Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2026: Understanding Symptoms, Risk Factors and Advances in Treatment

Ovarian cancer does not always announce itself with one obvious warning sign. Persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal discomfort, feeling full sooner than usual or changes in urination can easily be mistaken for digestive, urinary or other gynaecological problems. The concern is not an occasional episode of bloating or indigestion, but a new, persistent or increasingly frequent change that is unusual for the individual.

Recognising these changes becomes particularly important because there is currently no reliable routine screening test for ovarian cancer in average-risk women without symptoms. The disease also represents a significant health concern in India. According to GLOBOCAN 2022, 47,333 new ovarian cancer cases were recorded in the country, making it the third most commonly diagnosed cancer among women.

Observed throughout September, Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2026 provides an opportunity to improve understanding of symptoms, hereditary risk and the importance of timely evaluation. It also highlights how advances in genetic and molecular testing are helping doctors understand ovarian cancer more precisely and select treatment according to the biology of the disease.

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: Meaning and Significance

September is recognised as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, bringing patients, families, healthcare professionals and advocacy organisations together to improve understanding of ovarian cancer and support research and better access to care.

Teal is the recognised ovarian cancer awareness colour, and the teal ribbon is widely used throughout September to start conversations about symptoms, risk factors, genetic testing, prevention and treatment. Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance’s 2026 campaign also places particular emphasis on risk awareness, genetic testing, prevention, research and support for people affected by ovarian and other gynaecological cancers. 

Understanding Ovarian Cancer: It Is Not One Disease

The ovaries contain different types of cells, which means several biologically distinct cancers can develop there. Knowing the exact tumour type matters because these cancers may behave differently and require different treatment approaches.

Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Epithelial ovarian cancer is the most common broad group of ovarian cancers. It develops from epithelial-type tissues associated with the ovary, fallopian tube or peritoneum and includes several subtypes.

High-grade serous carcinoma is the most common aggressive epithelial subtype. Research has also changed how specialists understand its origin. Evidence suggests that many high-grade serous cancers traditionally described as ovarian cancers may actually begin in precursor cells in the fimbrial end of the fallopian tubes before involving the ovaries and surrounding tissues. 

This is one reason ovarian epithelial, fallopian-tube and primary peritoneal cancers are often evaluated and treated along similar clinical pathways. 

Germ Cell Tumours

Ovarian germ cell tumours begin in cells involved in egg formation. They are much less common than epithelial ovarian cancers and are more often diagnosed in adolescents and younger women.

Because these tumours occur in younger patients and may respond differently to treatment, fertility preservation can become an important part of treatment planning when medically appropriate.

Sex Cord-Stromal Tumours

These rare tumours begin in the hormone-producing and supporting tissues of the ovary. Some produce hormones such as oestrogen, which means they may cause menstrual changes or other hormone-related symptoms.

The distinction between epithelial, germ cell and sex cord-stromal tumours is therefore more than a pathological label. It directly influences treatment and follow-up.

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms: What Changes Deserve Attention?

There is no single symptom that confirms ovarian cancer. Many possible symptoms are also associated with common digestive, urinary and gynaecological conditions.

What matters is whether a symptom is new, persistent, increasingly frequent or clearly different from what is normal for you.

Persistent Abdominal and Pelvic Changes

Possible changes include:

• Persistent bloating
• Increasing abdominal size
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Pressure or discomfort in the lower abdomen

Changes in Eating or Digestion

Some people notice:

• Feeling full unusually quickly
• Reduced appetite
• Persistent indigestion
• Ongoing abdominal discomfort

Urinary or Bowel Changes

Symptoms may include:

• Needing to urinate more often
• A sudden increase in urinary urgency
• Persistent constipation
• Other unexplained changes in bowel habits

Other Possible Symptoms

Some women may also experience:

• Unexplained tiredness
• Back pain
• Unintentional weight loss
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding in some cases

These symptoms do not mean ovarian cancer is the likely cause. An isolated episode of bloating after a meal, for example, is very different from bloating that repeatedly occurs without an obvious explanation. The pattern and persistence of symptoms are what should prompt medical evaluation.

Why Ovarian Cancer Can Be Difficult to Recognise

Ovarian cancer is sometimes described as a “silent” disease, but that description can be misleading. Symptoms can occur, including bloating, pelvic discomfort, early fullness and urinary changes.

The challenge is that these symptoms are not specific to ovarian cancer. They may initially resemble irritable bowel syndrome, urinary problems, menstrual changes, menopause-related symptoms or other common conditions.

