Ovarian cancer

It is a type of cancer that emerges in the ovaries. The female reproductive system is comprised of two ovaries one on each side of the uterus. The ovaries are about the dimensions of an almond. They are responsible for producing eggs known as ova and the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer remains undetected until it spreads within the pelvis and abdomen. Ovarian cancer is harder to treat at this stage. In early-stage of ovarian cancer where the disease is confined to the ovary has comparatively more chances to be treated successfully. Surgery and chemotherapy are generally two ways used separately or in combination to cure ovarian cancer.

Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer include:

• Discomfort in the pelvis area
• Changes in bowel habits, like constipation
• A frequent need to urinate
• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Quickly feeling full when eating
• Weight loss

• Types of ovarian cancer

  The type of cancer is determined by the type of cell from where cancer begins. Ovarian cancer types include:

  • Epithelial tumours
  • Stromal tumours
  • Germ cell tumours

  Diagnosis

  • Pelvic Exam
  • Imaging Test
  • Blood Tests

  Treatment

  Treatment of ovarian cancer usually involves a mixture of surgery and chemotherapy.

  Surgery

  Operations to remove ovarian cancer include:

  • Surgery To Remove One Ovary - It is done at a very early-stage cancer that has not spread beyond one ovary. In this surgery, the affected ovary and its fallopian tube are removed. There are chances that this procedure may preserve your ability to have children.
  • Surgery To Remove Both Ovaries - If cancer is present in both ovaries there are no signs of additional cancer. The surgeon might remove both ovaries and both fallopian tubes.
  • Surgery To Remove Both Ovaries And The Uterus – This surgery is best when cancer becomes more extensive and you don't wish to preserve the ability to have children.
  • Surgery For Advanced Cancer – When your cancer is advanced the doctor may recommend chemotherapy that is followed by surgery to remove as much cancer as possible.

  Chemotherapy

  Chemotherapy is a drug treatment wherein chemicals are used to kill fast-growing cells in the body that including cancer cells.

  Targeted therapy

  Here certain medications are used that target some specific vulnerabilities present within your cancer cells.

  Supportive care

  It is specialized medical care that focuses on providing relief from pain and other symptoms of a serious illness.

  Take Away

  Detecting cancer can be scary but proper treatment can overcome anything.

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