U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESNational Institutes of Health

What You Need To Know AboutTM

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ANDHUMAN SERVICESNational Institutes of HealthNational Cancer Institute

Contents

About This Booklet 1

The Ovaries 2

Understanding Cancer 3

Risk Factors 5

Symptoms 6

Diagnosis 7

Staging 9

Treatment 11

Supportive Care 20

Nutrition and Physical Activity 21

Follow-up Care 22

Complementary Medicine 23

Sources of Support 24

The Promise of Cancer Research 26

Dictionary 28

National Cancer Institute Information Resources 38

National Cancer Institute Publications 39

About This Booklet

This National Cancer Institute (NCI) booklet isabout ovarian epithelial cancer. It is the most commontype of ovarian cancer. It begins in the tissue thatcovers the ovaries.

You will read about possible causes, symptoms,diagnosis, and treatment. You will also find lists ofquestions to ask your doctor. It may help to take thisbooklet with you to your next appointment.

Important terms appear in italics. The Dictionary atthe back of this booklet explains these terms.Definitions of more than 4,000 terms are also on theNCI Web site at http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary.Most words in the Dictionary have a “sounds-like”spelling to show how to pronounce them.

This booklet is not about ovarian germ cell tumorsor other types of ovarian cancer. To find out about thesetypes of ovarian cancer, please visit our Web site athttp://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/ovarian.Or, contact our Cancer Information Service. We cananswer your questions about cancer. We can sendyou NCI booklets, fact sheets, and other materials.You can call 1–800–4–CANCER (1–800–422–6237)or instant message us through the LiveHelp service athttp://www.cancer.gov/help.

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The Ovaries

The ovaries are part of a woman’s reproductivesystem. They are in the pelvis. Each ovary is about thesize of an almond.

The ovaries make the female hormones—estrogenand progesterone. They also release eggs. An eggtravels from an ovary through a fallopian tube to thewomb (uterus).

When a woman goes through her “change of life”(menopause), her ovaries stop releasing eggs and makefar lower levels of hormones.

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This picture is of the ovaries and nearby organs.

Uterus

Vagina

Fallopian tubes

Lymph nodes

Ovaries

Understanding Cancer

Cancer begins in cells, the building blocks that makeup tissues. Tissues make up the organs of the body.

Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cellsas the body needs them. When cells grow old, they die,and new cells take their place.

Sometimes, this orderly process goes wrong. Newcells form when the body does not need them, and oldcells do not die when they should. These extra cellscan form a mass of tissue called a growth or tumor.

Tumors can be benign or malignant:

• Benign tumors are not cancer:

— Benign tumors are rarely life-threatening.

— Generally, benign tumors can be removed. Theyusually do not grow back.

— Benign tumors do not invade the tissues aroundthem.

— Cells from benign tumors do not spread to otherparts of the body.

• Malignant tumors are cancer:

— Malignant tumors are generally more serious thanbenign tumors. They may be life-threatening.

— Malignant tumors often can be removed. Butsometimes they grow back.

— Malignant tumors can invade and damage nearbytissues and organs.

— Cells from malignant tumors can spread to otherparts of the body. Cancer cells spread bybreaking away from the original (primary) tumorand entering the lymphatic system orbloodstream. The cells invade other organs andform new tumors that damage these organs. Thespread of cancer is called metastasis.

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Benign and Malignant CystsAn ovarian cyst may be found on the surface of an

ovary or inside it. A cyst contains fluid. Sometimes itcontains solid tissue too. Most ovarian cysts are benign(not cancer).

Most ovarian cysts go away with time. Sometimes,a doctor will find a cyst that does not go away or thatgets larger. The doctor may order tests to make surethat the cyst is not cancer.

Ovarian CancerOvarian cancer can invade, shed, or spread to other

organs:

• Invade: A malignant ovarian tumor can grow andinvade organs next to the ovaries, such as thefallopian tubes and uterus.

• Shed: Cancer cells can shed (break off) from themain ovarian tumor. Shedding into the abdomenmay lead to new tumors forming on the surface ofnearby organs and tissues. The doctor may call theseseeds or implants.

• Spread: Cancer cells can spread through thelymphatic system to lymph nodes in the pelvis,abdomen, and chest. Cancer cells may also spreadthrough the bloodstream to organs such as the liverand lungs.

When cancer spreads from its original place toanother part of the body, the new tumor has the samekind of abnormal cells and the same name as theoriginal tumor. For example, if ovarian cancer spreadsto the liver, the cancer cells in the liver are actuallyovarian cancer cells. The disease is metastatic ovariancancer, not liver cancer. For that reason, it is treated asovarian cancer, not liver cancer. Doctors call the newtumor “distant” or metastatic disease.

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Risk Factors

Doctors cannot always explain why one womandevelops ovarian cancer and another does not.However, we do know that women with certain riskfactors may be more likely than others to developovarian cancer. A risk factor is something that mayincrease the chance of developing a disease.

Studies have found the following risk factors forovarian cancer:

• Family history of cancer: Women who have amother, daughter, or sister with ovarian cancer havean increased risk of the disease. Also, women with afamily history of cancer of the breast, uterus, colon,or rectum may also have an increased risk ofovarian cancer.

If several women in a family have ovarian or breastcancer, especially at a young age, this is considereda strong family history. If you have a strong familyhistory of ovarian or breast cancer, you may wish totalk to a genetic counselor. The counselor maysuggest genetic testing for you and the women inyour family. Genetic tests can sometimes show thepresence of specific gene changes that increase therisk of ovarian cancer.

• Personal history of cancer: Women who have hadcancer of the breast, uterus, colon, or rectum have ahigher risk of ovarian cancer.

• Age over 55: Most women are over age 55 whendiagnosed with ovarian cancer.

• Never pregnant: Older women who have neverbeen pregnant have an increased risk of ovariancancer.

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• Menopausal hormone therapy: Some studies havesuggested that women who take estrogen by itself(estrogen without progesterone) for 10 or moreyears may have an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Scientists have also studied whether taking certainfertility drugs, using talcum powder, or being obese arerisk factors. It is not clear whether these are riskfactors, but if they are, they are not strong risk factors.

