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Ovarian Cancer Screening Guidelines

One of the most important things you can do to prevent ovarian cancer is to know your body and be aware of any changes.

 

A woman’s lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer is about 1 in 78, with nearly 20,000 new diagnoses each year.

Women on couch in pain

When to Screen for Ovarian Cancer

While there isn’t a regular screening for women of average risk, you can take charge of your health through self-screening. The most important tool for early detection is to pay attention to the signs and symptoms and stay aware of any changes in your health.

Things to pay attention to include:

  • Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding
  • Unusual or foul-smelling discharge
  • Pain or pressure in the pelvic area
  • Abdominal or back pain
  • Unusual bloating
  • Feeling full too quickly or difficulty eating
  • More frequent or urgent need to urinate
  • Constipation

Keep in mind, there are conditions other than cancer that can cause these symptoms.

Ovarian Cancer Risk Factors

The more you know about your risk of ovarian cancer, the better chance you’ll have to prevent or catch it at a very treatable early stage.

Certain things that may put you at an increased risk include:

  • Age
  • Family history of ovarian cancer – If your mother, sister, aunt or grandmother had ovarian cancer, you may want to talk to your doctor about genetic counseling
  • Genetic mutations – Including BRCA1 or BRCA2, or one associated with Lynch syndrome.
  • Breast, uterine or colorectal cancer diagnosis
  • Eastern European or Ashkenazi Jewish heritage
  • Endometriosis diagnosis
  • Experiencing infertility or never giving birth
Ovarian cancer screening with sonogram

Types of Ovarian Cancer Screening Tests

Ovarian cancer screening often begins with a pelvic exam. If anything abnormal is found, further tests may be needed, including blood tests, rectovaginal exams or transvaginal ultrasounds.

  • Transvaginal ultrasound – A wand-like probe is inserted into your vagina that uses sound waves to create images of your uterus. This can be used to determine if a biopsy is needed.
  • Pelvic ultrasound – A wand is moved over the skin of your lower belly to get images of your uterus. Your bladder needs to be full for this test.

What to Expect from Your Ovarian Cancer Screening

During a pelvic exam, your provider will check the health of your pelvic organs, including the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, ovaries and bladder.

  • Before your exam, you will be provided with a medical gown or cover to change into.
  • Your provider will start by visually inspecting the vagina and vulva to make sure everything looks healthy.
  • They will then insert one or two fingers into the vagina while gently pressing from the outside and the inside of your body. This is to feel for any abnormalities.
  • The entire process only takes a few minutes.

 

Get Started

You can start by scheduling an appointment with your OB/GYN to discuss your risk and what screening options are available. If you don’t have an OB/GYN, find one near you in our provider directory.

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