Which specialist treats ovarian cancer?

A gynaecological oncology team focuses on cancers of the reproductive organs and brings together a specialist surgeon, medical oncologist, pathologist, radiologist, genetics professional, nurse and dietitian. They review examination findings, scans, blood tests and tissue results. The team may discuss pelvic ultrasound, surgery, chemotherapy or genomic tumour profiling. BRCA genetic testing can be relevant for some people and may affect family counselling or treatment discussions.

Ask for referral to a gynaecological oncologist or a specialist ovarian cancer service. Bring previous imaging, operation notes, medicines and family history of ovarian, breast, prostate or related cancers. Ask who will coordinate appointments and whether genetic counselling is appropriate. Treatment may involve ovarian debulking surgery, oophorectomy, chemotherapy or PARP inhibitor therapy, depending on the findings and tumour profile.

Seek urgent help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, heavy bleeding, new breathlessness or inability to pass stool or urine. Contact your oncology team promptly for fever during treatment, worsening abdominal swelling, inability to keep fluids down or pain that is not controlled. Palliative care can support comfort and quality of life at any stage alongside cancer treatment.

Ask whether a gynaecological oncologist will lead care, what the scans and tissue results show, and whether surgery or chemotherapy comes first. Discuss BRCA testing, genomic tumour profiling, fertility or menopause concerns, symptom control, and how to reach the team outside appointments.