Having a risk factor does not mean that a womanwill get ovarian cancer. Most women who have riskfactors do not get ovarian cancer. On the other hand,women who do get the disease often have no knownrisk factors, except for growing older. Women whothink they may be at risk of ovarian cancer should talkwith their doctor.

Symptoms

Early ovarian cancer may not cause obvioussymptoms. But, as the cancer grows, symptoms mayinclude:

• Pressure or pain in the abdomen, pelvis, back, orlegs

• A swollen or bloated abdomen

• Nausea, indigestion, gas, constipation, or diarrhea

• Feeling very tired all the time

Less common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath

• Feeling the need to urinate often

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (heavy periods, orbleeding after menopause)

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Most often these symptoms are not due to cancer,but only a doctor can tell for sure. Any woman withthese symptoms should tell her doctor.

Diagnosis

If you have a symptom that suggests ovarian cancer,your doctor must find out whether it is due to cancer orto some other cause. Your doctor may ask about yourpersonal and family medical history.

You may have one or more of the following tests.Your doctor can explain more about each test:

• Physical exam: Your doctor checks general signs ofhealth. Your doctor may press on your abdomen tocheck for tumors or an abnormal buildup of fluid(ascites). A sample of fluid can be taken to look forovarian cancer cells.

• Pelvic exam: Your doctor feels the ovaries andnearby organs for lumps or other changes in theirshape or size. A Pap test is part of a normal pelvicexam, but it is not used to collect ovarian cells. ThePap test detects cervical cancer. The Pap test is notused to diagnose ovarian cancer.

• Blood tests: Your doctor may order blood tests. Thelab may check the level of several substances,including CA-125. CA-125 is a substance found onthe surface of ovarian cancer cells and on somenormal tissues. A high CA-125 level could be a signof cancer or other conditions. The CA-125 test is notused alone to diagnose ovarian cancer. This test isapproved by the Food and Drug Administration formonitoring a woman’s response to ovarian cancertreatment and for detecting its return after treatment.

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• Ultrasound: The ultrasound device uses soundwaves that people cannot hear. The device aimssound waves at organs inside the pelvis. The wavesbounce off the organs. A computer creates a picturefrom the echoes. The picture may show an ovariantumor. For a better view of the ovaries, the devicemay be inserted into the vagina (transvaginalultrasound).

• Biopsy: A biopsy is the removal of tissue or fluid tolook for cancer cells. Based on the results of theblood tests and ultrasound, your doctor may suggestsurgery (a laparotomy) to remove tissue and fluidfrom the pelvis and abdomen. Surgery is usuallyneeded to diagnose ovarian cancer. To learn moreabout surgery, see page 15 in the “Treatment”section.

Although most women have a laparotomy fordiagnosis, some women have a procedure known aslaparoscopy. The doctor inserts a thin, lighted tube(a laparoscope) through a small incision in theabdomen. Laparoscopy may be used to remove asmall, benign cyst or an early ovarian cancer. It mayalso be used to learn whether cancer has spread.

A pathologist uses a microscope to look for cancercells in the tissue or fluid. If ovarian cancer cells arefound, the pathologist describes the grade of thecells. Grades 1, 2, and 3 describe how abnormal thecancer cells look. Grade 1 cancer cells are not aslikely as to grow and spread as Grade 3 cells.

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Staging

To plan the best treatment, your doctor needs toknow the grade of the tumor (see page 8) and theextent (stage) of the disease. The stage is based onwhether the tumor has invaded nearby tissues, whetherthe cancer has spread, and if so, to what parts of thebody.

Usually, surgery is needed before staging can becomplete. The surgeon takes many samples of tissuefrom the pelvis and abdomen to look for cancer.

Your doctor may order tests to find out whether thecancer has spread:

• CT scan: Doctors often use CT scans to makepictures of organs and tissues in the pelvis orabdomen. An x-ray machine linked to a computertakes several pictures. You may receive contrastmaterial by mouth and by injection into your arm orhand. The contrast material helps the organs ortissues show up more clearly. Abdominal fluid or atumor may show up on the CT scan.

• Chest x-ray: X-rays of the chest can show tumorsor fluid.

• Barium enema x-ray: Your doctor may order aseries of x-rays of the lower intestine. You are givenan enema with a barium solution. The bariumoutlines the intestine on the x-rays. Areas blockedby cancer may show up on the x-rays.

• Colonoscopy: Your doctor inserts a long, lightedtube into the rectum and colon. This exam can helptell if cancer has spread to the colon or rectum.

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These are the stages of ovarian cancer:

• Stage I: Cancer cells are found in one or bothovaries. Cancer cells may be found on the surface ofthe ovaries or in fluid collected from the abdomen.

• Stage II: Cancer cells have spread from one or bothovaries to other tissues in the pelvis. Cancer cellsare found on the fallopian tubes, the uterus, or othertissues in the pelvis. Cancer cells may be found influid collected from the abdomen.

• Stage III: Cancer cells have spread to tissuesoutside the pelvis or to the regional lymph nodes.Cancer cells may be found on the outside of theliver.

• Stage IV: Cancer cells have spread to tissuesoutside the abdomen and pelvis. Cancer cells maybe found inside the liver, in the lungs, or in otherorgans.

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Treatment

Many women with ovarian cancer want to take anactive part in making decisions about their medicalcare. It is natural to want to learn all you can aboutyour disease and treatment choices. Knowing moreabout ovarian cancer helps many women cope.

Shock and stress after the diagnosis can make ithard to think of everything you want to ask yourdoctor. It often helps to make a list of questions beforean appointment. To help remember what your doctorsays, you may take notes or ask whether you may use atape recorder. You may also want to have a familymember or friend with you when you talk to yourdoctor—to take part in the discussion, to take notes, orjust to listen.

You do not need to ask all your questions at once.You will have other chances to ask your doctor ornurse to explain things that are not clear and to ask formore details.

Your doctor may refer you to a gynecologiconcologist, a surgeon who specializes in treatingovarian cancer. Or you may ask for a referral. Othertypes of doctors who help treat women with ovariancancer include gynecologists, medical oncologists, andradiation oncologists. You may have a team of doctorsand nurses.

