Reducing Your Risk of Ovarian Cancer

There is no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cancer, but some factors are associated with a lower risk. The options that make sense for you depend on your health history and personal circumstances.

• Oral birth control pills: Women who have used them for five or more years have about a 50% lower risk of ovarian cancer than women who have never used them. Birth control pills have other benefits and risks, so discuss them with your healthcare provider before making a decision.

• Healthy habits: Staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight support overall health and may help lower the risk of some cancers. They cannot guarantee that ovarian cancer will be prevented.

• Menopausal hormone therapy: Some forms of hormone therapy may affect ovarian cancer risk. If you use or are considering hormone therapy, discuss your personal risks and benefits with your healthcare provider rather than stopping or avoiding it solely because of this concern.

 

If ovarian or related cancers run in your family, ask your healthcare provider whether genetic counseling is appropriate. There is no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer in people without symptoms, so a discussion about your risk should also cover any symptoms or changes that are unusual for you.