Ovarian cancer remains one of the most challenging gynecologic cancers to diagnose early. Although it begins in the ovaries, the disease also includes cancers that start in the fallopian tubes and the peritoneum, the membrane lining the abdominal organs.
According to the American Cancer Society, ovarian cancer continues to be the deadliest gynecologic cancer and the fifth-leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. For 2026, ACS estimates about 21,010 new ovarian cancer cases and 12,450 deaths nationwide.
Risk factors
While the exact causes remain unclear, several factors increase risk. These include a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, older age, obesity, infertility, and never having been pregnant. Hormone replacement therapy and pelvic inflammatory disease also may elevate risk.
Symptoms
Because the ovaries sit deep in the pelvis, symptoms often appear vague or mild. Early recognition is essential, as many signs can be mistaken for gastrointestinal or urinary issues. Key symptoms include:
- Abdominal bloating
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Changes in bowel habits
- Frequent urination
- Feeling full quickly
- Unexplained weight loss
Routine screening for women without symptoms is not recommended because current methods have not been shown to reduce deaths from ovarian cancer. When needed, clinicians may use blood tests, such as CA 125, and pelvic imaging.
Prevention
Women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations may be candidates for risk-reducing surgery to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Studies show this preventive surgery can significantly reduce ovarian cancer risk and may detect early-stage disease in some patients.
Staging and treatment
Ovarian, fallopian tube, and peritoneal cancers share the same staging system, ranging from Stages 1 through 4. Treatment depends on stage, health status, and individual considerations.
Surgery is typically the first step, aiming to remove as much cancer as possible. Chemotherapy is recommended for most patients, except some with Stage 1 cancer, and sometimes may be given before surgery to shrink tumors. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy expand available options and help prevent recurrence.
Clinical trials are also important, offering access to new treatments and reflecting ongoing progress in ovarian cancer care.
Emotional support, counseling, and patient advocacy resources can help individuals and families manage the physical and psychological challenges of diagnosis and treatment.
Fertility considerations
Treatment may affect fertility, making early conversations about reproductive options essential. Fertility preservation methods, such as egg freezing, may offer future family-building possibilities. For women with early-stage disease, fertility-sparing surgical approaches may be possible.
When to call your doctor
Talk with a health care provider if you experience persistent bloating, abdominal discomfort, unexpected weight loss, or other concerning symptoms. If you have a strong family history of ovarian or breast cancer, ask whether genetic counseling or testing is appropriate.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and avoiding smoking, supports overall well-being and may reduce cancer risk.
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References:
- American Cancer Society. “Key Statistics for Ovarian Cancer.” Last revised January 13, 2026.
- Eleje, G. U., A. C. Eke, I. U. Ezebialu, et al. “Risk‑Reducing Bilateral Salpingo‑Oophorectomy in Women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 Mutations.” Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 8 (2018): CD012464.
- Goff, Barbara A., Laura S. Mandel, Charles W. Drescher, et al. “Development of an Ovarian Cancer Symptom Index: Possibilities for Earlier Detection.” Cancer 109, no. 2 (2007): 221-27.
- Jelovac, D., and D. K. Armstrong. “Recent Progress in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Ovarian Cancer.” CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians 61, no. 3 (2011): 183-203.
- Machetti, C., F. De Felice, G. Perniola, et al. “Screening Program in Ovarian Cancer: A Logical Step in Clinical Management?” Current Problems in Cancer 42, no. 2 (2018): 235-40.
- Siegel, Rebecca L., Kimberly D. Miller, Hannah E. Fuchs, and Ahmedin Jemal. “Cancer Statistics, 2022.” CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians 72, no. 1 (2022): 7-33.
