How to Learn About the Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis Process

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Ovarian cancer, a malignancy of the ovaries, is one of the more difficult cancers to diagnose because of the invasive nature of accessing the ovaries. Because of this, many women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer during advanced stages. Therefore, women who think that they might be at risk for cancer of the ovaries should learn about the diagnosis process.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Computer with Internet access

Learn About Non-Invasive Procedures Used in the Diagnosis Process

Step 1

Be prepared to answer questions about family medical history. History of cancer, specifically ovarian cancer, is one of the leading risk factors for women. Ask family members about their medical histories so that you are prepared with the most accurate information possible.
Step 2

Get a pelvic exam, in which a doctor will feel the ovaries for abnormalities of size and shape. Women over the age of 18 should have an annual pelvic exam and women over the age of 35 should have a rectovaginal exam every year.
Step 3

Learn about the different types of imaging methods available for diagnosing ovarian cancer. Doctors can use X-Rays, MRI's, CT scans and ultrasounds to capture images of the ovaries in order to detect any abnormalities.

Consider the More Invasive Techniques Used to Diagnose Ovarian Cancer

Step 1

Know that a blood test may be taken to assist in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Physicians look for a high presence of CA 125, which is often found on ovarian cancer cells.
Step 2

Be aware of minor surgical procedures like laparoscopies that can assist in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. A laparoscopy allows a surgeon to make a small incision in the abdomen in order to look at the ovaries and possibly remove a tissue sample.
Step 3

Have a biopsy to determine if a tumor is cancerous. If your doctor has detected a tumor on your ovaries, he or she may want to take a sample of the tissue and have it tested for cancer.