Some cancers also cause only subtle changes during the earlier stages. This means patients and doctors may need to consider how symptoms are changing over time, particularly when they persist despite treatment for another suspected condition.

Awareness should therefore not create fear around every digestive or pelvic symptom. It should encourage people to seek further evaluation when something continues without a satisfactory explanation.

Who Has a Higher Risk of Ovarian Cancer?

Anyone with ovaries can potentially develop ovarian cancer, and many people diagnosed with the disease have no obvious hereditary risk. Certain factors, however, can increase risk.

Family History and Inherited Genetic Changes

Inherited changes in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are among the best-known genetic risk factors for ovarian, fallopian-tube and primary peritoneal cancers.

Lynch syndrome and changes in several other cancer-predisposition genes may also increase risk.

Family history becomes particularly relevant when several close relatives have had ovarian, breast, pancreatic or certain other cancers, especially at younger ages.

Age

The risk of epithelial ovarian cancer generally increases with age, and many cases occur after menopause.

This does not mean younger women cannot develop ovarian cancer. Germ cells and certain other ovarian tumours, for example, tend to occur at younger ages.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis has been associated with an increased risk of certain ovarian cancer subtypes, particularly clear cell and endometrioid ovarian cancers. The overall likelihood of a person with endometriosis developing ovarian cancer remains low, so having endometriosis should not be interpreted as meaning cancer is expected. 

Reproductive and Hormonal Factors

Pregnancy, breastfeeding and oral contraceptive use have been associated with a lower ovarian cancer risk in population studies, while several reproductive and hormonal factors may influence risk in complex ways. 

No single factor determines whether ovarian cancer will develop. Risk should always be considered as part of the overall clinical and family history.

Genetic Counselling and Risk Reduction

Genetic information can matter at two different points: before cancer develops in people with a strong hereditary risk, and after diagnosis because some genetic findings may influence treatment.

Who May Benefit from Genetic Counselling?

A doctor may recommend genetic counselling or testing when there is:

• A strong family history of ovarian or related cancers
• A known BRCA1, BRCA2 or another cancer-predisposition variant in the family
• A personal cancer history suggesting hereditary risk
• A diagnosis of an ovarian cancer for which germline or tumour genetic testing may guide care

Genetic counselling helps patients understand what a test can and cannot reveal and what a positive result may mean for relatives.

Risk-Reducing Surgery for Women at High Hereditary Risk

For women with certain harmful inherited gene variants, specialists may discuss risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, which involves removing both fallopian tubes and ovaries before cancer develops.

The timing depends on the specific genetic risk, age, plans for pregnancy and the consequences of inducing early menopause. NCI identifies risk-reducing removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries as an established option for women at high hereditary risk. 

Removing only the fallopian tubes while delaying ovary removal is also being studied in certain high-risk groups, but it should not be considered equivalent to established risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy without specialist advice. 

These preventive operations are not recommendations for average-risk women simply because ovarian cancer screening is limited.

How is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves several steps. No single blood test, scan or symptom can confirm ovarian cancer on its own.

Clinical Assessment

The doctor begins by discussing symptoms and considering factors such as:

• Menstrual or menopausal status
• Personal medical history
• Family history of cancer
• Previous gynaecological conditions

An abdominal and pelvic examination may help identify swelling, a mass or other abnormalities.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is commonly used when doctors suspect an ovarian or adnexal mass. A transvaginal ultrasound can provide information about its:

• Size
• Shape
• Internal structure
• Solid or cystic components
• Relationship to surrounding pelvic tissues

These findings help determine what further investigation may be needed.

Blood Tests

CA-125 may form part of the evaluation, particularly in suspected epithelial ovarian cancer.

Other blood tests may be used depending on the patient’s age and suspected tumour type. Germ cell or sex cord-stromal tumours, for example, may be associated with different tumour markers.

CT, MRI and Other Imaging

CT scans can help doctors assess the abdomen and pelvis and determine whether suspected cancer has spread.

MRI may provide further detail in selected cases, while other imaging studies may be used according to the clinical situation.

Pathology Confirms the Cancer Type

Ultimately, doctors need pathological examination of tumour tissue to determine exactly what type of cancer is present.

For many ovarian cancers, tissue is obtained during surgery. The pathologist identifies the histological type and other features that help guide treatment.

Molecular and Genetic Testing

For epithelial ovarian cancers, specialised testing may assess changes such as BRCA1/2 abnormalities or homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) and other biomarkers when clinically appropriate.

