Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovary.Ovarian cancer is the third leading cause of cancer in women, accounting for 3% of all cancers.There are ways to help prevent ovarian cancer.
Step 1: With your reproductive choices, reduce your risk.
Scientists don't know why, but you can reduce your risk for ovarian cancer by having children and controlling your fertility.Ovarian cancer can be prevented by having at least one baby.Studies show that having more babies reduces your risk.You can reduce your risk by taking birth control pills for at least five years.Ovarian cancer can be prevented with a history of breast feeding or hysterectomy.
Step 2: Breastfeed your children.
If you have children, breastfeeding is one way to reduce your risk of ovarian cancer.If you want to reduce your risk of ovarian cancer, try to breastfeeding for at least a year.Breastfeeding reduces your child's risk for breast cancer.
Step 3: It's a good idea to consider permanent sterilization.
It is most likely to be effective, even though it is a drastic option.If you have stopped having children and are at a high risk for ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor about having your reproductive organs removed.There are a few permanent sterilization options that have been shown to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.Having your tubes tied is one of your options.Your ovaries will be removed.A woman is getting a hysterectomy.
Step 4: A healthy weight is maintained.
Studies show that if you maintain a healthy weight, you can reduce your risk of developing this type of cancer.Being overweight can make you less likely to survive ovarian cancer.If you are overweight, this guide can help you lose weight safely.
Step 5: Ovarian cancer is unpredictable.
Ovarian cancer can be diagnosed even if there are no risk factors.Ovarian cancer is not a high risk for most women.
Step 6: The risk increases with age.
Middle-aged or older women are more likely to have ovarian cancer.The average age of women who develop ovarian cancer is 60 years old.
Step 7: There are any family histories of cancer.
If someone in your family has had ovarian cancer, you are more likely to get it.A close female blood relative could include your aunt, mother, or grandmother.Cancer may be taboo in some cultures and generations.If you think your family might not have told you about a family history of ovarian cancer, be sure to ask for information from family members who might know.Lynch Syndrome increases the risk of ovarian cancer along with breast, colon, endometrium and other cancer syndromes.The Breast-Ovarian Cancer Syndrome is a cause of ovarian cancer that is under investigation by doctors and scientists.
Step 8: If there are other medical problems or medications that could put you at risk, consider them.
Ovarian cancer can be caused by certain medical conditions.If you have had breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer.If you have the disease.If you have taken estrogen alone for ten or more years, this can include Hormone Replacement Therapy.You can be associated with Lynch Syndrome if you have a specific genetic abnormality.
Step 9: Understand how your background can affect risk.
There are other factors that may increase a woman's risk of ovarian cancer.Being from a North American, Northern European, or Ashkenazi Jewish background is included.I have never had children of my own.Being overweight during early adulthood.
Step 10: You should watch for symptoms that aren't typical.
If you are past menopause, pay attention to any abnormal bleeding from the vagina.If you experience Pelvic or abdominal pain every day for 2 weeks or longer, see your doctor.
Step 11: Talk to your doctor.
There is no easy or reliable test for ovarian cancer.If you have unusual symptoms or are at an increased risk for ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor.Know what's natural for you.Understand how your body works.Advise your doctor of any changes in your body, especially if they involve Pelvic pain or an unusual vaginal discharge.
Step 12: Ovarian cancer screening can be done by your doctor.
If you are at risk, and especially if you have developed symptoms that are unusual for your body, ask your gynecologist whether you should be screened for ovarian cancer.Ovarian cancer is more likely to be treated if it is detected early.There are a number of tests your doctor may recommend.Women who are overweight can be difficult to screen for.It's hard to feel for ovarian enlargement on a physical examination and it can be difficult with increased body mass.If you are overweight and considering an evaluation, you may want to have aCT of the pelvis.