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Overview - Ovarian cancer

Diagram of the pelvic area with labels showing the cervix, womb, fallopian tubes and 2 ovaries.  The ovaries are either side of the womb.
  • 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.
  • 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).

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: 24 January 2022
Next review due: 24 January 2025