These results can provide information beyond the cancer’s appearance under a microscope and may influence treatment selection.

The aim is therefore not simply to diagnose “ovarian cancer”, but to establish its type, extent and biological characteristics.

How is Ovarian Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on the ovarian cancer type, stage, tumour biology, whether the cancer can be removed surgically, previous treatment and the patient’s overall health.

For epithelial ovarian cancer, care often involves a combination of surgery and systemic treatment. 

Surgery

Surgery plays a central role for many patients.

In epithelial ovarian cancer, the surgeon may aim to remove as much visible cancer as safely possible. This is called cytoreductive or debulking surgery.

Depending on the extent of disease, surgery may involve the ovaries and fallopian tubes, uterus, omentum and other tissues affected by cancer.

In selected early-stage tumours and younger patients, fertility-preserving surgery may sometimes be considered when it can be done safely from an oncological perspective.

Chemotherapy

Platinum-based chemotherapy remains an important part of treatment for many epithelial ovarian cancers.

Depending on the case, chemotherapy may be given:

• After surgery
• Before surgery to shrink disease, followed by interval surgery
• For cancer that has returned
• Alongside other systemic therapies

The sequence depends on the extent of disease and whether surgery is likely to achieve an appropriate result.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapies act on particular biological processes that cancer cells use to survive or grow.

Bevacizumab, for example, targets the formation of new blood vessels and may be used with chemotherapy in selected ovarian cancers. 

PARP inhibitors interfere with DNA-repair mechanisms and have become particularly important for selected patients, including some whose tumours carry BRCA mutations or other evidence of impaired DNA repair. Their role depends on the individual disease setting, biomarker results and previous treatment. 

How Ovarian Cancer Treatment is Becoming More Personalised

One of the most important developments in ovarian cancer care is that treatment decisions increasingly consider what is happening inside the cancer cells, rather than relying only on stage and appearance under the microscope.

BRCA and DNA-Repair Biomarkers

BRCA1 and BRCA2 normally help cells repair damaged DNA. When these pathways are disrupted, cancer cells may become more vulnerable to treatments that interfere with other DNA-repair mechanisms.

Testing for BRCA alterations and related markers can therefore provide information about hereditary risk and, in selected patients, help guide the use of PARP inhibitors.

Antibody-Drug Conjugates

Another developing treatment approach is the antibody-drug conjugate (ADC).

An ADC combines an antibody designed to recognise a particular target on a cancer cell with a cancer-killing drug. The antibody helps deliver the treatment more directly to cells carrying that target.

For selected patients with FRα-positive, platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, the FRα-targeting ADC mirvetuximab soravtansine has expanded available treatment options internationally. (Cancer.gov)

Immunotherapy: An Important 2026 Development

Immunotherapy has had a more limited role in ovarian cancer than in several other cancers, but treatment continues to evolve.

On 10 February 2026, the US FDA approved pembrolizumab with paclitaxel, with or without bevacizumab, for adults with PD-L1-positive, platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian, fallopian-tube or primary peritoneal cancer who had received one or two previous systemic treatment regimens. 

This does not mean immunotherapy is now suitable for every patient with ovarian cancer. Eligibility depends on disease characteristics, biomarkers and previous treatment, and regulatory approval and availability vary between countries.

Clinical Trials Continue to Matter

Clinical trials are evaluating new drug combinations, biomarkers and treatment strategies.

For patients with recurrent or difficult-to-treat disease, discussing suitable trials with the treating oncologist may provide access to approaches that are still being studied. Participation depends on strict eligibility criteria and should be considered alongside established treatment options.

Understanding Ovarian Cancer Recurrence

Ovarian cancer can return after initial treatment, particularly when it is diagnosed at an advanced stage.

A recurrence does not mean that treatment has ended or that no further options are available. Doctors consider several factors before recommending the next step, including:

• Where the cancer has returned
• Symptoms
• Previous treatments
• Response to platinum chemotherapy
• Time since previous treatment
• Molecular and biomarker findings
• Overall health and treatment goals

Depending on these factors, treatment may involve further chemotherapy, targeted therapy, an antibody-drug conjugate, immunotherapy in selected settings, surgery for carefully chosen patients, or a clinical trial.

Supportive and palliative care can also be introduced at any stage to manage symptoms, treatment effects and quality of life alongside cancer-directed therapy.

Supportive Care During Ovarian Cancer Treatment

Effective ovarian cancer treatment involves more than controlling the tumour. Surgery and systemic therapies can affect physical strength, nutrition, fertility, hormonal health and emotional wellbeing.

