What Causes Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is very hard to detect, which is why it causes more deaths each year than any other female reproductive cancer. The cause is unknown in most cases. Doctors have been able to narrow down some of the risks, however, based upon case studies and past history.

There are several different symptoms that one can be on the lookout for, though they are vague and often disregarded as something else entirely. These symptoms include bloating, excess fluids in the abdominal cavity, abdominal pain, and swelling in the belly. These symptoms often aren’t evident for weeks or months after the cancer has begun to grow in the ovaries.

In many cases, women who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer also complain of frequent urination, constipation or fatigue as well. Most women don’t see a doctor in the case of these kinds of symptoms because people associate them with the common cold and flu, too. The problem is that while these signs go untreated, the cancer cells are multiplying in the ovaries and spread. 

Ovarian cancer is among the top five most common cancers that develop amongst women and often become terminal because the cancer has spread beyond the ovaries once it is finally diagnosed. Unfortunately, there is no specific cause that women can associate the diagnosis with.

Doctors have revealed that risks for developing the cancer include being hereditary, infertile, as well as those who take an estrogen replacement. If a first or second degree relative has had breast or ovarian cancer, that woman is more likely to develop ovarian cancer in her life. Family history should be known so that risks are understood.

In addition, infertile women or those that have never been pregnant are also at a higher risk. Women who have been on birth control pills for several years, however, can significantly decrease their risks for developing the cancer.

If the cancer is caught early enough, it is possible to undergo radiation therapy or chemotherapy treatment to help shrink and kill the cancer cells. The problem, however, is that often the cancer spreads beyond the ovaries. In 60% of women, the cancer is beyond the ovaries when the diagnosis is made. This means that it may now be causing swollen lymph nodes and spreading, causing other aspects of gynecologic cancer.

There are symptoms women ignore that can be potential life savers. Abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding and even high blood pressure can be signs that something is wrong. Rather than chancing it and passing it off as nothing, women should make an appointment with a doctor.

Speak to the doctor about the various symptoms as well as your concerns. They may do some screening tests, look for ovarian cysts or tumors and do a pelvic exam. At that point, if ovarian cancer is evident, the stage and prognosis can be determined to see what the next steps are.

Ovarian cancer doesn’t have any set causes, so paying attention to symptoms is absolutely crucial in the diagnosis before it becomes too late.