Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer among women and causes more deaths than any other type of gynecologic cancer.
Risk factors
- Age
- Family history of breast, ovarian or gastrointestinal cancer
- Infertility
- Delayed childbearing
Symptoms
Early detection is vital in the successful treatment of ovarian cancer. The challenge is that symptoms, especially in the early stages, can be rather vague and don't feel acute or intense. Women need to be sensitive to the following symptoms and contact their physicians if they persist:
- Bloating
- Pelvic or abdominal pain or pressure
- Urinary frequency
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
Diagnostic tests
Currently there is no single reliable blood test to detect ovarian cancer. (The Pap test is a screening for cervical cancer, but not ovarian cancer.) Physicians utilize a number of state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging procedures to help rule out or diagnose ovarian cancer. Learn about diagnostic tests available at Inova
Treatment options
Optimal treatment for ovarian cancer varies depending on the stage of disease, the woman's age and her overall health condition. There are three main treatment options for ovarian cancer. A woman and her physician will discuss the options to determine the best course of treatment for her.
Read more about ovarian cancer from our online health library 
Learn more about Inova's gynecologic cancer services 