Managing Treatment Side Effects

Depending on the treatment, patients may experience:

• Fatigue
• Nausea or appetite changes
• Bowel changes
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Low blood counts
• Infection risk

The oncology team can adjust supportive medicines and other measures according to the symptoms and treatment being used.

Nutrition and Physical Recovery

Major abdominal surgery and chemotherapy can affect appetite, weight and physical strength.

Dietary support, gradual physical activity and rehabilitation can help patients regain strength and manage treatment-related changes when appropriate.

Fertility, Menopause and Sexual Health

Removal of both ovaries causes menopause in women who have not already reached it, while some systemic treatments may also affect ovarian function.

For younger patients who may want children in the future, fertility should be discussed before treatment whenever the cancer type and clinical situation allow time for fertility-preservation planning.

Sexual health, body image and menopausal symptoms are also valid parts of cancer care and should not be overlooked.

Emotional and Psychological Support

Ovarian cancer may involve major surgery, lengthy treatment and uncertainty about recurrence. These experiences can affect emotional wellbeing for both patients and families.

Counselling, psychological support and clear communication with the medical team can help patients understand their options and manage the emotional impact of care.

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

Most bloating, abdominal discomfort and urinary changes are caused by conditions other than ovarian cancer. Medical evaluation becomes important when a change is new, persistent, increasingly frequent or unusual for you.

Speak with a doctor if you notice ongoing:

• Bloating or increasing abdominal size
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Feeling full unusually quickly
• Reduced appetite
• Urinary urgency or frequency
• Unexplained bowel changes

Women with a strong family history of ovarian, breast or related cancers should also discuss whether hereditary-risk assessment or genetic counselling may be appropriate.

Severe or sudden abdominal pain, significant breathing difficulty, fainting or another acute deterioration requires urgent medical attention.

Comprehensive Ovarian Cancer Care at RGCIRC

At Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC), ovarian cancer treatment is guided by a multidisciplinary team comprising gynaecological oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists and pathologists. The team reviews the tumour type, stage, imaging, pathology and relevant molecular findings to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Patients have access to specialised diagnostic and molecular services, advanced imaging and open, laparoscopic or robotic surgery where clinically appropriate. Treatment may also include chemotherapy, targeted therapies and other systemic treatments based on the diagnosis and biomarker profile. Nutrition, psycho-oncology, rehabilitation and palliative-care services provide additional support throughout treatment and recovery.

By combining specialist expertise, advanced cancer care and empathy, RGCIRC aims to help patients and families understand the diagnosis, participate in treatment decisions and feel supported at every stage of care.

To consult a cancer specialist at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre, call +91-11-47022222 or visit www.rgcirc.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2026?

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is observed throughout September. The month focuses on improving understanding of ovarian cancer symptoms and risk, supporting patients and families, and encouraging research and access to appropriate care. (Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance)

2. What colour represents ovarian cancer awareness?

Teal is the recognised colour for ovarian cancer awareness, and the teal ribbon is commonly used during September to show support and encourage conversations about the disease. (Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance)

3. Is there an official theme for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2026?

There is no single internationally recognised official theme for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2026. Different organisations are running campaigns around symptoms, genetic risk, prevention, research and patient support.

4. Can a Pap test detect ovarian cancer?

No. A Pap test is used as part of cervical cancer screening and does not screen for ovarian cancer. Symptoms or an ovarian abnormality require a separate clinical evaluation.

5. Can ovarian cancer occur when CA-125 levels are normal?

Yes. Not every ovarian cancer causes a raised CA-125 level. CA-125 therefore cannot be used alone to rule ovarian cancer in or out and is interpreted alongside symptoms, imaging and other clinical findings.

6. Should women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer consider genetic testing?

A strong family history may warrant genetic counselling and hereditary cancer risk assessment. A counsellor or specialist can review which relatives were affected, their ages at diagnosis and the types of cancer before determining whether genetic testing is appropriate.

7. Which is the best hospital for ovarian cancer treatment in Delhi?

For ovarian cancer, it is important to choose a centre with specialist gynaecological oncology expertise, advanced imaging and pathology, molecular testing, experienced cancer surgery and multidisciplinary treatment planning. At RGCIRC, our gynaecological oncology team works with medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology, pathology and supportive-care specialists to plan treatment according to the ovarian cancer type, stage and individual patient needs. The focus remains on clinical excellence, specialist expertise and empathetic support throughout diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.