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Treatments for Ovarian Cancer

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Treatments for Ovarian Cancer

The main treatment for ovarian cancer is surgery. The goal of treatment is to remove as much of the cancer as possible. It is also to preserve the ovaries and their function. Treatment often involves several methods. It depends on the cancer, age, health, and outlook. Comfort measures can be provided if the cancer is in advanced stages.

Treatment decisions may be affected by:

  • Pregnancy—can change or delay planned treatment. This is because treatment can affect the unborn baby.
  • A person's plan to have children—some treatments may affect fertility There may be options to preserve it.

Ovarian cancer treatment includes:

Surgery

Chemotherapy

Other treatments

Radiation therapy

Medications

Lifestyle changes

Treatments are based on the latest research. Clinical trials look at how safe and effective treatments are. Many people with cancer take part in clinical trials. To learn more, visit the US National Institutes of Health website.

References

  • Lheureux S, Braunstein M, et al. Epithelial ovarian cancer: Evolution of management in the era of precision medicine. CA Cancer J Clin. 2019;69(4):280-304..
  • Ovarian cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/ovarian-cancer. Accessed March 28, 2022.
  • Ovarian cancer. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/gynecologic-tumors/ovarian-cancer. Accessed March 28, 2022.
  • Treating ovarian cancer. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/treating.html. Accessed March 28, 2022.
  • Treatment option overview. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/ovarian/patient/ovarian-epithelial-treatment-pdq#section/_156. Accessed March 28, 2022

Contributors

  • Nicole Meregian, PA
Last Updated:
2021-11-28

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.