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Each year more than 280 Queensland women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Receiving this diagnosis – whether it’s for yourself or someone you love – can feel overwhelming. Cancer Council Queensland has the support and resources to help guide you through your diagnosis.
The terms “women,” “woman,” and “female” used on this page reflect the language used in the research studies and data sources referenced. Unfortunately, these terms do not encompass all individuals with these reproductive organs. At Cancer Council Queensland, we remain committed to providing information that is both accurate and accessible to everyone. We acknowledge and stand in solidarity with the LGBTIQA+ community.
Our team is here to listen and support you.
Ovarian cancer begins when cells in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the peritoneum (the lining of the abdomen) become abnormal, grow uncontrollably, and form a tumour. Approximately 285 Queensland women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, and while it can occur at any age, it is more common in women over 50.
There are several types of ovarian cancer, but the three most common are:
It is not known exactly what causes ovarian cancer, but several factors can increase a woman’s risk.
While these risks are important to consider, it’s worth noting that most women with these factors do not develop ovarian cancer.
Some factors may also help to reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer, including:
There are few symptoms of ovarian cancer in its early stages, which is why it is typically diagnosed when the disease is more advanced and has spread to other organs.
However, some women may experience subtle signs of ovarian cancer that can be easily mistaken for other conditions.
These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have ovarian cancer – they are often linked to other health conditions. However, if they are new for you, severe, or persist for more than a few weeks, it’s important to see your doctor.
If you are experiencing possible symptoms of ovarian cancer, your doctor may recommend a series of tests to investigate further. These tests can identify abnormalities such as cysts or signs of ovarian tumour, but a definitive diagnosis of ovarian cancer can only be confirmed through a biopsy, where cells are examined under a microscope. This is often done during surgery, which means the diagnosis is confirmed and the cancer is treated at the same time.
Waiting for test results can be stressful. Talking to someone close to you, your healthcare team, or Cancer Council Queensland 13 11 20 can help.
Treatment for ovarian cancer varies depending on the type, stage, and individual factors such as your overall health, plans to have children, and whether you carry a genetic mutation like BRCA. While your doctor will recommend a tailored treatment plan for you, here is how ovarian cancer is commonly treated:
Your care team may include gynaecological oncologists, medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists, cancer nurses, and other specialists to support you.
It’s natural to want to understand what to expect from your experience with ovarian cancer. Your doctor can offer a prognosis based on your test results, the type, stage and grade of cancer, genetic factors, your overall health, and how well you respond to treatment. However, it’s important to remember everyone’s experience with cancer is different and no one can predict the exact course of the disease.
It can be confronting to think about your prognosis. Chatting with your doctor, family and friends can help. If you’re feeling unsure or need emotional support, organisations like Cancer Council Queensland are here to provide information, guidance and a listening ear when you need it.
There is no at-home test for ovarian cancer. However, you can be aware of the signs of ovarian cancer so you can seek medical advice if you notice any. Symptoms of ovarian cancer can include abdominal bloating, feeling full quickly, frequent urination, pelvic pain, bowel changes, menstrual irregularities, fatigue, indigestion, pain during sex, and unexplained weight changes. It is important to understand many symptoms can be linked to other less worrying conditions, and do not always mean you have cancer.
If your doctor suspects ovarian cancer, they’ll likely perform a pelvic examination and recommend tests or scans. The only way to confirm ovarian cancer is through a biopsy, usually done during surgery, where tissue or fluid samples are taken and examined by a pathologist.
A diagnosis can only be made after these samples are carefully analysed.
There is currently no test to detect ovarian cancer early. Screening methods like the Pap smear test or HPV test do not identify ovarian cancer. The best approach is to be familiar with your body, recognise any changes, and stay alert to the symptoms of ovarian cancer, which may include a bloated abdomen, pain in the abdomen, pelvis, or back, loss of appetite or feeling full quickly, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight changes, indigestion, and pain during sex.
These symptoms are often linked to other conditions, and most women with them won’t have ovarian cancer. However, if these symptoms are unusual for you or persist, it’s important to see your doctor for a check-up.
