Clinical trials play an important role in improving cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. For some patients, taking part may offer access to new therapies that are not yet widely available. Your care team can help determine whether a clinical trial may be an option and explain what participation involves.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
The ovaries—located on each side of the uterus in the pelvis—are small organs that play an important role in reproduction. They release eggs (ova) and produce hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
Like any part of the body, the ovaries are made up of different types of cells:
- Germ cells, which form eggs
- Stromal cells, which produce hormones and support ovarian tissue
- Epithelial cells, which cover the outer surface
Sometimes, these cells begin to grow out of control and form a mass called a tumor. Tumors may be benign (noncancerous) and stay in one place, or malignant (cancerous), with the ability to grow into nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
Ovarian cancer occurs when malignant cells develop in the ovary and continue to grow and spread.
If you’re concerned about symptoms or a possible diagnosis, LifeBridge Health offers expert evaluation and compassionate care to help guide your next steps.
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
Symptoms of ovarian cancer are more likely to appear after the disease has spread, but it is possible for them to occur earlier.
Symptoms may include:
- An upset stomach, trouble eating or feeling full quickly
- Bloating
- Menstrual changes
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Back pain
- Feeling the need to urinate urgently or quite frequently
- Pain during sex
- Constipation
- Fatigue
If you experience new, persistent or worsening symptoms, it’s important to talk with a healthcare provider.
How Ovarian Cancer is Diagnosed
If ovarian cancer is suspected, your care team may use a combination of imaging tests, procedures and lab tests to confirm a diagnosis and guide treatment.
Your team may recommend:
Imaging
- Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries. It can help locate a mass and determine whether it is a solid tumor or a fluid-filled cyst.
- CT scan (computed tomography): Creates detailed images from multiple angles to show tumor size and whether cancer has spread. CT scans may also be used to guide a biopsy.
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): Uses magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of the pelvic organs.
- Chest X-ray: May be used to check if cancer has spread to the lungs.
While imaging tests can show whether a mass is present, they cannot confirm whether it is cancer.
Diagnostic Procedures
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure in which a thin, lighted tube is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to view the ovaries and surrounding organs.
- Biopsy: A sample of tissue or fluid is removed and examined under a microscope. This is the only way to confirm a diagnosis of cancer.
Blood Tests
Blood tests cannot diagnose ovarian cancer on their own, but they can measure proteins that may be elevated and help guide care decisions.
Ovarian Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment for ovarian cancer is guided by a team of specialists, including gynecologic oncologists (surgeons), medical oncologists and radiation oncologists, who work together to create a personalized plan.
Depending on the type and stage of cancer, as well as your overall health and goals for care, this plan may include:
Surgery
Surgery is the main treatment for most ovarian cancers. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible. Depending on your situation, this may include removing one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes and uterus, and nearby tissue if cancer has spread.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medication to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be used before or after surgery, or as the main treatment in more advanced cases.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses drugs that focus on specific changes in cancer cells that help them grow. This approach helps limit damage to healthy tissue.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy may be used for certain types of ovarian cancer to block hormones that help cancer grow.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It is used less often for ovarian cancer but may be recommended in specific situations.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses medication to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Clinical Trials
Supportive Services
When you receive cancer care at LifeBridge Health, you have access to supportive services like counseling, integrative therapies and support groups. These resources are designed to help patients care for their physical and emotional well‑being throughout treatment and beyond.