Getting a Second OpinionBefore starting treatment, you might want a second

opinion about your diagnosis and treatment plan. Manyinsurance companies cover a second opinion if you oryour doctor requests it.

It may take some time and effort to gather medicalrecords and arrange to see another doctor. In most

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cases, a brief delay in starting treatment will not maketreatment less effective. To make sure, you shoulddiscuss this delay with your doctor. Sometimes womenwith ovarian cancer need treatment right away.

There are a number of ways to find a doctor for asecond opinion:

• Your doctor may refer you to one or morespecialists. At cancer centers, several specialistsoften work together as a team.

• NCI’s Cancer Information Service, at1–800–4–CANCER, can tell you about nearbytreatment centers. Information Specialists alsocan assist you online through LiveHelp athttp://www.cancer.gov/help.

• A local or state medical society, a nearby hospital, ora medical school can usually provide the names ofspecialists.

• The American Board of Medical Specialties(ABMS) has a list of doctors who have had trainingand passed exams in their specialty. You can findthis list in the Official ABMS Directory of BoardCertified Medical Specialists. The Directory is inmost public libraries. Also, ABMS offers thisinformation at http://www.abms.org. (Click on“Who’s Certified.”)

• NCI provides a helpful fact sheet called “How ToFind a Doctor or Treatment Facility If You HaveCancer.” Page 39 tells how to get NCI fact sheets.

Treatment MethodsYour doctor can describe your treatment choices and

the expected results. Most women have surgery andchemotherapy. Rarely, radiation therapy is used.

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Cancer treatment can affect cancer cells in thepelvis, in the abdomen, or throughout the body:

• Local therapy: Surgery and radiation therapy arelocal therapies. They remove or destroy ovariancancer in the pelvis. When ovarian cancer hasspread to other parts of the body, local therapy maybe used to control the disease in those specific areas.

• Intraperitoneal chemotherapy: Chemotherapy canbe given directly into the abdomen and pelvisthrough a thin tube. The drugs destroy or controlcancer in the abdomen and pelvis.

• Systemic chemotherapy: When chemotherapy istaken by mouth or injected into a vein, the drugsenter the bloodstream and destroy or control cancerthroughout the body.

You may want to know how treatment may changeyour normal activities. You and your doctor can worktogether to develop a treatment plan that meets yourmedical and personal needs.

Because cancer treatments often damage healthycells and tissues, side effects are common. Side effectsdepend mainly on the type and extent of the treatment.Side effects may not be the same for each woman, andthey may change from one treatment session to thenext. Before treatment starts, your health care team willexplain possible side effects and suggest ways to helpyou manage them.

You may want to talk to your doctor about takingpart in a clinical trial, a research study of newtreatment methods. Clinical trials are an importantoption for women with all stages of ovarian cancer.The section on “The Promise of Cancer Research” onpage 26 has more information about clinical trials.

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You may want to ask your doctor thesequestions before your treatment begins:

• What is the stage of my disease? Has thecancer spread from the ovaries? If so, towhere?

• What are my treatment choices? Do yourecommend intraperitoneal chemotherapy forme? Why?

• Would a clinical trial be appropriate for me?

• Will I need more than one kind of treatment?

• What are the expected benefits of each kind oftreatment?

• What are the risks and possible side effects ofeach treatment? What can we do to control sideeffects? Will they go away after treatmentends?

• What can I do to prepare for treatment?

• Will I need to stay in the hospital? If so, forhow long?

• What is the treatment likely to cost? Will myinsurance cover the cost?

• How will treatment affect my normalactivities?

• Will treatment cause me to go through an earlymenopause?

• Will I be able to get pregnant and havechildren after treatment?

• How often should I have checkups aftertreatment?

Surgery

The surgeon makes a long cut in the wall of theabdomen. This type of surgery is called a laparotomy. If ovarian cancer is found, the surgeon removes:

• both ovaries and fallopian tubes (salpingo-oophorectomy)

• the uterus (hysterectomy)

• the omentum (the thin, fatty pad of tissue that coversthe intestines)

• nearby lymph nodes

• samples of tissue from the pelvis and abdomen

If the cancer has spread, the surgeon removes asmuch cancer as possible. This is called “debulking”surgery.

If you have early Stage I ovarian cancer, the extentof surgery may depend on whether you want to getpregnant and have children. Some women with veryearly ovarian cancer may decide with their doctor tohave only one ovary, one fallopian tube, and theomentum removed.

You may be uncomfortable for the first few daysafter surgery. Medicine can help control your pain.Before surgery, you should discuss the plan for painrelief with your doctor or nurse. After surgery, yourdoctor can adjust the plan if you need more pain relief.

The time it takes to heal after surgery is different foreach woman. You will spend several days in thehospital. It may be several weeks before you return tonormal activities.

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If you haven’t gone through menopause yet, surgerymay cause hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and nightsweats. These symptoms are caused by the sudden lossof female hormones. Talk with your doctor or nurseabout your symptoms so that you can develop atreatment plan together. There are drugs and lifestylechanges that can help, and most symptoms go away orlessen with time.

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You may want to ask your doctor thesequestions about surgery:

• What kind of surgery do you recommend forme? Will lymph nodes and other tissues beremoved? Why?

• How soon will I know the results from thepathology report? Who will explain them tome?

• How will I feel after surgery?

• If I have pain, how will it be controlled?

• How long will I be in the hospital?

• Will I have any long-term effects because ofthis surgery?

• Will the surgery affect my sex life?

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses anticancer drugs to kill cancercells. Most women have chemotherapy for ovariancancer after surgery. Some women have chemotherapybefore surgery.

Usually, more than one drug is given. Drugs forovarian cancer can be given in different ways:

• By vein (IV): The drugs can be given through a thintube inserted into a vein.

• By vein and directly into the abdomen: Somewomen get IV chemotherapy along withintraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy. For IPchemotherapy, the drugs are given through a thintube inserted into the abdomen.

• By mouth: Some drugs for ovarian cancer can begiven by mouth.

Chemotherapy is given in cycles. Each treatmentperiod is followed by a rest period. The length of therest period and the number of cycles depend on theanticancer drugs used.

