Ovarian Cancer

Most cases of cancer of the ovary (ovarian cancer) develop in women over the age of 50. The cause is not clear. Some ovarian cancers can be cured. In general, the more advanced the cancer (the more it has grown and spread), the less chance that it can be cured. However, treatment can often slow the progress of the cancer. Some women with a strong family history of ovarian cancer may benefit from regular screening.

What are the ovaries?

Women have two ovaries, one on either side of the womb (uterus) in the pelvic area (lower abdomen). Ovaries are small and round, each about the size of a walnut. The ovaries make eggs. In fertile women, each month an egg (ovum) is released from one of the ovaries. This is called ovulation. The egg passes down the Fallopian tube into the uterus where it may be fertilised by a sperm.

The ovaries also make hormones including the main female hormones - oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones pass into the bloodstream and have various effects on other parts of the body, including regulating the menstrual cycle and periods.