Question 1

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Accepted Answer

Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the ovaries, often detected in advanced stages. It is caused by abnormal cell growth in ovarian tissue, with genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increasing risk. The CA-125 blood test is the most important biomarker for monitoring ovarian cancer and assessing treatment response.

Question 2

What causes ovarian cancer?

Accepted Answer

Ovarian cancer is caused by abnormal cell growth in the ovaries, where cells multiply uncontrollably and form tumors. Genetic mutations play a significant role, with inherited changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes accounting for about 10-15% of ovarian cancers. Other contributing factors include age (most cases occur after menopause), family history of ovarian or breast cancer, endometriosis, obesity, and never having been pregnant. Hormone replacement therapy and certain fertility treatments may also increase risk.

Question 3

What is the best test for ovarian cancer?

Accepted Answer

The CA-125 blood test is the most important biomarker for monitoring ovarian cancer because it detects elevated levels of the CA-125 protein, which is often increased in women with ovarian cancer. This test is particularly valuable for tracking treatment response and detecting cancer recurrence in patients with confirmed ovarian cancer. However, CA-125 alone cannot diagnose ovarian cancer definitively, as elevated levels can occur in benign conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and even during menstruation. For comprehensive evaluation, the CA-125 test is typically used alongside transvaginal ultrasound and pelvic examination. In some cases, additional tumor markers like CA 19-9, CA 15-3, and CA 27.29 may provide supplementary information when used as part of a broader biomarker panel.

Question 4

When should I get tested for ovarian cancer?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent symptoms that last more than two weeks, including bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and urinary urgency or frequency. Women with a strong family history of ovarian or breast cancer, especially those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, should discuss regular screening with their healthcare provider. Additionally, consider testing if you have a personal history of breast cancer, endometriosis, or Lynch syndrome, or if you notice unusual changes in your menstrual cycle or unexplained weight loss. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, so do not ignore persistent symptoms that seem unusual for you.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Accepted Answer

Ovarian cancer symptoms often develop gradually and can be vague, making early detection challenging. Common signs include persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort, feeling full quickly when eating or loss of appetite, and frequent or urgent need to urinate. You might also notice changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss or gain, fatigue, back pain, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. Many women describe a persistent feeling that something is wrong or different with their body. Because these symptoms can mimic common digestive or urinary issues, they are often overlooked, which is why ovarian cancer is frequently diagnosed at advanced stages.

Question 6

Who is at risk for ovarian cancer?

Accepted Answer

Women over age 50 are at highest risk, with most cases diagnosed after menopause. Those with inherited genetic mutations, particularly BRCA1 and BRCA2, have a 35-70% lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer. Family history is significant, especially if a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) had ovarian or breast cancer. Women with endometriosis, those who have never been pregnant, and individuals with Lynch syndrome or other hereditary cancer syndromes face elevated risk. Additional risk factors include obesity, use of hormone replacement therapy for more than five years, and having had fertility treatments. Conversely, factors like pregnancy, breastfeeding, and use of oral contraceptives can reduce risk.

Question 7

What happens if ovarian cancer is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated ovarian cancer progresses rapidly and spreads beyond the ovaries to other pelvic organs, the abdomen, and eventually distant sites like the liver and lungs. As the cancer advances, you may experience severe abdominal swelling from fluid accumulation (ascites), intense pain, bowel obstruction, and difficulty breathing. The cancer can block the intestines, making eating impossible, and can spread to the liver, causing organ failure. Advanced ovarian cancer significantly reduces quality of life and survival rates drop dramatically once the disease reaches stage III or IV. Without treatment, ovarian cancer is almost always fatal, with average survival measured in months rather than years. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical for the best possible outcomes.

Question 8

Can ovarian cancer be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose ovarian cancer, but they play an important supporting role in evaluation and monitoring. The CA-125 blood test measures a tumor marker that is elevated in about 80% of women with advanced ovarian cancer, making it useful for assessing suspicious symptoms alongside imaging studies. However, CA-125 levels can also be elevated in benign conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease, which limits its diagnostic accuracy. Definitive diagnosis requires imaging studies such as transvaginal ultrasound or CT scans, followed by surgical biopsy to examine ovarian tissue. Once ovarian cancer is confirmed, CA-125 blood tests become valuable tools for monitoring treatment effectiveness and detecting recurrence.

Question 9

How is ovarian cancer treated?

Accepted Answer

Ovarian cancer treatment typically involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. Surgery aims to remove as much cancer as possible, which may include removing one or both ovaries, fallopian tubes, the uterus, and affected lymph nodes or surrounding tissue. Following surgery, chemotherapy using drugs like carboplatin and paclitaxel helps destroy remaining cancer cells and reduce recurrence risk. For advanced cases, targeted therapies such as PARP inhibitors (olaparib, niraparib) and bevacizumab may be used, especially in patients with BRCA mutations. Some women may receive chemotherapy before surgery to shrink tumors. Treatment plans are individualized based on cancer stage, type, overall health, and whether you wish to preserve fertility. Regular follow-up with CA-125 testing and imaging is essential for monitoring response and detecting recurrence.

Question 10

How can I prevent ovarian cancer?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot completely prevent ovarian cancer, certain strategies significantly reduce risk. Taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills) for five or more years can reduce ovarian cancer risk by up to 50%. Having children and breastfeeding also provide protective benefits. For women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, prophylactic removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes after childbearing is complete can reduce risk by 80-90%. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise helps lower risk, as obesity is linked to increased ovarian cancer rates. Avoiding or limiting hormone replacement therapy, particularly long-term use, is advisable. If you have a strong family history, genetic counseling and testing can help you understand your risk and make informed decisions about preventive measures.

Question 11

What can I do at home to support ovarian health?

Accepted Answer

While home remedies cannot treat ovarian cancer, certain lifestyle practices support overall ovarian health and may reduce cancer risk. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish provides antioxidants that protect cells from damage. Limit red meat and processed foods, which have been linked to increased cancer risk. Regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, helps maintain healthy weight and hormone balance. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Managing stress through yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques supports immune function. Stay aware of your body and track any persistent changes in symptoms. If you have risk factors, maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about screening options and symptom monitoring.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Ovarian Cancer Blood Test

What is Ovarian Cancer?

What causes ovarian cancer?

What is the best test for ovarian cancer?

When should I get tested for ovarian cancer?

References

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