You may have your treatment in a clinic, at thedoctor’s office, or at home. Some women may need tostay in the hospital during treatment.

The side effects of chemotherapy depend mainly onwhich drugs are given and how much. The drugs canharm normal cells that divide rapidly:

• Blood cells: These cells fight infection, help bloodto clot, and carry oxygen to all parts of your body.When drugs affect your blood cells, you are morelikely to get infections, bruise or bleed easily, andfeel very weak and tired. Your health care teamchecks you for low levels of blood cells. If bloodtests show low levels, your health care team cansuggest medicines that can help your body makenew blood cells.

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• Cells in hair roots: Some drugs can cause hair loss.Your hair will grow back, but it may be somewhatdifferent in color and texture.

• Cells that line the digestive tract: Some drugs cancause poor appetite, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea,or mouth and lip sores. Ask your health care teamabout medicines that help with these problems.

Some drugs used to treat ovarian cancer can causehearing loss, kidney damage, joint pain, and tingling ornumbness in the hands or feet. Most of these sideeffects usually go away after treatment ends.

You may find it helpful to read NCI’s bookletChemotherapy and You: A Guide to Self-Help DuringCancer Treatment. Page 39 tells how to get NCIbooklets.

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You may want to ask your doctor thesequestions about chemotherapy:

• When will treatment start? When will it end?How often will I have treatment?

• Which drug or drugs will I have?

• How do the drugs work?

• Do you recommend both IV and IP(intraperitoneal) chemotherapy for me? Why?

• What are the expected benefits of thetreatment?

• What are the risks of the treatment? What sideeffects might I have?

• Can I prevent or treat any of these side effects?How?

• How much will it cost? Will my healthinsurance pay for all of the treatment?

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy (also called radiotherapy) useshigh-energy rays to kill cancer cells. A large machinedirects radiation at the body.

Radiation therapy is rarely used in the initialtreatment of ovarian cancer, but it may be used torelieve pain and other problems caused by the disease.The treatment is given at a hospital or clinic. Eachtreatment takes only a few minutes.

Side effects depend mainly on the amount ofradiation given and the part of your body that istreated. Radiation therapy to your abdomen and pelvismay cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or bloody stools.Also, your skin in the treated area may become red,dry, and tender. Although the side effects can bedistressing, your doctor can usually treat or controlthem. Also, they gradually go away after treatmentends.

NCI provides a booklet called Radiation Therapyand You: A Guide to Self-Help During CancerTreatment. Page 39 tells how to get NCI booklets.

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Supportive Care

Ovarian cancer and its treatment can lead to otherhealth problems. You may receive supportive care toprevent or control these problems and to improve yourcomfort and quality of life.

Your health care team can help you with thefollowing problems:

• Pain: Your doctor or a specialist in pain control cansuggest ways to relieve or reduce pain. Moreinformation about pain control can be found in theNCI booklets Pain Control: A Guide for People withCancer and Their Families, Get Relief from CancerPain, and Understanding Cancer Pain. Page 39 tellshow to get NCI booklets.

• Swollen abdomen (from abnormal fluid buildupcalled ascites): The swelling can be uncomfortable.Your health care team can remove the fluidwhenever it builds up.

• Blocked intestine: Cancer can block the intestine.Your doctor may be able to open the blockage withsurgery.

• Swollen legs (from lymphedema): Swollen legs canbe uncomfortable and hard to bend. You may findexercises, massages, or compression bandageshelpful. Physical therapists trained to managelymphedema can also help.

• Shortness of breath: Advanced cancer can causefluid to collect around the lungs. The fluid can makeit hard to breathe. Your health care team can removethe fluid whenever it builds up.

• Sadness: It is normal to feel sad after a diagnosis ofa serious illness. Some people find it helpful to talkabout their feelings. See the “Sources of Support”section on page 24 for more information.

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You can get information about supportive careon NCI’s Web site at http://www.cancer.gov/cancerinfo/coping and from NCI’s Cancer InformationService at 1–800–4–CANCER or LiveHelp(http://www.cancer.gov/help).

Nutrition and Physical Activity

It’s important for women with ovarian cancer to takecare of themselves. Taking care of yourself includeseating well and staying as active as you can.

You need the right amount of calories to maintain agood weight. You also need enough protein to keep upyour strength. Eating well may help you feel better andhave more energy.

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Sometimes, especially during or soon aftertreatment, you may not feel like eating. You may beuncomfortable or tired. You may find that foods do nottaste as good as they used to. In addition, the sideeffects of treatment (such as poor appetite, nausea,vomiting, or mouth sores) can make it hard to eat well.Your doctor, a registered dietitian, or another healthcare provider can suggest ways to deal with theseproblems. Also, the NCI booklet Eating Hints forCancer Patients has many useful ideas and recipes.Page 39 tells how to get NCI booklets.

Many women find they feel better when they stayactive. Walking, yoga, swimming, and other activitiescan keep you strong and increase your energy.Whatever physical activity you choose, be sure to talkto your doctor before you start. Also, if your activitycauses you pain or other problems, be sure to let yourdoctor or nurse know about it.

Follow-up Care

You will need regular checkups after treatment forovarian cancer. Even when there are no longer anysigns of cancer, the disease sometimes returns becauseundetected cancer cells remained somewhere in yourbody after treatment.

Checkups help ensure that any changes in yourhealth are noted and treated if needed. Checkups mayinclude a pelvic exam, a CA-125 test, other blood tests,and imaging exams.

If you have any health problems between checkups,you should contact your doctor.

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You may wish to get the NCI booklet FacingForward Series: Life After Cancer Treatment. Itanswers questions about follow-up care and otherconcerns. It also suggests ways to talk with your doctorabout making a plan of action for recovery and futurehealth. Page 39 tells how to get NCI booklets.

Complementary Medicine

It’s natural to want to help yourself feel better. Somepeople with cancer say that complementary medicinehelps them feel better. An approach is calledcomplementary medicine when it is used along withstandard cancer treatment. Acupuncture, massagetherapy, herbal products, vitamins or special diets, andmeditation are examples of such approaches.

