What should you know about stage 3B ovarian cancer?

In stage 3B ovarian cancer, cancer is present beyond the ovaries and fallopian tubes, with visible deposits in the abdominal lining or nearby abdominal organs that remain limited in size. The stage is based on examination, scans and tissue findings. It does not describe one identical experience for everyone.

The pathology report identifies the tumour type and may include molecular information. BRCA testing and genomic tumour profiling can help the team discuss inherited risk, treatment choices and whether relatives might need advice.

A gynaecological oncology team may discuss chemotherapy before or after ovarian cancer debulking surgery. The operation aims to remove as much visible cancer as safely possible; in some situations, oophorectomy is part of surgery. Pelvic ultrasound may help assess pelvic findings, while other scans provide a wider view. Ask how treatment will be sequenced and how nutrition, bowel symptoms and fertility concerns will be supported.

Palliative care can be added at any stage to relieve pain, nausea, tiredness or emotional strain. It works alongside cancer treatment and is not limited to end-of-life care.

Call your care team promptly for persistent vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, increasing abdominal swelling, severe pain, fever or reduced urine. Emergency help is needed for fainting, severe breathlessness, sudden confusion, heavy bleeding or pain that becomes rapidly worse.

Where has the cancer spread within my abdomen? Is surgery recommended before or after chemotherapy? What did pathology and BRCA testing show? Which symptoms should trigger a same-day call?