6 things to know about ovarian cancer

September marks Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month. That’s why we want everyone to learn more about gynaecological cancers, the signs and symptoms, where to find support and how you can help fund lifesaving research.

In recognition of this month, here are 6 things you should know about ovarian cancer.

1. What is ovarian cancer?

Most cases of ovarian cancer start in one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes or the peritoneum. The cells become abnormal, grow out of control and form a lump called a tumour. Cancer of the fallopian tube was once thought to be rare, but recent research suggests that many ovarian cancers start in the fallopian tubes.

2. Anyone can get ovarian cancer

Each year, about 1720 Australians are diagnosed with ovarian cancer – this includes serous carcinomas of the fallopian tube. Over 80% of people diagnosed are over the age of 50, but ovarian cancer can occur at any age. It is the 9th most common cancer in females in Australia.

Anyone with ovaries can get ovarian cancer, so it mostly affects women. Transgender men and intersex people can also get ovarian cancer if they have ovaries. For information specific to you, speak to your doctor.

3. Types of ovarian cancer

There are many types of ovarian cancer. The three main types start in different cells: epithelial, stromal or germ cells.

4. Getting older is one of the risk factors for ovarian cancer

The causes of ovarian cancer are largely unknown, but factors that can increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer include:

• age – ovarian cancer is most common in women over 50, women who have stopped having periods (have been through menopause), and the risk increases with age
• genetic factors – up to 20% of serious ovarian cancers (the most common subtype) are linked to an inherited faulty gene
• family history – having one or more close blood relatives (e.g. mother, sister) diagnosed with ovarian, breast, bowel or uterine cancers, or having Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
• having endometriosis 
• reproductive history – women who have not had children, who have had assisted reproduction (e.g. in-vitro fertilisation or IVF), or who have had children after the age of 35 may be slightly more at risk
• smoking or being overweight – linked to some types of ovarian cancer
• hormonal factors – such as early puberty or late menopause

Learn more about the causes of ovarian cancer.

5. Symptoms of ovarian cancer can be similar to other conditions

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be similar to other common conditions. This can make it difficult to diagnose early.

Symptoms are more likely to develop as the cancer grows and may include:

• pressure, pain or discomfort in the abdomen or pelvis
• a swollen or bloated abdomen
• changes in appetite (e.g. not feeling like eating, feeling full quickly)
• changes in toilet habits (e.g. constipation, diarrhoea, passing urine more often, increased wind)
• indigestion and feeling sick (nausea)
• feeling very tired
• unexplained weight loss or weight gain
• changes to periods such as heavy or irregular bleeding, or vaginal bleeding after menopause
• pain when having sex

Learn more about ovarian cancer symptoms.

6. How to diagnose ovarian cancer

If your doctor suspects you have ovarian cancer, they will usually start with a pelvic examination, then order some of these tests and scans.

To confirm the diagnosis, tissue from the tumour needs to be checked under a microscope. This tissue can be obtained with a biopsy (piece of tissue or fluid sample from the abdomen) or at the time of surgery.

Sometimes ovarian cancer is diagnosed before it causes symptoms. This is usually when abnormalities are found during tests or procedures for another health condition.

Learn more about diagnosing ovarian cancer.

The female reproductive system

For more information, visit our ovarian cancer section.