Ovaries
The ovaries are an integral part of the female reproductive system, which also includes the vagina, uterus (including the cervix), and fallopian tubes. Each woman has a pair of ovaries, positioned on either side of the body, responsible for producing an egg approximately every month during her fertile years. Additionally, the ovaries secrete female sex hormones—primarily estrogen and progesterone—throughout a woman’s reproductive life. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle. As women age and enter menopause, the production of these hormones decreases significantly, eventually ceasing altogether.
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer refers to various types of cancer that originate from the cells of the ovaries. The most common type arises from the epithelial cells that cover the ovaries. Some of these are classified as borderline ovarian tumors (OLMPT), which do not have the ability to invade other parts of the body. There are also rarer forms of ovarian cancer that develop from within the ovary itself, such as germ cell tumors and stromal tumors.
This form of cancer is among the most lethal diseases affecting women, ranking fifth in overall cancer statistics for female patients and first among cancers affecting women post-menopause.
Currently, the exact causes of ovarian cancer remain unclear; however, certain risk factors may elevate the likelihood of developing the disease. It has been observed that ovarian cancer can strike women at a young age, and early diagnosis is often challenging. Typically, it is detected only once it has spread to the pelvic area, at which point it poses a significant threat to the patient’s life. Therefore, women experiencing any symptoms should promptly consult a healthcare provider for comprehensive examinations to rule out ovarian cancer and prevent its progression.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Initially, ovarian cancer may not present noticeable symptoms, as its small size allows it to expand within the abdominal cavity without exerting pressure on surrounding organs. However, women with ovarian cancer may experience the following symptoms:
- Abdominal bloating or distension for no apparent reason.
- Difficulty eating and feeling full quickly after consuming small meals.
- A sensation of weight in the pelvic region.
- Pain in the lower back or pelvic area.
- Irregular menstrual cycles.
- Constipation.
- Excessive gas.
- Nausea and a tendency to vomit.
- Loss of appetite accompanied by significant, unintentional weight loss.
- Substantial weight gain if the tumor is large.
- Hormonal changes leading to increased body hair that is coarse and dark.
- Frequent and urgent need to urinate.
- Vaginal bleeding and irregularities in the menstrual cycle.
- General fatigue and rapid loss of energy.
- Indigestion and constipation.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Shortness of breath accompanied by persistent fatigue.
Causes and Risk Factors
While there is no definitive cause of ovarian cancer, several risk factors are associated with its development, including:
- Long-term use of estrogen hormone replacement therapy, especially at high doses.
- A longer reproductive window, indicated by a first menstrual period before age 12 or menopause after age 52.
- Never having been pregnant.
- Infertility treatments and issues with fertility.
- Smoking.
- Use of intrauterine contraceptive devices.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Age over 50.
- Genetic predisposition, particularly from familial history of cancer.
- Previous diagnosis of breast cancer.
- Use of talcum powder or scented products in the genital area.
Prevention
To mitigate the risk of developing ovarian cancer, consider the following preventive measures:
- Childbearing can contribute to a lower risk of ovarian cancer.
- Maintaining a healthy weight, as obesity increases the risk.
- Breastfeeding infants can reduce the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer compared to formula feeding.
- Regular screening and check-ups, especially for women at increased age or after menopause.
- Using oral contraceptives may lower the risk of ovarian cancer, although some studies suggest links to breast cancer.
- Surgical procedures for infertility or removal of the ovaries can significantly reduce cancer risk.
- Daily aspirin use after age 50 may contribute to a lower risk.
Ovarian cancer poses a serious threat to women’s health, making it essential to adhere to preventive guidelines. Women who experience any symptoms associated with ovarian cancer should seek medical attention immediately, aiming to control the condition before it escalates and spreads to other areas of the body.
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms Video
As this disease becomes increasingly prevalent among women, it is vital to understand the symptoms of ovarian cancer: