There are several different types of ovarian cancer. The cause of ovarian cancer is not known. Women who have had children or use birth control pills are less likely to get ovarian cancer. The cancer growth may arise from within the ovary or may spread to the ovary from some other part of the body, such as the breast, uterus, or intestine. Ovarian cancer is very difficult to detect in its early stages because the ovaries are located deep within the lower abdomen and symptoms are often not noticed until the cancer is well advanced.
Ovarian tumors are sometimes difficult to diagnose.
It is not always clear whether the mass the doctor feels during an exam is attached to the ovary or to some other organ, or is merely a full bladder. Sometimes it is necessary to get a sample of tissue and examine the rest of the internal organs for any signs of cancer. A procedure in which the doctor cuts open the abdomen to look at the ovaries. If cancer is present, both ovaries and as much tumor as possible are removed. Using the scope to see, the surgeon may take a sample of tumor tissue and fluid with a syringe.