Talk with your doctor if you are thinking abouttrying anything new. Things that seem safe, such ascertain herbal teas, may change the way your cancertreatment works. These changes could be harmful. Andcertain complementary approaches could be harmfuleven if used alone.

You may find it helpful to read the NCI bookletThinking About Complementary & AlternativeMedicine: A guide for people with cancer. Page 39tells how to get NCI booklets.

You also may request materials from the NationalCenter for Complementary and Alternative Medicine,which is part of the National Institutes of Health. Youcan reach their clearinghouse at 1–888–644–6226(voice) and 1–866–464–3615 (TTY). Also, you canvisit their Web site at http://www.nccam.nih.gov.

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Sources of Support

Learning you have ovarian cancer can change yourlife and the lives of those close to you. These changescan be hard to handle. It is normal for you, yourfamily, and your friends to have many different andsometimes confusing feelings.

You may worry about caring for your family,keeping your job, or continuing daily activities.Concerns about treatments and managing side effects,hospital stays, and medical bills are also common.Doctors, nurses, and other members of your health careteam can answer questions about treatment, working,

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You may want to ask your doctor thesequestions before you decide to usecomplementary medicine:

• What benefits can I expect from this approach?

• What are its risks?

• Do the expected benefits outweigh the risks?

• What side effects should I watch for?

• Will the approach change the way my cancertreatment works? Could this be harmful?

• Is this approach under study in a clinical trial?

• How much will it cost? Will my healthinsurance pay for this approach?

• Can you refer me to a complementarymedicine practitioner?

and other activities. Meeting with a social worker,counselor, or member of the clergy can be helpful ifyou want to talk about your feelings or concerns.Often, a social worker can suggest resources forfinancial aid, transportation, home care, or emotionalsupport.

Support groups also can help. In these groups,patients or their family members meet with otherpatients or their families to share what they havelearned about coping with the disease and the effects oftreatment. Groups may offer support in person, overthe telephone, or on the Internet. You may want to talkwith a member of your health care team about findinga support group.

It is natural for you to be worried about the effectsof ovarian cancer and its treatment on your sexuality.You may want to talk with your doctor about possiblesexual side effects and whether these effects will bepermanent. Whatever happens, it may be helpful foryou and your partner to talk about your feelings andhelp one another find ways to share intimacy duringand after treatment.

For tips on coping, you may want to read the NCIbooklet Taking Time: Support for People With Cancer.NCI’s Information Specialists at 1–800–4–CANCERand at LiveHelp (http://www.cancer.gov/help) canhelp you locate programs, services, and publications.For a list of organizations offering support, you maywant to get the NCI fact sheet “National OrganizationsThat Offer Services to People With Cancer and TheirFamilies.” Page 39 tells how to get NCI fact sheets.

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The Promise of Cancer Research

Doctors all over the country are conducting manytypes of clinical trials (research studies in which peoplevolunteer to take part). They are studying new andbetter ways to prevent, detect, and treat ovarian cancer.

Clinical trials are designed to answer importantquestions and to find out whether new approaches aresafe and effective. Research already has led toadvances, and researchers continue to search for moreeffective methods.

Women who join clinical trials may be among thefirst to benefit if a new approach is effective. And evenif the women in a trial do not benefit directly, they maystill make an important contribution by helping doctorslearn more about ovarian cancer and how to control it.Although clinical trials may pose some risks,researchers do all they can to protect their patients.

Researchers are conducting studies with womenacross the country:

• Prevention studies: For women who have a familyhistory of ovarian cancer, the risk of developing thedisease may be reduced by removing the ovariesbefore cancer is detected. This surgery is calledprophylactic oophorectomy. Women who are at highrisk of ovarian cancer are taking part in trials tostudy the benefits and harms of this surgery. Otherdoctors are studying whether certain drugs can helpprevent ovarian cancer in women at high risk.

• Screening studies: Researchers are studying waysto find ovarian cancer in women who do not havesymptoms.

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• Treatment studies: Doctors are testing novel drugsand new combinations. They are studying biologicaltherapies, such as monoclonal antibodies.Monoclonal antibodies can bind to cancer cells.They interfere with cancer cell growth and thespread of cancer.

If you are interested in being part of a clinical trial,talk with your doctor. You may want to read the NCIbooklets Taking Part in Clinical Trials: What CancerPatients Need To Know and Taking Part in ClinicalTrials: Cancer Prevention Studies. NCI also offers aneasy-to-read brochure called If You Have Cancer…What You Should Know About Clinical Trials. TheseNCI publications describe how clinical trials arecarried out and explain their possible benefits andrisks. Page 39 tells how to get NCI booklets.

NCI’s Web site includes a section on clinicaltrials at http://www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials. Ithas general information about clinical trials as wellas detailed information about specific ongoing studiesof ovarian cancer. NCI’s Information Specialistsat 1–800–4–CANCER or at LiveHelp athttp://www.cancer.gov/help can answer questions andprovide information about clinical trials.

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Dictionary

A dictionary of more than 4,000 terms is on the NCIWeb site at http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary.

Abdomen (AB-doh-men): The area of the body thatcontains the pancreas, stomach, intestines, liver,gallbladder, and other organs.

Acupuncture (AK-yoo-PUNK-chur): The technique ofinserting thin needles through the skin at specificpoints on the body to control pain and other symptoms.It is a type of complementary and alternative medicine.

Ascites (ah-SYE-teez): Abnormal buildup of fluid inthe abdomen that may cause swelling. In late-stagecancer, tumor cells may be found in the fluid in theabdomen. Ascites also occurs in patients with liverdisease.

Barium enema: A procedure in which a thick liquidcontaining barium is put into the rectum and colon.Barium is a silver-white metallic compound that helpsto show the image of the lower gastrointestinal tract onan x-ray.

Benign (beh-NINE): Not cancerous. Benign tumorsmay grow larger but do not spread to other parts of thebody.

Biological therapy (by-oh-LAH-jih-kul THAYR-uh-pee): Treatment to stimulate or restore the ability ofthe immune system to fight cancer, infections, andother diseases. Also used to lessen side effects that maybe caused by some cancer treatments. Also calledimmunotherapy, biotherapy, or biological responsemodifier (BRM) therapy.

