Ovaries are magnificent glands which are part of the female reproductive system. Ovarian cancer is cancer that forms in tissues of the ovary.
Ovarian Cancer can influence on reproductive health of women
There are two main types of ovarian cancer which is either ovarian epithelial carcinomas (cancer that begins in the cells on the surface of the ovary) or malignant germ cell tumors (cancer that begins in egg cells).
Ovarian cancer causes are still unknown. However, it is often seen that genes defects, history of breast cancer or family history can increase risk of ovarian cancer for women.
Women who take estrogen replacement only (not with progesterone) for 5 years or more seem to have a higher risk of ovarian cancer. Birth control pills or fertility drugs, however, are not the factor increasing this risk.
Ovarian cancer which is similar to some other cancers does not show clear symptoms. If one is at risk of suffering from ovarian cancer, she may notice the following signs:
- Abnormal menstrual cycles
- Digestive disorders such as constipation, increased gas, indigestion, nausea and vomiting
- Sense of pelvic heaviness
- Swollen abdomen or belly
- Back pain
- Vaginal bleeding
- Vague lower abdominal discomfort
- Weight gain or loss
Any women are able to at risk of ovarian cancer, especially for those who are still young and have not given the first birth yet.
Recommendation is provided that women should have frequent tests to check whether her ovary is healthy or not?
See the doctor and take test for ovarian cancer, they are:
- A physical examination is to check a swollen abdomen and fluid in ther abdominal cavity.
- A pelvic examination is to check an ovarian or abdominal mass.
- A CA-125 blood test is applied for women who has symptoms of ovarian cancer or diagnosed with it.
- Other tests are: complete blood count and blood chemistry; pregnancy test, CT or MRI of the pelvis or abdomen.
The sooner you take test for ovarian cancer, the better your reproductive health is.