Ovarian Cancer Treatment Chicagoland

Ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer in women, not including skin cancer. It is difficult to diagnose, but treatment is available. Ovarian cancer is a serious concern — especially for women older than 55. Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it has spread within pelvis and abdomen. Ovarian cancer is difficult to treat and often fatal when it is in a late stage.

WHAT IS OVARIAN CANCER?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in women’s ovaries. Ovaries are two almond-shaped glands located on either side of the uterus. The ovaries produce the female hormones estrogen and progesterone and release eggs during a woman’s reproductive years (the time from her first menstrual period through menopause). There are often no symptoms, but ovarian cancer warning signs are nausea and bloating, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and vaginal bleeding.

ARE THERE DIFFERENT TYPES OF OVARIAN CANCER?

There are more than 30 types of ovarian cancer. They are grouped into three categories based on where they begin growing in the ovary:

• Epithelial ovarian cancer originates in the layer of cells that cover the ovary and the entire abdominal cavity. This is the most common type of ovarian cancer, accounting for roughly 90 percent of all cases.
• Germ ovarian cancer begins in the egg-producing cells inside the ovaries. Teens and women in their 20s are more likely to have germ-cell ovarian cancer.
• Sex Cord-Stromal ovarian cancer originates in the connective tissue of the ovaries, which also produces the female sex hormones.

All three types of ovarian cancer may also spread to other areas of the body, referred to as metastatic ovarian cancer.

HOW IS OVARIAN CANCER DETECTED?

Ovarian cancer can be detected through various methods, including:

1. Pelvic Examination: During a pelvic examination, your healthcare provider examines the ovaries and surrounding organs for any abnormalities or changes in size, shape, or texture.
2. Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS): This imaging technique involves inserting a small ultrasound probe into the vagina to obtain detailed images of the ovaries. TVUS can help identify any unusual growths or cysts.
3. Blood Tests: Certain blood tests can help detect ovarian cancer. The most common blood test is the CA-125, which measures the protein levels called cancer antigen 125. Elevated CA-125 levels can indicate the presence of ovarian cancer, but it is important to note that other conditions can also cause elevated levels.
4. Imaging Tests: Additional imaging tests, such as: computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be used to obtain detailed images of the pelvic area and detect any tumors or abnormalities in the ovaries.
5. Biopsy: A biopsy is the most definitive way to diagnose ovarian cancer. It involves taking a small tissue sample from the ovary or a suspicious area and examining it under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

It is essential to note that early-stage ovarian cancer may not always show symptoms right away. That is why regular check-ups and screenings are extremely important for early detection. If you experience persistent symptoms such as:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits
• Unexplained weight loss

Consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation. 

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR OVARIAN CANCER?

The treatments are:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Drug Therapy
• Radiation Therapy
• Hormone Therapy
• Nutrition Therapy

Contact Women’s Aid Center Today for Ovarian Cancer Treatment Chicagoland

At Women’s Aid Center, we are dedicated to the health and safety of women. As a women ran and operated clinic, we understand the unique needs of our patients. So, if you are worried you may have ovarian cancer or want to get screened today, then contact our clinic right away.

Last Updated on June 23, 2023 by M Johnson