Biopsy (BY-op-see): The removal of cells or tissues forexamination by a pathologist. The pathologist maystudy the tissue under a microscope or perform othertests on the cells or tissue.

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CA-125: A substance sometimes found in an increasedamount in the blood, other body fluids, or tissues.Increased levels of CA-125 may suggest the presenceof some types of cancer.

Cervical cancer (SER-vih-kul KAN-ser): Cancer thatforms in tissues of the cervix (organ connecting theuterus and vagina). It is usually a slow-growing cancerthat may not have symptoms, but can be found withregular Pap smears (procedure in which cells arescraped from the cervix and looked at under amicroscope).

Chemotherapy (kee-moh-THAYR-uh-pee): Treatmentwith drugs that kill cancer cells.

Colonoscopy (koh-luh-NAHS-kuh-pee): Anexamination of the inside of the colon using a thin,lighted tube (called a colonoscope) inserted into therectum. Samples of tissue may be collected forexamination under a microscope.

Contrast material: A dye or other substance that helpsshow abnormal areas inside the body. It is given byinjection into a vein, by enema, or by mouth. Contrastmaterial may be used with x-rays, CT scans, or otherimaging tests.

CT scan: Computed tomography scan. A series ofdetailed pictures of areas inside the body taken fromdifferent angles; the pictures are created by a computerlinked to an x-ray machine. Also called computerizedtomography and computerized axial tomography(CAT) scan.

Digestive tract (dy-JES-tiv): The organs through whichfood and liquids pass when they are swallowed,digested, and eliminated. These organs are the mouth,esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, rectum,and anus.

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Estrogen (ES-truh-jin): A type of hormone made bythe body that helps develop and maintain female sexcharacteristics and the growth of long bones. Estrogenscan also be made in the laboratory. They may be usedas a type of birth control and to treat symptoms ofmenopause, menstrual disorders, osteoporosis, andother conditions.

Fallopian tube (fuh-LOH-pee-in): A slender tubethrough which eggs pass from an ovary to the uterus.In the female reproductive tract, there is one ovary andone fallopian tube on each side of the uterus.

Gene: The functional and physical unit of hereditypassed from parent to offspring. Genes are pieces ofDNA, and most genes contain the information formaking a specific protein.

Genetic counselor: A specially trained healthprofessional concerned about the genetic risk ofdisease. This type of professional considers anindividual’s family and personal medical history.Counseling may lead to genetic testing.

Genetic testing: Analyzing DNA to look for a geneticalteration that may indicate an increased risk fordeveloping a specific disease or disorder.

Gynecologic oncologist (guy-nuh-koh-LAH-jik on-KOL-oh-jist): A doctor who specializes in treatingcancers of the female reproductive organs.

Gynecologist (guy-nuh-KAH-loh-jist): A doctor whospecializes in treating diseases of the femalereproductive organs.

Hormone: A chemical made by glands in the body.Hormones circulate in the bloodstream and control theactions of certain cells or organs. Some hormones canalso be made in a laboratory.

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Hysterectomy (hiss-ter-EK-toe-mee): Surgery toremove the uterus and, sometimes, the cervix. Whenthe uterus and part or all of the cervix are removed, itis called a total hysterectomy. When only the uterus isremoved, it is called a partial hysterectomy.

Infection: Invasion and multiplication of germs in thebody. Infections can occur in any part of the body andcan spread throughout the body. The germs may bebacteria, viruses, yeast, or fungi. They can cause afever and other problems, depending on where theinfection occurs. When the body’s natural defensesystem is strong, it can often fight the germs andprevent infection. Some cancer treatments can weakenthe natural defense system.

Intestine (in-TES-tin): The long, tube-shaped organ inthe abdomen that completes the process of digestion.The intestine has two parts, the small intestine and thelarge intestine. Also called the bowel.

Intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IN-truh-PAYR-ih-toh-NEE-ul kee-moh-THAYR-uh-pee): Treatment in whichanticancer drugs are put directly into the abdominalcavity through a thin tube.

IV: Intravenous (IN-truh-VEE-nus). Injected into ablood vessel.

Laparoscope (LAP-uh-ruh-skope): A thin, lighted tubeused to look at tissues and organs inside the abdomen.

Laparoscopy (lap-uh-RAHS-koh-pee): The insertion ofa thin, lighted tube (called a laparoscope) through theabdominal wall to inspect the inside of the abdomenand remove tissue samples.

Laparotomy (lap-uh-RAH-toh-mee): A surgicalincision made in the wall of the abdomen.

Local therapy: Treatment that affects cells in the tumorand the area close to it.

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Lymph node (limf node): A rounded mass of lymphatictissue that is surrounded by a capsule of connectivetissue. Lymph nodes filter lymph (lymphatic fluid), andthey store lymphocytes (white blood cells). They arelocated along lymphatic vessels. Also called a lymphgland.

Lymphedema (LIMF-uh-DEE-muh): A condition inwhich excess fluid collects in tissue and causesswelling. It may occur in the arm or leg after lymphvessels or lymph nodes in the underarm or groin areremoved or treated with radiation.

Lymphatic system (lim-FAT-ik SIS-tem): The tissuesand organs that produce, store, and carry white bloodcells that fight infections and other diseases. Thissystem includes the bone marrow, spleen, thymus,lymph nodes, and lymphatic vessels (a network of thintubes that carry lymph and white blood cells).Lymphatic vessels branch, like blood vessels, into allthe tissues of the body.

Malignant (muh-LIG-nant): Cancerous. Malignanttumors can invade and destroy nearby tissue andspread to other parts of the body.

Medical oncologist (MEH-dih-kul on-KOL-oh-jist): A doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treatingcancer using chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, andbiological therapy. A medical oncologist often is themain health care provider for someone who has cancer.A medical oncologist also gives supportive care andmay coordinate treatment given by other specialists.

Menopausal hormone therapy (MEN-uh-PAH-zul):Hormones (estrogen, progesterone, or both) given towomen after menopause to replace the hormones nolonger produced by the ovaries. Also called hormonereplacement therapy or HRT.

