What should you know about ovarian cancer in young women?

Ovarian cancer is not limited to people after menopause. In a younger woman, the tumour type and stage remain central, while fertility, ovarian hormone function, pregnancy plans, education, work, and relationships may shape the care plan. Some ovarian tumours behave differently from others, so age alone cannot determine the diagnosis or treatment.

Symptoms such as persistent bloating, pelvic pain, early fullness, or unusual bleeding can overlap with common gynaecological conditions. They do not prove cancer. A clinician may use examination, pelvic ultrasound, other imaging, and tissue testing to understand the cause.

Tell the team early if you may want a future pregnancy. Before surgery or systemic treatment, ask about fertility preservation, whether any ovarian tissue can be retained safely, and how treatment may affect hormones. A fertility specialist can explain options that depend on your diagnosis and timing.

Ask about BRCA genetic testing and family counselling when appropriate. Tumour profiling can provide different information from inherited testing. Keep a written treatment plan, bring a trusted person to appointments if helpful, and ask for support with school, work, sexual health, and emotional strain.

Arrange medical review for symptoms that persist or keep returning, especially abdominal enlargement, pelvic pressure, loss of appetite, unusual bleeding, or a new bowel or bladder pattern. These symptoms have several possible explanations, so evaluation is needed rather than self-diagnosis.

Seek urgent care for severe pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, repeated vomiting, sudden breathlessness, chest pain, or rapidly worsening weakness. During treatment, follow the team’s instructions for fever or other infection warning signs.

What tumour type and stage are being considered? Can I meet a fertility specialist before treatment? Could surgery preserve any reproductive function? Should I have inherited genetic counselling? What support is available for school, work, sexual health, and emotional wellbeing?