Gynaecological cancers
Ovarian Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the ovaries. While it can affect women of any age, it is more common after the menopause. Ovarian cancer can sometimes be difficult to identify in its early stages because the symptoms can be vague and may be similar to those caused by other, much less serious conditions.
At Gynae Solution, we understand that experiencing persistent or unusual symptoms can be worrying. Specialist assessment can help identify the cause of your symptoms and, where necessary, ensure that appropriate investigations and treatment are arranged.
What Is Ovarian Cancer?
The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system and are responsible for producing eggs and hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone.
Ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells in or around the ovary begin to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way. There are several different types of ovarian cancer, and the behaviour and treatment of each type can vary.
Ovarian cancer can sometimes remain within the ovary, while in other cases it can spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. The stage and type of cancer are important factors when determining the most appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer does not always cause obvious symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do occur, they can sometimes be mistaken for digestive problems, hormonal changes or other common conditions.
Symptoms can include:
- Persistent bloating or a swollen abdomen
- Pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort
- Feeling full quickly when eating or having a reduced appetite
- Needing to urinate more frequently or urgently
- Indigestion, nausea or changes in digestion
- Changes in bowel habits, including constipation or diarrhoea
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Persistent back pain
- Unexplained tiredness
- Unexplained weight loss
Having these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have ovarian cancer. Many other conditions can cause similar symptoms. However, if symptoms are new, persistent, becoming more frequent or unusual for you, it is important to speak to your GP.
Causes and Risk Factors
In many cases, it is not possible to identify one specific cause of ovarian cancer. However, certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
These can include:
- Increasing age, particularly after the menopause
- A family history of ovarian or certain other cancers
- Inherited genetic changes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations
- Having previously had breast cancer
- Endometriosis
- Certain reproductive or hormonal factors
Having one or more risk factors does not mean that you will develop ovarian cancer. Equally, ovarian cancer can occur in women who have no known risk factors.
If you have a significant family history of ovarian or breast cancer, it may be appropriate to discuss your individual risk with your GP or a specialist.
How Is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?
If ovarian cancer is suspected, your doctor will begin by discussing your symptoms and medical history. You may then be offered investigations to look more closely at your ovaries and surrounding tissues.
Depending on your individual circumstances, investigations may include:
Ultrasound
An ultrasound scan can provide images of the ovaries and pelvis and may identify cysts, masses or other abnormalities.
Blood Tests
Blood tests may be used to assess your general health and, where appropriate, measure tumour markers such as CA-125. A raised CA-125 level does not necessarily mean that ovarian cancer is present, as it can also be raised by other conditions.
CT Scan
A CT scan provides detailed images of the abdomen and pelvis and may be used to investigate an abnormality or assess whether cancer may have spread.
Biopsy
A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue so that it can be examined for cancer cells. The most appropriate method of obtaining a biopsy will depend on your individual circumstances.
Laparoscopy
A laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows a surgeon to examine the abdomen and pelvis using a small camera. It may also allow tissue samples to be taken where appropriate.
Not everyone will require all of these tests. Your specialist will explain which investigations are appropriate and why they are being recommended.
Treatment Options
Treatment for ovarian cancer is tailored to the individual. The recommended treatment will depend on the type and stage of the cancer, whether it has spread, your general health and your personal circumstances.
Treatment may include:
Surgery
Surgery may be recommended to remove the cancer and, where appropriate, affected tissues. The extent of surgery will depend on the location and spread of the disease.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medicines to destroy cancer cells or prevent them from growing. It may be recommended before or after surgery, depending on the individual circumstances.
Targeted therapies
Targeted treatments work in specific ways against cancer cells. These may include treatments such as PARP inhibitors for selected patients.
Intraperitoneal chemotherapy and HIPEC
For selected patients, chemotherapy may be delivered directly into the abdominal cavity. HIPEC involves delivering heated chemotherapy during surgery and may be considered in certain cases of advanced abdominal or ovarian cancer.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to target cancer cells. It may have a role in treating certain areas of recurrent or persistent disease.
Clinical trials
Where appropriate, patients may be offered the opportunity to take part in clinical trials investigating new or developing approaches to treatment.
Your specialist will explain the available options, including why a particular treatment may be recommended for you.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from ovarian cancer treatment varies considerably between patients and will depend on the type and extent of treatment you receive.
Following surgery or other treatment, you will receive advice about your recovery and any follow-up appointments that may be required. Your recovery may involve gradually returning to normal activities, managing discomfort or fatigue and attending further appointments to monitor your progress.
Follow-up care is an important part of your treatment. It provides an opportunity to assess your recovery, review any test results, monitor your health and discuss any ongoing symptoms or concerns.
We understand that recovery is not only physical. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have an emotional impact, and you should feel able to discuss any concerns you may have with your healthcare team.
Risks and Benefits of Treatment
Every treatment has potential benefits and risks, and these will vary depending on your diagnosis and the treatment being considered.
The potential benefit of treatment may include removing or controlling the cancer, relieving symptoms, improving quality of life and, where possible, achieving long-term disease control.
The risks will depend on the treatment. Surgery, for example, carries general surgical risks such as bleeding, infection, blood clots and reactions to anaesthesia, as well as risks specific to the particular procedure. Chemotherapy and other cancer treatments can also cause side effects.
Before recommending treatment, Mr Jafaru Abu will discuss the potential benefits, risks and alternatives with you. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and understand what the proposed treatment involves before making an informed decision about your care.
Specialist Ovarian Cancer Care
We understand that being investigated for ovarian cancer, or receiving a diagnosis, can be an understandably worrying time.
Our aim is to provide clear information, thorough specialist assessment and personalised care throughout your journey. You will be given the opportunity to discuss your symptoms, understand your diagnosis and consider your treatment options with your specialist.
If you are experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms, speak to your GP or contact Gynae Solution to arrange a consultation with Mr Jafaru Abu.
Patient leaflets
Written for patients, relatives and hospital personnel, to read before your operation and to keep afterwards.
Extensive Ovarian Cancer Surgery
For patients advised to have ultra-radical surgery for advanced ovarian cancer.
De-bulking Surgery
Why surgeons aim to remove all visible disease, and how the extent of surgery affects survival.
iCRS and HIPEC
Surgery after chemotherapy, sometimes combined with heated chemotherapy inside the abdomen.
Common questions
How soon can I be seen?
Daily appointments are available at The Park Hospital. Call the secretary on 0115 966 2049, or send an enquiry below and we will reply within 24 hours on business days.
Do I need a GP referral?
Referrals from GPs are welcome, and you can also enquire directly. If you are using private medical insurance, check with your insurer whether a referral is required for your policy. See GP referrals and fees and insurance.
What does a consultation cost?
A new consultation is £250 and a follow-up consultation is £150. The cost of any tests, procedures or surgery is quoted individually after your consultation. See fees and insurance.
Enquiries
Send us a message
Enquiries from patients and referring clinicians are both welcome. We endeavour to answer all enquiries within 24 hours on business days. If your case is urgent, please say so in your message or call the secretary directly.