Women who have used fertility drugs may also be at higher risk. Birth Control Pills Taking birth control pills appears to reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Additionally the longer they are taken the lower the risk, but the risk of breast cancer is higher while on the pill. Some studies have linked a higher risk of ovarian cancer with the use of talcum powder in the genital area. Though not proven researchers feel it may be due to particles of asbestos in the talc.
Asbestos is known to cause cancer and women who have a high exposure to asbestos are at higher risk.
Other Cancer Women who have had endometrial or breast cancer appear to be at higher risk of ovarian cancer. It is very important for all women who still have ovaries, no matter their age, to have a pelvic exam yearly. Your gynecologist can feel any enlargement or masses on the ovaries. An ultrasound can detect cystic or fluid filled masses, which are not cancerous. If the mass is solid a biopsy should be done to evaluate the ovary.