Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month. About 7,400 women are diagnosed with cancer of the ovary (ovarian cancer) each year in the UK.
Whether you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer or support someone with this diagnosis, we are here to support you.
What is ovarian cancer?
Cancers of the ovary, fallopian tube and of the peritoneum are often grouped together because they are so similar. They are treated in the same way.
Ovarian cancer can affect anyone who has ovaries and fallopian tubes. This includes women, transgender (trans) men and people assigned female at birth.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer
Cancer of the ovary causes symptoms like other more common and less serious conditions. This can make it more difficult to diagnose it early. Symptoms can include a swollen tummy and pain in the back or lower tummy.
In the video below, Sadaf Ghaem-Maghami, Consultant Gynaceological Oncologist, provides a general overview of ovarian cancer symptoms.
Diagnosis of ovarian cancer
Your GP will ask about your symptoms and will do an internal vaginal examination to check for any lumps or swelling. They usually arrange the following tests:
- a CA125 blood test to check for raised levels of this protein, which may be higher in ovarian
- ultrasound scans to check the organs in the pelvis and tummy area.
Helpful resources
How we can help
Call 0808 800 00 00 for free, open 7 days a week 8am to 8pm.
Read our information about cancer and its treatments, and what support is available for the impacts of cancer like money worries, emotional help and more.
Connect with others who know what you or your loved ones are going through.
Sbba's story
Sbba was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2022. Since her diagnosis, she has been raising awareness to ensure women and people of colour have access to relevant information about cancer.
Sbba said "If you feel something is wrong then be insistent, ask for tests, ask for a second opinion if you have to, do whatever it takes to get things investigated. If you are going online to search for symptoms and other information, make sure it is a reputable website like the NHS or Macmillan where you know you will find accurate information."