Ovarian cancer: risk factors and how to reduce your risk

Ovarian cancer is a significant health concern for women around the world. Some of the things that affect your ovarian cancer risk, such as your age and your genes, are beyond your control. Others, however, are not. Understanding the risk factors, and taking practical steps where you can, puts you in a stronger position to protect your health.

What raises your ovarian cancer risk?

• Age: your risk increases as you get older, and most cases are diagnosed in women over 50.
• Family history: a family history of ovarian, breast or bowel cancer may increase your risk.
• Inherited gene changes: mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 are linked to a much higher risk.
• Reproductive history: not having children, or having a late menopause, may slightly increase your risk.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): long-term use of HRT after the menopause has been linked to a higher risk.
• Lifestyle: smoking, excess weight and a diet high in processed foods may also add to your risk.

Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop ovarian cancer. Equally, many women who develop it have no obvious risk factors at all, which is why knowing the symptoms matters too.

If your risk is higher than average, your doctor may suggest seeing a specialist or a genetics team. Together, you can agree a plan that might include closer monitoring, genetic testing or, for some women with a known gene change, risk-reducing surgery once their family is complete. There is no single right answer, and you can take time to decide.

How to reduce your ovarian cancer risk

Know your family history. Share your family's medical history with your doctor so they can assess your genetic risk. Note which relatives were affected, by which cancer, and at what age.

Consider genetic testing. If you have a strong family history, genetic counselling and testing for BRCA gene changes may be helpful. Our post on how genetics play a role in gynaecological cancers explains what testing involves.

Keep to a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and whole grains, combined with regular exercise, helps you keep to a healthy weight and may lower your risk. Our post on how diet and lifestyle affect gynaecological cancer risk has practical ideas.

Ask about the contraceptive pill. Some studies suggest that taking the pill for several years may lower ovarian cancer risk. It is not right for everyone, so discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.

Stop smoking. Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do, both for your ovarian cancer risk and for your overall health.

Have regular check-ups. Routine gynaecological check-ups help to pick up ovarian cancer and other conditions early, and give you the chance to discuss any concerns.

Know the symptoms

Reducing your risk is important, but so is acting quickly if something changes. See your doctor if you have persistent bloating, tummy or pelvic pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, or needing to pass urine more often. Our post on the early signs of ovarian cancer explains what to look for.

Cancer Research UK explains the risks and causes of ovarian cancer, and NICE sets out how ovarian cancer should be recognised. Our ovarian cancer page has more detail.

Support at Gynae Solution

At Gynae Solution, we put women's health first, with expert advice and comprehensive care. If you are worried about your ovarian cancer risk, or would like support, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Early detection and prevention are key to a healthier, fuller life.