What should you know about early stage ovarian cancer?

The stage reflects where the cancer is found, while the tumour type and grade describe its behaviour. Assessment may include pelvic imaging, blood tests and examination of tissue removed during surgery. A specialist team uses these findings to determine whether disease is limited to one ovary, involves both ovaries or has reached nearby pelvic areas.

Surgery may include removal of an ovary, called oophorectomy, together with careful inspection and sampling of nearby tissues. Some people need further surgery or ovarian debulking surgery, depending on what staging shows. Chemotherapy may be offered when pathology suggests that medicine could reduce the chance of remaining cancer. Genomic tumour profiling can help identify tumour features relevant to treatment discussions. BRCA genetic testing may also be considered.

Tell your care team urgently about severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, fever, heavy bleeding or inability to pass urine. During treatment, new breathlessness, marked weakness or difficulty drinking also merits prompt advice. Palliative care can support symptoms and wellbeing at any stage, including alongside cancer treatment.

Ask what the tissue findings show, which areas were checked for staging, and whether fertility or hormone considerations affect surgery. Ask why chemotherapy is or is not advised, whether genetic testing could affect relatives, and which symptoms should trigger a call.