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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more| .
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Usually you begin by seeing your GP, who will examine you and arrange for you to have any tests (usually ultrasound scans and/or blood tests) that may be necessary. If your GP suspects that you may have signs of ovarian cancer they will refer you| to a cancer centre to be seen by a specialist gynaecology cancer team for the tests and for specialist advice and treatment.
At the hospital, the gynaecologist (specialist in women’s illnesses) will ask you about your general health and any previous medical problems, before examining you. This will include an internal (vaginal) examination to check for any lumps or swellings.
The specialist may arrange for you to have a blood test and chest x-ray to check your general health.
You may have a specific blood test to check whether there are higher than normal levels of the CA125 protein in your blood. CA125 is a protein that most women have in their blood. The level may be higher in women with ovarian cancer, as it is sometimes produced by ovarian cancer cells. However, CA125 is not specific to ovarian cancer, and the level can also be raised in women who have other non-cancerous conditions. Therefore, other tests| are needed to make a diagnosis.
The guidelines also recommend that GPs do an internal examination to check for lumps if you are over 45 and have persistent pain or swelling of the abdomen.
Of course, these problems can have other causes apart from cancer, and your GP should discuss these with you.
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