An ovary is a ductless reproductive gland in which the female reproductive cells are produced. Ovarian cancer refers to a medical condition in which, the type, as well as stage of the malignant cells, are situated inside or near the ovaries. In multiple cases, the disease isn’t diagnosed until it has advanced to a different stage. About 25% of female cancers are diagnosed early. Symptoms of ovarian cancer are not that apparent in the initial stages of the condition. In many instances, ovarian cancer mimics digestive issues (i.e., cramps, boating, pelvic pain, upset stomach, back pain, etc.) so the disease can be mistaken for other minor ailments.

There is no reliable ovarian cancer screening. Women with a history of female cancers in addition to other factors need to continually talk to their health care practitioners about genetic testing as well as other steps intended to assess and reduce their risk. Routine gynecologic care coupled with annual pelvic examination is a highly recommended follow-up in assessing ovarian cancer. There are several over 20 types of ovarian cancer. Their classification is done according to the nature of the cell that harbors the malignant. Cancerous ovarian tumors begin from three main cell types namely surface Epithelium, Stromal cells, and Germ cells. The removal of one’s ovaries can eliminate the risks of getting ovarian cancer.

Common approaches to ovarian cancer treatments include:

1. Surgery
Surgery is often the primary ovarian cancer treatments method. It aims to remove the cancer. The procedure involves removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes. It can also involve hysterectomy and the removal of fatty tissue in the digestive system. If the cancer has affected one of the ovaries, only one may have to be removed. It implies that one can still have children. Usually, surgery is conducted under general anesthetic. It may take up to three weeks for the patient to recover.

2. Targeted chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often used to eliminate the remaining cancer cells from the ovaries. This is the second most critical treatment method after ovarian cancer screening. The treatment is also called neo-adjuvant chemotherapy, and it helps to shrink the tumor while easing the removal process. Typically, doctors will combine a drug such as cisplatin with docetaxel. The intention is to destroy the cancerous cells while reducing the same impact on normal healthy cells. Chemotherapy can have adverse side effects on the patient’s body. The treatment can interfere with healthy cells.

3. Radiotherapy
Aggressive radiotherapy utilizes high energy x-rays to get rid of cancer cells. The treatment is usually administered like in the case of a standard x-ray. Radiation therapy can also be used to treat other cancer sites to prevent the cells from spreading further.