What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer?

Inherited changes in genes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 can increase the chance of ovarian cancer. Lynch syndrome is another inherited condition associated with risk. A close relative with ovarian, breast, bowel, or related cancer may indicate a family pattern worth discussing, although family history alone does not establish an inherited syndrome.

Risk also tends to rise with age. Factors involving ovulation over a person's lifetime, some hormone exposures, and having endometriosis may be relevant. These associations are complex, and many people with ovarian cancer have no recognised risk factor.

Write down cancers diagnosed in close relatives, the age at diagnosis if known, and whether anyone has had genetic testing. Share this history with a doctor or genetic counsellor. They can decide whether inherited-risk assessment is appropriate and explain what a result could mean for relatives.

Persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, feeling full quickly, or changes in urination or bowel habits deserve medical review, especially when they are new or do not settle. These symptoms have many possible causes and do not by themselves identify ovarian cancer. See [Ovarian Cancer](/conditions/ovarian-cancer/) for related information.

Book an appointment for ongoing or recurrent abdominal swelling, pelvic pain, unusual vaginal bleeding, appetite change, or unexplained weight change. Seek urgent care for sudden severe abdominal pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or repeated vomiting with inability to keep fluids down.

Does my family history suggest genetic counselling? Would BRCA or Lynch syndrome testing be useful? Which symptoms should I track? What evaluation is appropriate for persistent bloating or pelvic pain?