Ovarian cancer impacts the ovaries, the part of the female reproductive system that produces eggs and hormones. Due to its subtle symptoms, ovarian cancer is often diagnosed in its later stages. This type of cancer has fast-growing cells that can spread and damage healthy tissue. While most ovarian cancers begin in the ovaries, recent research indicates many ovarian cancers begin in the cells at the ends of the fallopian tubes rather than in the ovaries themselves.
If you’ve been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, it’s important to seek experienced care right away. Penn Medicine is a leader in ovarian cancer research and treatment, providing advanced options like immunotherapy and clinical trials. As an academic medical center, we offer individualized treatment plans guided by cancer specialists who use on-site labs to analyze each patient’s unique cancer profile and recommend the best approaches to care.
Types of ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancers primarily originate from a certain type of cell on the ovary’s surface known as epithelial cells, but they can also develop from hormone-producing cells called stromal cells or egg-producing germ cells. The ovaries consist of three main types of cells, each capable of forming different types of tumors:
- Epithelial tumors originate from the cells covering the ovary’s outer surface and are the most common type of ovarian cancer tumor.
- Germ cell tumors develop from the egg-producing cells in the ovary.
- Stromal tumors arise from the structural cells that hold the ovary together and produce estrogen and progesterone.
While some tumors are benign (non-cancerous) and remain confined to the ovary, malignant (cancerous) tumors can spread to other parts of the body and pose a serious risk to your health. Borderline tumors, which are neither invasive nor benign, require careful monitoring for potential growth or spread.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer is often called a silent disease because its early symptoms tend to go unnoticed. It’s important to recognize potential signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer and consult your doctor if you experience them. Some common ovarian cancer symptoms include:
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Persistent, unusual fatigue
- Swelling, bloating, or a feeling of fullness or pressure in the pelvis or abdomen
- Pain or discomfort in the pelvic or abdominal area
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Persistent gastrointestinal issues, such as gas, nausea, or indigestion
If you notice any swelling, pressure, or pain in the abdominal or pelvic area lasting more than a few weeks, it’s important to seek medical care immediately. While most ovarian cysts are benign, complex cysts can develop into cancer and should be monitored. Additional symptoms you may experience due to a tumor in the ovaries include:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding after intercourse
- A bloated or swollen stomach
- Feeling full quickly when eating
- New constipation or bowel changes
- Discomfort or pain in the pelvic area, abdomen, or lower back
What causes ovarian cancer?
The exact cause of most ovarian cancers is still unknown, but researchers are investigating several theories about potential causes.
- Pregnancy and the use of birth control pills, both of which reduce ovulation frequency, are associated with a lower risk of ovarian cancer, suggesting a possible link between ovulation and cancer risk.
- Procedures like tubal ligation and hysterectomy, which block the fallopian tubes or remove the uterus, also reduce ovarian cancer risk, possibly preventing cancer-causing substances from reaching the ovaries.
- Genetic mutations may also play a role in the development of ovarian cancer.
Anyone with ovaries can develop an ovarian cancer tumor, even after the removal of the ovaries, as the disease can also affect the fallopian tubes or the peritoneum (inner lining of the abdomen). It’s important to talk to your doctor about the risk factors for ovarian cancer and any methods you can use to prevent developing the disease.
Diagnosing ovarian cancer
If you are at high risk for ovarian cancer or are showing signs of ovarian cancer, you should be seen by a doctor who specializes in gynecologic cancer care. You may need to undergo a series of tests to confirm your diagnosis. Getting a diagnosis by a trained professional is the only way to confirm whether a tumor in the ovaries is cancerous.
Get an accurate ovarian cancer diagnosis at Penn Medicine
Treating ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making it crucial to select a treatment center with experience and advanced care options. At Penn Medicine, our approach to treating ovarian cancer involves a team of specialists from various disciplines. This means you’ll receive comprehensive care, advanced treatments, and ongoing monitoring and management for the best possible health outcome.
