What is ovarian cancer?
(See diagram below)
The ovaries are the reproductive organs in which the ova or eggs are produced.
The ovaries are comprised of different cells including surface epithelium cells, germ cells, and the sex cord-stromal cells.

Ovarian cancer is cancer that starts in the cells that constitute the ovaries and the ovarian tumours are named according to the type of cells where the tumour started.

There are many different types of tumours that can develop in the ovaries – some are benign (non-cancerous) and can be removed, or malignant (cancerous) the most serious of these are the cancerous epithelium tumours.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is sometimes referred to as the “silent” killer as the symptoms only appear when the disease has progressed to an advanced stage.
It is difficult to detect especially in the early stages due to the fact that these two small organs lie deep within the abdominal cavity.

Potential symptoms of ovarian cancer are:

  • Unusual feeling of fullness or discomfort in the pelvic area.
  • Unusual bloating or flatulence that is not relieved with antacids.
  • Pelvic and/or abdominal pain or discomfort.
  • Pain during intercourse.
  • Abnormal or post-menstrual bleeding.
  • Unexplained bowel or bladder habits.
Please Note:
These symptoms do not indicate ovarian cancer but if you do experience them you should discuss them with your doctor.
How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?
Before symptoms appear, the doctor will most often detect ovarian cancer during a regular gynaecological examination. If abnormalities are found, further tests will be applied. These could include ultrasound, x-rays and laparoscopy.
Possible risk factors:
  • Personal or family history of ovarian cancer, breast, endometrial or colon cancer.
  • Increasing age.
  • Unexplained infertility and no history of the use of birth control pills.
  • High doses of oestrogen without progesterone for long periods.
  • Tubal litigation reduces the risk by 70%.
  • Having two or three children reduces the risk somewhat.
Treatment of ovarian cancer:
Treatment depends on the type of ovarian cancer and how far it has spread and can include surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy depending on the doctor’s decision.
Where to get help and advice:
The Cancer Association of S.A. (CANSA) National Toll-Free Help-line no. 0800-226622
The Hospice Society of South Africa - consult your telephone directory for the telephone number of the local hospice.
DIAGRAM OF FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS
For information on other Women's Health issues, click on the links below:
Breast Cancer
Cancer of the cervix
Menopause
Osteoporosis
Cancer of the Vulva