Lynch syndrome and ovarian cancer

Lynch syndrome affects genes involved in correcting mistakes in DNA. A person may inherit a changed copy from a parent and pass it to children of any sex. Having Lynch syndrome does not mean that cancer is present, and a family history can be absent or unclear.

For someone with ovaries, the inherited risk includes ovarian cancer. The same condition is associated with bowel and womb cancers. A diagnosis may be considered after genetic testing, tumour testing, or a pattern of related cancers in a family.

Ask for a genetics referral if you have a personal or family pattern of bowel, womb, ovarian, or related cancers. Genetic counselling can explain testing choices, possible results, and implications for relatives.

A care plan may include colonoscopy at an interval chosen for your gene result and family history, attention to new symptoms, and discussion of reproductive or risk-reducing options. If ovarian cancer is diagnosed, treatment is planned from its type, spread, tumour features, and your health.

Arrange medical review for persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal discomfort, feeling full quickly, or a change in bleeding, especially if these symptoms are new or worsening. Seek urgent help for severe pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, heavy bleeding, or difficulty breathing.

Which gene result applies to me, and what does it mean for my relatives? Which screening schedule fits my history? Should I consider a hereditary cancer panel test? What ovarian symptoms should prompt review?