Ovarian cancer prevention and risk reduction

Some ovarian cancers occur without a known inherited cause, so no prevention plan removes every possibility. Risk can be shaped by family history, inherited gene changes, reproductive factors and previous medical history. A close relative with ovarian, breast, fallopian tube or related cancer may be a reason to discuss genetic counselling.

Prevention is different from early diagnosis. A pelvic ultrasound may investigate symptoms or a finding, but it is not a guarantee that cancer will be detected early. Your clinician will consider your age, health, fertility plans and family history before suggesting a strategy. Do not stop prescribed medicines or begin supplements for prevention without advice.

Write down cancers in close relatives and the ages at diagnosis if known. Ask whether BRCA genetic testing or another inherited-risk assessment is suitable, and what a result could mean for relatives. For people with substantial inherited risk, risk-reducing surgery such as oophorectomy may be discussed; this is a major decision involving fertility, hormones, recovery and long-term health. Review the benefits and trade-offs with a gynaecologic oncology team.

Risk reduction does not make new symptoms irrelevant. Arrange an appointment for persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, feeling full quickly, unusual bleeding, or new bowel or bladder changes. Seek urgent help for severe sudden pain, fainting, repeated vomiting, heavy bleeding or difficulty breathing.

Does my family history suggest inherited risk? Should I see a genetic counsellor? What would testing tell me? Would risk-reducing surgery be relevant, and how could it affect fertility or hormones? What symptoms should I report?