June 13, 2025, 1:49 am | Read time: 7 minutes
Ovarian cancer is one of the most serious types of cancer affecting women. Each year, hundreds of thousands of women worldwide are diagnosed with it, including over 7,000 in Germany alone. FITBOOK author Julia Kuntz spoke with a gynecologist about the disease and explains its causes, risk factors, and treatment options. Additionally, she discusses the signs that should prompt you to seek medical advice.
The insidious nature of ovarian cancer is that it often shows no symptoms in its early stages, while early detection is absolutely crucial for the chances of recovery. We learned from Dr. Anne-Cathrin Stahr, a specialist in gynecology in Munich, about the signs that should prompt an examination for the possibility of ovarian cancer. She also informed us about the progression and treatment depending on the stage of the disease, as well as risk factors and prevention options.
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Overview
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer (ovarian carcinoma) is a malignant tumor disease that forms in the ovaries. The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system and produce eggs as well as hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Cancer occurs when cells in the ovaries grow uncontrollably and form tumors. These tumors can be benign or malignant, with the latter often going undetected until they reach an advanced stage. Women over 50 are particularly affected, but younger women can also develop the disease, especially if there is a genetic predisposition.
Types
There are different types of ovarian cancer, distinguished by their origin in the tissue. Epithelial ovarian cancer is the most common form, accounting for about 70 percent of cases. It originates in the outer cell layers of the ovaries. A rarer form is germ cell/stromal tumors (ten percent), which affect the cells that form the eggs or develop in the tissue that produces hormones.
Symptoms
The symptoms of ovarian cancer are often nonspecific and should therefore be clarified by a specialist as soon as they appear. See a doctor as early as possible if you notice one or more of the following signs:
- Unintentional weight loss or loss of appetite
- Pain during intercourse
- Swollen abdomen and severe bloating
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Feeling of pressure in the pelvic area
- Digestive problems like nausea or constipation
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Changes in bowel habits
Early Detection
“Early diagnosis is crucial for ovarian cancer, but unfortunately, there is currently no reliable method for early detection. Regular gynecological examinations, especially for women at increased risk, are therefore essential,” emphasized Dr. Stahr in a conversation with FITBOOK.
Also interesting: The most important preventive examinations from age 50
Risk Factors
Age is one of the risk factors, as women over 50 are most commonly affected by the disease. The crucial risk factor is the number of ovulations in a lifetime, influenced by the age at first and last menstruation, the number of pregnancies, and the use of birth control pills. Genetic predisposition and lifestyle can also have an impact, as smoking, obesity, and an unhealthy diet can increase the risk of the disease.
Also interesting: Endometriosis significantly increases the risk of a rare type of cancer
Spread
“Ovarian cancer can metastasize or spread,” explained Dr. Stahr. “This means that cancer cells can spread from their original site in the ovary to other parts of the body. The cancer often spreads to the lining of the abdominal cavity, known as peritoneal carcinomatosis, which can lead to a buildup of fluid in the abdomen (ascites). Additionally, cancer cells can migrate to nearby or distant lymph nodes. In some cases, the cancer also metastasizes to the liver or lungs, especially in advanced stages. The intestines can also be affected if the cancer spreads further. The exact spread depends on the stage of the cancer.”
Progression
The course of the disease can vary greatly and depends on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis and various individual factors. Initially, the cancer often shows no noticeable symptoms, making it difficult to detect in its early stages. In advanced stages, the aforementioned nonspecific symptoms may occur. If the cancer has metastasized, other organs may also be affected, causing additional symptoms.
Treatment
Early Stage
As long as the cancer is confined to the ovary in the early stage, there is a higher chance of successful treatment. The standard therapy in such cases is usually surgery, where the ovaries, uterus, appendix, and possibly surrounding tissue are removed. This is often followed by chemotherapy to combat any remaining cancer cells.
Advanced Stage
In advanced stages, when the cancer has already spread, treatment is more complex. A combination of surgery and chemotherapy is often used to control the cancer. In some cases, targeted therapies or immunotherapies may also be employed.
Is Ovarian Cancer Treatable?
Unfortunately, in 80 percent of cases, the disease is diagnosed at an advanced stage. The five-year survival rate is 43 percent. If the cancer is detected at a very early stage, the survival rate is significantly higher. However, thanks to modern therapies, there is hope even for advanced ovarian cancer.
Can a Woman Have Children After Treatment?
In young women whose ovarian cancer is detected early, part of the ovaries can be preserved. Alternatively, procedures such as cryopreservation (freezing) of eggs before treatment can be considered. Your specialist can provide individual advice on this.
Can the Cancer Return?
Unfortunately, there is a possibility of recurrence, even if the cancer was initially successfully treated. It is therefore all the more important to attend regular follow-up examinations to detect a possible recurrence early. The course of the disease strongly depends on the timeliness of the diagnosis and the individual response to treatment.
Prevention
Healthy Lifestyle
Although there is no guaranteed method to prevent ovarian cancer, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Ensure regular exercise and avoid nicotine.
Hormonal Contraception for Prevention?
“Studies suggest that taking hormonal contraceptives, like the pill, over a longer period can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. This is because the pill suppresses ovulation, which decreases the likelihood of cancer cells developing in the ovary. The protective effect persists even years after stopping the contraceptives,” said Dr. Stahr. “However, it is important to note that hormonal contraceptives can also be associated with other health risks, so it is advisable to discuss their use with a doctor to weigh the individual pros and cons. Since the origin of ovarian cancer often lies in the cells of the fallopian tubes, it may be considered to remove the tubes after completing family planning if there is an increased risk.”
Is There a Vaccine?
Currently, there is no way to be specifically vaccinated against ovarian cancer. However, there are vaccines related to certain risk factors for ovarian cancer. The most well-known is the HPV vaccine, the vaccination against human papillomaviruses, which significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer. Since this can also spread to the ovaries, the vaccine can also have a positive effect on the prevention of ovarian cancer.
Also interesting: How to protect yourself from HPV infection during sex
Is a Genetic Test Useful?
A genetic test can be helpful if there is a possible genetic predisposition for ovarian and breast cancer in the family. Some genes, particularly BRCA1 and BRCA2, play an important role in the development of ovarian and breast cancer. Women with a mutation in these genes have a significantly higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. If you are unsure whether there is a family history of cancer cases, or if you suspect a family predisposition, a genetic test can certainly provide insight into whether you carry such a mutation. However, it is important to know that only about ten to 15 percent of ovarian cancer cases are due to hereditary genetic mutations.
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Conclusion
Ovarian cancer is a serious condition, but through education, prevention, early diagnosis, and a healthy lifestyle, you can reduce your risk. Trust your body, see a doctor early if you have symptoms, and take advantage of preventive measures.