How to Find Information on Ovarian Cancer Screening

Cancer screening refers to the process where someone who does not have any symptoms but thinks she might be in a high-risk group undergoes testing to see if cancer is present. Unfortunately, there are no screening tests for ovarian cancer, the malignancy that affects a woman's ovaries, but there are steps you can take to help alert you of cancer early on.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Know the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

1. Recognize pain in the abdomen and pelvis as potential symptoms of ovarian cancer. Bloating and swelling can also be signs of ovarian cancer. However, all of these symptoms can also be caused by digestive problems or fibroids. Be aware if your pain is ongoing.
2. Notice changes in bowel habits, including constipation and diarrhea. In addition, a change in bladder habits can be considered a symptom of ovarian cancer.
3. Look for changes in eating habits, such as loss of appetite or a sudden weight loss or gain.

Discover the Ovarian Cancer Screening Options

4. Have a pelvic examination. A pelvic exam should be performed regularly, even after menopause or a hysterectomy, to look for signs of ovarian cancer.
5. Consider an ultrasound. While an ultrasound cannot detect cancer, it can provide the doctor with an ability to see the ovaries, enabling him or her to determine if there are any tumors or growths.
6. Be aware of other procedures, such as a laparoscopy. In a laparoscopy, doctors make a small incision in the abdomen and insert a lighted tube into it in order to take small tissue samples for testing.
7. Find a doctor who will perform an alternative test, such as an MRI or a CA 125 blood test. Although many tests produce inconclusive results, there are other options available for women who want to find out if they may have early stages of ovarian cancer.
8. Get more information at the American Cancer Society Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your doctor for all of the options available when considering a test for ovarian cancer so that you can make the most informed decision.
• All patients have the right to be fully informed regarding testing and treatment options. Patients also have the final say on which treatments to pursue or when to stop treatment.
• If your screening reveals that you do, in fact, have ovarian cancer, be prepared to deal with the emotional and psychological turmoil. Speak with a therapist if you become very depressed or anxious.