What is ovarian cancer?
The ovaries are the part of the feminine reproductive system that produce eggs each month throughout a woman’s reproductive years. Ovaries are a pair of small almond-shaped organs. They are located on either side of the womb or uterus, and produce eggs. This female internal reproductive organ cancer, that is, ovarian cancer occurs once cells within the ovary grow and divide uncontrollably.

Ovarian cancer can begin in the ovary’s different cells, which are:

• Germ cells – the cells that grow and finally turn into eggs
• Stromal cells – the cells that make up the substance of the ovary
• Epithelial cells – the cells that make the outer layer of the ovary

How common is ovarian cancer?
This cancer majorly affects women who have been through menopause, typically after the age of 50, but sometimes younger women are also affected by it. Ovarian cancer is the eighth commonest cancer in women. It’s the fifth leading explanation for cancer-related deaths in women throughout the world, and it is the tenth most common cancer among the American female population.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
The initial symptoms are abnormalities of the epithelial duct, frequent bloating, frequent and urgent urination, back pain, heartburn or indigestion, pain during sexual intercourse, pain in the lower abdomen, and these symptoms are similar to those of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), IBS ( Irritable Bowel Syndrome), or a temporary bladder issue that makes it hard to diagnose it early.

The signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer might include:

• General abdominal discomfort and/or pain (gas, dyspepsia, pressure, bloating, cramps)
• Nausea, diarrhea, constipation
• Loss of appetite
• The feeling of fullness even after a light meal
• Weight gain or loss without any specific reason
• Abnormal trauma in the epithelial duct might occur as a late symptom

These symptoms are also caused by ovarian cancer or by alternative less serious conditions. It’s vital to consult with a doctor concerning any of these symptoms.

What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer?
The exact causes of ovarian cancer don’t seem to be known yet. However, studies show that the subsequent risk factors might increase the possibility of developing this disease:

• Family history:  Blood relatives (mother, daughter, sister), particularly if 2 or additional have suffered from the disease. A case history of breast cancer or carcinoma is also related to the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
• Age:  Most instances of ovarian cancer have been witnessed in women who are 50 years or older, with the highest risk to those who are older than 60.
• Personal history: Women who have had breast cancer or carcinoma also face a larger risk.
• Obesity: Ladies who are obese or overweight have a higher chance of death from ovarian cancer.
• Fertility medicine: Medicine that causes ladies to discharge might slightly increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer.
• Talc: Some studies recommend that girls who have used talc for several years are also at risk of developing this type of cancer.