Overview
- Ovarian cancer affects the ovaries. It mostly affects women over the age of 50.
- It can affect anyone who has ovaries.
- The ovaries are 2 small organs that store the eggs needed to make babies and produce female sex hormones.
- Sometimes ovarian cancer runs in families.
- The symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as bloating, are not always obvious.
- Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed late, but early diagnosis can mean it is more treatable.
- You can still get ovarian cancer if you've had your ovaries removed because it can also affect your fallopian tubes, or the lining inside your tummy (peritoneum).
- Cancers of the ovary, fallopian tubes and peritoneum are often grouped together because they are similar and treated in the same way.
Important: Get your symptoms checked
It's important to get any symptoms of ovarian cancer checked as soon as possible. Finding it early can mean it's more treatable.
Page last reviewed: 17 November 2025
Next review due: 17 November 2028
Information sourced from the NHS. If you have concerns about your medication or symptoms, pop in or call Hedon Pharmacy - we're here to help.
Read on nhs.uk