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Menopause (MEN-uh-pawz): The time of life when awoman’s menstrual periods stop permanently. Awoman is in menopause when she hasn’t had a periodfor 12 months in a row. Also called “change of life.”

Metastasis (meh-TAS-tuh-sis): The spread of cancerfrom one part of the body to another. A tumor formedby cells that have spread is called a “metastatic tumor”or a “metastasis.” The metastatic tumor contains cellsthat are like those in the original (primary) tumor. Theplural form of metastasis is metastases (meh-TAS-tuh-seez).

Metastatic (MET-uh-STAT-ik): Having to do withmetastasis, which is the spread of cancer from one partof the body to another.

Monoclonal antibody (MAH-noh-KLOH-nul AN-tih-BAH-dee): A laboratory-produced substance that canlocate and bind to cancer cells wherever they are in thebody. Many monoclonal antibodies are used in cancerdetection or therapy; each one recognizes a differentprotein on certain cancer cells. Monoclonal antibodiescan be used alone, or they can be used to deliver drugs,toxins, or radioactive material directly to a tumor.

Omentum (oh-MEN-tum): A fold of the peritoneum(the thin tissue that lines the abdomen) that surroundsthe stomach and other organs in the abdomen.

Ovarian cancer (oh-VAYR-ee-un): Cancer that formsin tissues of the ovary. Most ovarian cancers are eitherovarian epithelial carcinomas (cancer that begins in thetissue that covers the ovary) or malignant germ celltumors (cancer that begins in egg cells).

Ovarian epithelial cancer (oh-VAYR-ee-un ep-ih-THEE-lee-ul): Cancer that begins in the tissue thatcovers the ovary.

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Ovarian germ cell tumor (oh-VAYR-ee-un): Anabnormal mass of tissue that forms in germ (egg) cellsin the ovary. These tumors usually occur in teenagegirls or young women, usually affect just one ovary,and can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer).The most common ovarian germ cell tumor is calleddysgerminoma.

Ovary (OH-vuh-ree): One of a pair of femalereproductive organs in which the ova, or eggs, areformed. The ovaries are located in the pelvis, one oneach side of the uterus.

Pap test: A procedure in which cells are scraped fromthe cervix for examination under a microscope. It isused to detect cancer and changes that may lead tocancer. A Pap test can also show noncancerousconditions, such as infection or inflammation. Alsocalled a Pap smear.

Pathologist (puh-THOL-oh-jist): A doctor whoidentifies diseases by studying cells and tissues under amicroscope.

Pelvic exam: A physical examination in which thehealth care professional will feel for lumps or changesin the shape of the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopiantubes, ovaries, and rectum. The health care professionalwill also use a speculum to open the vagina to look atthe cervix and take samples for a Pap test.

Pelvis: The lower part of the abdomen, locatedbetween the hip bones.

Progesterone (proh-JES-ter-own): A type of hormonemade by the body that plays a role in the menstrualcycle and pregnancy. Progesterone can also be made inthe laboratory. It may be used as a type of birth controland to treat menstrual disorders, infertility, symptomsof menopause, and other conditions.

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Prophylactic oophorectomy (proh-fih-LAK-tik oh-oh-for-EK-toh-mee): Surgery intended to reduce the riskof ovarian cancer by removing the ovaries beforedisease develops.

Radiation oncologist (ray-dee-AY-shun on-KOL-oh-jist): A doctor who specializes in using radiation totreat cancer.

Radiation therapy (ray-dee-AY-shun THAYR-uh-pee):The use of high-energy radiation from x-rays, gammarays, neutrons, and other sources to kill cancer cellsand shrink tumors. Radiation may come from amachine outside the body (external-beam radiationtherapy), or it may come from radioactive materialplaced in the body near cancer cells (internal radiationtherapy, implant radiation, or brachytherapy). Systemicradiation therapy uses a radioactive substance, such asa radiolabeled monoclonal antibody, that circulatesthroughout the body. Also called radiotherapy.

Registered dietitian (dy-uh-TIH-shun): A healthprofessional with special training in the use of diet andnutrition to keep the body healthy. A registereddietitian may help the medical team improve thenutritional health of a patient.

Reproductive system: In women, this system includesthe ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the uterus (womb), thecervix, and the vagina (birth canal). The reproductivesystem in men includes the prostate, the testes, and thepenis.

Risk factor: Anything that increases a person’s chanceof developing a disease. Some examples of risk factorsfor cancer include a family history of cancer, use oftobacco products, certain foods, being exposed toradiation or other cancer-causing agents, and certaingenetic changes.

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Salpingo-oophorectomy (sal-PIN-goh oh-oh-for-EK-toh-mee): Surgical removal of the fallopian tubes andovaries.

Side effect: A problem that occurs when treatmentaffects healthy tissues or organs. Some common sideeffects of cancer treatment are fatigue, pain, nausea,vomiting, decreased blood cell counts, hair loss, andmouth sores.

Surgeon: A doctor who removes or repairs a part of thebody by operating on the patient.

Surgery (SER-juh-ree): A procedure to remove orrepair a part of the body or to find out whether diseaseis present. An operation.

Systemic chemotherapy (sis-TEH-mik kee-moh-THAYR-uh-pee): Treatment with anticancer drugs thattravel through the blood to cells all over the body.

Transvaginal ultrasound (tranz-VA-jih-nul UL-truh-SOWND): A procedure used to examine the vagina,uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and bladder. Aninstrument is inserted into the vagina that causes soundwaves to bounce off organs inside the pelvis. Thesesound waves create echoes that are sent to a computer,which creates a picture called a sonogram. Also calledtransvaginal sonography (TVS).

Ultrasound (UL-truh-SOWND): A procedure in whichhigh-energy sound waves (ultrasound) are bounced offinternal tissues or organs and make echoes. The echopatterns are shown on the screen of an ultrasoundmachine, forming a picture of body tissues called asonogram. Also called ultrasonography.

Uterus (YOO-ter-us): The small, hollow, pear-shapedorgan in a woman’s pelvis. This is the organ in which ababy grows. Also called the womb.

