”

These screenings can help detect ovarian cancer and other cancers early when they are more easily treated.

Are you experiencing abnormal urinary changes, new back pain or gynecologic bleeding? If so, it’s important to talk to your provider about your risk of gynecological cancer, including ovarian cancer. Whether you can benefit from genetic testing or a cancer screening, don’t wait to get the information you need to keep yourself healthy. At Franciscan Health, we’re here to help you prioritize yourself – through every stage of life.