Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month. About 7,400 women are diagnosed with cancer of the ovary (ovarian cancer) each year in the UK.
Find out more information about the symptoms of ovarian cancer and where you can get support.
What is ovarian cancer?
If you have questions about ovarian cancer or you are worried about any symptoms, there is lots of support available.
About ovarian cancer
Cancers of the ovary, fallopian tube and of the peritoneum are often grouped together because they are so similar. They are treated in the same way.
Ovarian cancer can affect anyone who has ovaries and fallopian tubes. This includes women, transgender (trans) men and people assigned female at birth.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer
Cancer of the ovary causes symptoms like other more common and less serious conditions. This can make it more difficult to diagnose it early. Symptoms can include a swollen tummy and pain in the back or lower tummy.
In the video below, Sadaf Ghaem-Maghami, Consultant Gynaceological Oncologist, provides a general overview of ovarian cancer symptoms.
We have more information about the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.
Diagnosis of ovarian cancer
Your GP will ask about your symptoms and will do an internal vaginal examination to check for any lumps or swelling. They usually arrange the following tests:
- a CA125 blood test to check for raised levels of this protein, which may be higher in ovarian cancer
- ultrasound scans to check the organs in the pelvis and tummy area.
Sbba's story
Sbba was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2022. Since her diagnosis, she has been raising awareness to ensure women and people of colour have access to relevant information about cancer.
Sbba said "If you feel something is wrong then be insistent, ask for tests, ask for a second opinion if you have to, do whatever it takes to get things investigated. If you are going online to search for symptoms and other information, make sure it is a reputable website like the NHS or Macmillan where you know you will find accurate information."
How we can help
Information on our website
Find out more about ovarian cancer, including risk factors and treatments.
You can listen to our ovarian cancer audiobook or download our booklet.
We also have cancer information in different languages and accessible formats including easy read and British Sign Language.
Get support from Macmillan
We provide a range of support services for people living with cancer. If you or a loved one is living with ovarian cancer, there is support available.
- You can call the Macmillan Support Line for free on 0808 800 00 00, open 7 days a week 8am to 8pm.
- Visit the ovarian cancer forum on our Online Community to connect with others who know what you or your loved one are going through.
- We also have information to help with the practical, emotional and financial impacts of cancer. Find out more about all the ways Macmillan can help.
Other organisations who can help
Charities such as The Eve Appeal share research on their website about gynecological cancers including ovarian cancer.