Ovarian cancer is a complex disease that affects one in 70 women during their lifetime. With no routine screening tests and symptoms that often appear in later stages, early detection can be challenging. However, advancements in medical treatments offer hope for better outcomes. Choosing the right treatment depends on the cancer stage, subtype, and individual health factors. In this blog, we will explore the various treatment options available, helping you understand how ovarian cancer can be managed effectively.
Treatment Options For Ovarian Cancer
Cancer treatment aims to eliminate as much, if not all, of the cancer from your body as possible. The most common treatments for ovarian cancer are:
- Surgery – This often includes the removal of your reproductive organs as well as any organs that have cancer. Your surgeon may do laparoscopy (minimally invasive surgery) or laparotomy (open surgery with an abdominal incision).
- Chemotherapy – Chemotherapy may be recommended either before or after surgery. Chemotherapy medications are intended to target and kill cells that are cancerous. Chemotherapy may be given intravenously (via a vein) or orally (as pills).
- Targeted therapy – This cancer therapy uses chemicals to detect and destroy cancer cells. Targeted treatment alters how cancer cells grow and divide.
- Hormone therapy – Some ovarian tumors utilize hormones to spread. This sort of treatment inhibits cancer development by blocking hormones.
- Radiation therapy – Radiation therapy is rarely used to treat ovarian cancer.
Following ovarian cancer treatment, your ovarian cancer specialist will want to see you on a frequent basis for observation. You may have routine checkups to ensure that the cancer has not reappeared over time. During these sessions, your clinician may review any probable symptoms and do an examination. Be aware of any symptoms you may be experiencing and notify your ovarian cancer specialist. Sometimes they will recommend imaging tests, such as a CT scan.
Which Treatment Is Right?
If you are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, your ovarian cancer specialist will talk about the best ways to treat it. This relies on a number of things, including:
- Your desire to have children
- Your age and general health
- The specific kind of ovarian cancer
- Stage of cancer
- The size of the tumor following surgery (debulking)
Sometimes patients seek advice from more than one ovarian cancer specialist. This is known as a “second opinion.” Getting a second opinion may help you decide which treatment is best for you.
Conclusion
Ovarian cancer treatment varies based on individual health factors, cancer stage, and tumor type. Surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, and, in rare cases, radiation therapy are key treatment options. Regular follow-ups with your ovarian cancer specialist are essential to monitor for recurrence and manage any symptoms. If diagnosed, discussing treatment options with an ovarian cancer specialist and considering a second opinion can help determine the best course of action. While ovarian cancer presents challenges, advancements in treatment offer hope for better outcomes. Early detection, expert care, and the right treatment plan can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life.