Reduce Your Ovarian Cancer Risk

Worried about your family history of ovarian cancer? Wondering if lifestyle choices could increase your risk? While some risk factors can't be changed, there are steps women can take to better understand their risk and recognize symptoms early.

Ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the tissue of an ovary (glands that make eggs and hormones). Ovarian cancer can often have symptoms similar to cervical and endometrial cancer. And it may be misdiagnosed as menstrual problems. 

Franciscan Health OBGYNs share insights on ovarian cancer – the risk factors, symptoms and the latest treatments.

Key Takeaways: Ovarian Cancer Risks

• Genetics can play a part with ovarian cancer risk. Some women with genetic mutations such as the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes have an increased risk of ovarian cancer in their lifetime.
• Lifestyle choices, including smoking and not having had a pregnancy, may be linked to a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
• Women of all ages should get regular gynecological (pelvic) exams and to be aware of their ovarian cancer risk.

Is Ovarian Cancer Common?

While the incidence of ovarian cancer is on the decline, the American Cancer Society estimates that in 2026, 21,010 new cases of ovarian cancer will be diagnosed in women in the United States.

Am I At High Risk For Ovarian Cancer?

Several factors contribute to a woman’s increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Genetics

Because genes change over time, one significant factor is the genetic changes that happen during your lifetime. Genetic changes can be inherited, meaning passed down from a parent. For some women with genetic mutations such as the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, the risk of developing ovarian cancer can increase to 50% within their lifetime.

Age

Age is also a major factor in ovarian cancer. As women age, the risk of developing ovarian cancer increases significantly, and women over 55 have the highest risk.

Hormone use

Women using estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy for menopause or an extended period may be at an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Other ovarian cancer risk factors

Other risk factors that contribute to ovarian cancer include:

• Reproductive history: Women who have not been pregnant or have not used birth control
• Early period: Starting your period before age 12
• Late menopause: Starting menopause after age 52
• Obesity: Women with a body mass index (BMI) over 30
• Smoking: Women who use tobacco products
• Race: Ovarian cancer is more common in white women than black women.

Women of all ages should get regular gynecological (pelvic) exams and to be aware of the risk factors, said Dominic Schaut, DO, an OBGYN with Franciscan Physician Network Obstetrics & Gynecology Lafayette. Screening can help detect ovarian cancer in its early stages. Knowing the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer can also help you make informed decisions about your health.

What Can I Do To Lower My Ovarian Cancer Risk?

According to the American Cancer Society, some factors associated with lower risk of ovarian cancer include:

• Pregnancy/higher number of children
• Later age for first menstrual period
• Earlier age at menopause
• Fallopian tube ligation or removal (salpingectomy)
• Use of hormonal contraceptives.

When Should I Talk To A Gynecologist About My Risk?

“An annual check-up is an important component of women’s preventive care,” said Dr. Schaut. “Just as a woman gets regular yearly check-ups to assess their blood pressure, cholesterol, vision and skin, it’s important to get screened for diseases such as cancer.”

These screenings can help detect ovarian cancer and other cancers early when they are more easily treated.

Are you experiencing abnormal urinary changes, new back pain or gynecologic bleeding? If so, it’s important to talk to your provider about your risk of gynecological cancer, including ovarian cancer.

Whether you can benefit from genetic testing or a cancer screening, don’t wait to get the information you need to keep yourself healthy. At Franciscan Health, we’re here to help you prioritize yourself – through every stage of life.

Frequently Asked Questions: Gynecological Cancers

How common is ovarian cancer?

As of 2026, the American Cancer Society estimates that around 21,010 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year.

What steps can I take to reduce my ovarian cancer risk?

5 steps you can take to reduce your ovarian cancer risk:

• Stop smoking.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Know your family health history.
• Keep annual gyn appointments.
• Discuss genetic counseling if cancer runs in your family

What screenings are available for ovarian cancer?

"Currently, there is no effective routine screening test for ovarian cancer for the general population," said Franciscan Health Crown Point OBGYN Padmaja Venkata Sanaka, MD. "However, for women at high risk (e.g., those with a family history or genetic predisposition), doctors may recommend regular pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasound and CA-125 blood tests."

What are the early symptoms of gynecological cancers?

"Early symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge; pelvic pain or pressure; bloating or feeling full quickly; fatigue, urgent urination, changes in bowel habits, pain during intercourse; itching, burning or soreness in the vulva; and unexplained weight loss or gain," Dr. Sanaka said. "Any abnormal vaginal bleeding should be reported to your gynecologist so cervical cancer can be ruled out with a Pap smear and uterine cancer with endometrial sampling/biopsy, pelvic ultrasound or other tests.”