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X-ray: A type of high-energy radiation. In low doses,x-rays are used to diagnose diseases by makingpictures of the inside of the body. In high doses, x-raysare used to treat cancer.

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National Cancer Institute InformationResources

You may want more information for yourself, yourfamily, and your doctor. The following NCI servicesare available to help you.

TelephoneThe NCI’s Cancer Information Service (CIS)

provides accurate, up-to-date information on cancer topatients and their families, health professionals, and thegeneral public. Information Specialists translate thelatest scientific information into understandablelanguage and respond in English, in Spanish, or onTTY equipment. Calls are free. The service is availableto callers in the United States and its territories.

Telephone: 1–800–4–CANCER (1–800–422–6237)

TTY: 1–800–332–8615

InternetThe NCI’s Web site (http://www.cancer.gov)

provides information from numerous NCI sources. Itoffers current information on cancer prevention,screening, diagnosis, treatment, genetics, supportivecare, and ongoing clinical trials. It has informationabout NCI’s research programs and fundingopportunities, cancer statistics, and the Institute itself.Information Specialists provide live, online assistancethrough LiveHelp at http://www.cancer.gov/help.

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National Cancer Institute Publications

The NCI provides information about cancer,including the publications mentioned in this booklet.You can order these materials by telephone, on theInternet, or by mail. You can also read them online andprint your own copy.

• By telephone: People in the United States and itsterritories may order these and other NCIpublications by calling the NCI’s CancerInformation Service at 1–800–4–CANCER.

• On the Internet: Many NCI publications can be viewed, downloaded, and ordered fromhttp://www.cancer.gov/publications on theInternet. People in the United States and itsterritories may use this Web site to order printedcopies. This Web site also explains how peopleoutside the United States can mail or fax theirrequests for NCI booklets.

• By mail: NCI publications can be ordered bywriting to the address below:

Publications Ordering ServiceNational Cancer InstituteSuite 3035A6116 Executive Boulevard, MSC 8322Bethesda, MD 20892–8322

Treatment and Supportive Care• Chemotherapy and You: A Guide to Self-Help

During Cancer Treatment (also available in Spanish:La quimioterapia y usted: una guía de autoayudadurante el tratamiento del cáncer)

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• Helping Yourself During Chemotherapy: 4 Steps forPatients

• Radiation Therapy and You: A Guide to Self-HelpDuring Cancer Treatment (also available in Spanish:La radioterapia y usted: una guía de autoayudadurante el tratamiento del cáncer)

• Eating Hints for Cancer Patients: Before, During &After Treatment (also available in Spanish: Consejosde alimentación para pacientes con cáncer: antes,durante y después del tratamiento)

• Understanding Cancer Pain (also available inSpanish: El dolor relacionado con el cáncer)

• Pain Control: A Guide for People with Cancer andTheir Families (also available in Spanish: Controldel dolor: guía para las personas con cáncer y susfamilias)

• Get Relief from Cancer Pain

• Biological Therapy: Treatments That Use YourImmune System to Fight Cancer

• “Biological Therapies for Cancer: Questions andAnswers” (also available in Spanish: “Terapiasbiológicas del cáncer: preguntas y respuestas”)

• “How To Find a Doctor or Treatment Facility If YouHave Cancer” (also available in Spanish: “Cómoencontrar a un doctor o un establecimiento detratamiento si usted tiene cáncer”)

• “Tumor Markers: Questions and Answers” (alsoavailable in Spanish: “Marcadores tumorales”)

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Living With Cancer• Facing Forward Series: Life After Cancer Treatment

(also available in Spanish: Siga adelante: la vidadespués del tratamiento del cáncer)

• Facing Forward Series: Ways You Can Make aDifference in Cancer

• Taking Time: Support for People with Cancer

• Coping with Advanced Cancer

• When Cancer Returns

• “National Organizations That Offer Services toPeople With Cancer and Their Families” (alsoavailable in Spanish: “Organizaciones nacionalesque brindan servicios a las personas con cáncer y a sus familias”)

Clinical Trials• Taking Part in Clinical Trials: What Cancer

Patients Need To Know (also available in Spanish:La participación en los estudios clínicos: lo que lospacientes de cáncer deben saber)

• If You Have Cancer: What You Should Know AboutClinical Trials (also available in Spanish: Si tienecáncer...lo que debería saber sobre estudiosclínicos)

• Taking Part in Clinical Trials: Cancer PreventionStudies: What Participants Need To Know (alsoavailable in Spanish: La participación en losestudios clínicos: estudios para la prevención delcáncer)

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Complementary Medicine• Thinking About Complementary and Alternative

Medicine: A Guide for People with Cancer

• “Complementary and Alternative Medicine inCancer Treatment: Questions and Answers” (alsoavailable in Spanish: “La medicina complementariay alternativa en el tratamiento del cáncer: preguntasy respuestas”)

Caregivers• When Someone You Love Is Being Treated for

Cancer: Support for Caregivers

• When Someone You Love Has Advanced Cancer:Support for Caregivers

• Facing Forward: When Someone You Love HasCompleted Cancer Treatment

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¿Necesita información en español?Llame al Servicio de Información sobre el

Cáncer y hable en español con un especialista eninformación. El número es 1–800–422–6237.

The National Cancer Institute

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is part of theNational Institutes of Health. NCI conducts and supportsbasic and clinical research in the search for better ways toprevent, diagnose, and treat cancer. NCI also supports the training of scientists and is responsible forcommunicating its research findings to the medicalcommunity and the public.

Copyright permission

The written text of NCI material is in the publicdomain. It is not subject to copyright restrictions. You donot need our permission to reproduce or translate NCIwritten text. However, we would appreciate a credit lineand a copy of your translations.

Private sector designers, photographers, and illustratorsretain copyrights to artwork they develop under contract toNCI. You must have permission to use or reproduce thesematerials. In many cases, artists will grant permission, butthey may require a credit line and/or usage fees. To inquireabout permission to reproduce NCI artwork, please writeto: Office of Communications, Publications SupportBranch, National Cancer Institute, 6116 ExecutiveBoulevard, Room 3066, MSC 8323, Rockville, MD20892–8323.

NIH Publication No. 06–1561Revised May 2006Printed July 2006