Ovarian Cancer - Symptoms

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Highlights	Prognosis	Resources
Introduction	Treatment	References
Risk Factors and Prevention	Surgery	References
Symptoms	Chemotherapy
Diagnosis	Radiation Therapy

Some older studies indicated that use of the fertility drug clomiphene (Clomid) could increase the risk for ovarian cancer. However, infertility itself is a risk factor for ovarian cancer, so it is not certain whether fertility drugs play an additional role in affecting risk. More recent studies suggest that fertility drugs do not increase ovarian cancer risk.

There is inconclusive evidence as to whether environmental factors increase the risk for ovarian cancer. Possible carcinogens studied have included radiation exposure, talcum powder, and asbestos.

Factors That Reduce the Risk for Ovarian Cancer

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In general, factors or behaviors that limit stimulation of the ovaries or inhibit ovulation appear to be protective. These preventive factors include:

Oral contraceptive use
Pregnancy and childbirth
Tubal ligation and hysterectomy

Oral Contraceptives. Birth control pills definitely reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Studies suggest that routine use of birth control pills that contain the female hormones estrogen and progestin, even low-dose forms, reduces a woman's risk of ovarian cancer by about 50% when compared to women who have never taken oral contraceptives. The longer a woman takes oral contraceptives the greater the protection and the longer protection lasts after stopping oral contraceptives. However, birth control pills are not safe or appropriate for all women. [For more information, see In-Depth Report #91: Birth control options for women.]

Click the icon to see an illustrated series detailing the birth control pill.

Pregnancy and Childbirth. The more times a woman gives birth, the less likely she is to develop ovarian cancer. Breast-feeding for a year or more after giving birth may also decrease ovarian cancer risk.

Tubal Ligation and Hysterectomy. Tubal ligation, a method of sterilization that ties off the fallopian tubes, has been associated with a decreased risk for ovarian cancer when it is performed after a woman has completed childbearing. Similarly, hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus, is also associated with decreased risk. However, these procedures should not be performed solely for ovarian cancer risk reduction.