RGCIRC, Niti Bagh
Ovarian Cancer Treatment in Delhi, India | RGCIRC
What is Ovarian Cancer?
What are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer symptoms are often subtle in the early stages and may be mistaken for common digestive or menstrual issues. However, persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored, especially if they are new or unexplained. Common symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
- Pelvic or Abdominal Pain, Discomfort or Bloating: Ongoing pain, pressure, or a bloated feeling in the lower abdomen or pelvic region that does not improve over time.
- Changes in Eating Habits: Feeling full very quickly after eating small amounts of food or a noticeable loss of appetite.
- Vaginal Discharge or Abnormal Bleeding: Unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding, particularly if it occurs between periods or after menopause.
- Bowel Changes: Persistent changes in bowel habits such as constipation, diarrhoea, or a change in stool consistency.
- Increase in Abdominal Size: Noticeable swelling or enlargement of the abdomen that may be mistaken for weight gain or bloating.
- Frequent Urination: A sudden or ongoing need to urinate more often than usual without any clear cause.
If these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, it is important to consult a specialist promptly. Early evaluation can help in detecting ovarian cancer at a stage where treatment outcomes are significantly better.
What are the Causes and Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer?
While the exact cause of ovarian cancer is not always known, several risk factors are known to increase the risk. These include:
- Old Age: The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, particularly after the age of 60 years or menopause.
- Obesity: Excess body weight may contribute to hormonal changes that increase cancer risk.
- Family History of Ovarian Cancer: A history of ovarian, breast, or related cancers in close relatives can increase the risk.
- Never Being Pregnant or Having Children Later in Life: Reproductive history may influence hormone exposure over time, which can increase the risk.
- Endometriosis: This condition, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, has been linked to a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
Understanding these risk factors can help in identifying individuals who may benefit from closer monitoring or preventive strategies. Regular check-ups and timely medical consultation play an important role in early detection.
What are the Stages Of Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer is classified into stages based on how far it has spread in the body. Staging helps doctors determine the severity of the disease and plan the most appropriate treatment strategy.
- Stage I: The cancer is limited to one or both ovaries. It is the earliest stage and often has the best treatment outcomes when detected early.
- Stage II: The cancer has spread to other organs within the pelvis, such as the uterus or fallopian tubes, but remains confined to the pelvic region.
- Stage III: The cancer has spread beyond the pelvis into the abdominal cavity or nearby lymph nodes. This is one of the most commonly diagnosed stages.
- Stage IV: The most advanced stage, where cancer has spread to distant organs such as the liver, lungs, or other parts of the body.
Accurate staging is a crucial step in ovarian cancer management, as it directly influences the choice of treatment and overall prognosis. At RGCIRC, staging is carried out using advanced imaging and surgical evaluation to ensure precise treatment planning.
How is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?
Ovarian cancer is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests that may include the following:
Imaging TestsImaging helps visualise the ovaries and surrounding structures to detect abnormalities and assess the spread of disease. Common tests include:
- Pelvic Ultrasound: Often the first imaging test used to evaluate ovarian abnormalities.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of soft tissues for better characterisation of tumours.
- CECT (Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography): Helps assess the extent of disease spread within the abdomen and pelvis.
- PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography): Used in selected cases to detect active cancer cells in the body.
Blood investigations, such as tumour marker tests (e.g., CA-125), may help support the diagnosis and monitor disease progression or response to treatment.
Surgical EvaluationIn many cases, surgery is required not only for treatment but also for confirming the diagnosis and determining the exact stage of cancer.
LaparoscopyA minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera is inserted into the abdomen to directly examine the ovaries and obtain tissue samples if needed.
How is Ovarian Cancer Treated?
Treatment for ovarian cancer is personalised based on the stage of disease, tumour type, overall health, and treatment goals. At RGCIRC, care is planned through a multidisciplinary team to ensure the best possible clinical outcomes along with supportive, patient-centred care.
- Surgery: Surgery is usually the first and most important step in ovarian cancer treatment. It may involve removing one or both ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and nearby affected tissues. In many cases, surgeons also remove visible tumour deposits in the abdomen (debulking surgery) to reduce cancer burden and improve the effectiveness of further treatment.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer medicines to destroy cancer cells that may remain after surgery or to shrink tumours before surgery in advanced cases. It is typically given in cycles and may be administered intravenously, or in some cases, directly into the abdominal cavity. Besides contributing to treatment, chemotherapy also helps reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy works by focusing on specific genetic mutations or proteins that drive cancer growth. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, it aims to selectively attack cancer cells while sparing normal cells. This approach is often used in advanced or recurrent ovarian cancer and may be combined with chemotherapy to improve response and delay progression.
- Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy is used in selected types of ovarian cancer that are sensitive to hormonal changes. It works by blocking hormones that may stimulate cancer growth. Although not commonly used for all ovarian cancers, it can be an effective option in specific subtypes or recurrent disease.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells in a targeted area. While not a standard treatment for most ovarian cancer cases, it may be recommended in certain situations such as controlling localized disease, relieving symptoms, or treating recurrence in specific regions.
At RGCIRC, each treatment pathway is carefully individualised, ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate combination of therapies based on their unique medical needs and overall well-being.
Why Choose RGCIRC for Ovarian Cancer Treatment?
At RGCIRC, we don’t just focus on treating the disease, we also ensure every patient receives the care, compassion and transparency they deserve. Guided by our principles of “Ethics, Empathy & Excellence”, our team delivers precise, personalised care at every stage of the disease, leaving no stone unturned to ensure a seamless experience and the best possible outcome for every patient. This is made possible by:
- Multidisciplinary Expertise: A team of surgical, medical, and radiation oncologists collaborate to design individualised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s condition.
- Advanced Technology: Modern diagnostic tools and treatment facilities ensure accurate staging and evidence-based, effective care.
- Comprehensive Treatment Approach: All major treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, are available under one roof for seamless care.
- Holistic Support: Equal focus is placed on emotional well-being, recovery, and long-term quality of life alongside medical treatment.
At RGCIRC, patients receive trusted, coordinated, and world-class ovarian cancer care in Delhi.
Access Advanced Ovarian Cancer Treatments at RGCIRC
If you or your loved one is experiencing symptoms or has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, timely specialist consultation can make a significant difference to outcomes. At RGCIRC, our multidisciplinary team is here to guide you with accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment planning, and compassionate support at every step. Contact us today to book a consultation and begin your journey towards expert, comprehensive cancer care.
Call +91-11-4702 2222 (Rohini) / +91-11-4582 2222 (Niti Bagh, South Delhi) Book online at care.rgcirc.org | Download the RGCI Care app on iOS and Android
OPD Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM | Emergency Services: 24×7 at both campuses
Frequently Asked Questions about Ovarian Cancer
There is no sure way to prevent it, but risk can be reduced by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, considering oral contraceptives (after medical advice), and discussing genetic risk factors with a doctor.
How do you tell if an ovarian cyst is cancerous?Most ovarian cysts are benign. Imaging tests, blood tests like CA-125, and sometimes biopsy or surgery are needed to determine if a cyst is cancerous.
Who treats ovarian cancer?Ovarian cancer is treated by a multidisciplinary team including Gynecologists, Pathologists, medical oncologists, and Radiation Oncologists.
How to treat ovary tumors?Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and in some cases radiation therapy, depending on the type and stage of the tumour.
What is the most common treatment for ovarian cancer?The most common treatment is surgery followed by chemotherapy, especially in most diagnosed cases beyond the earliest stage.
Is Stage 1 ovarian cancer curable?Yes, Stage 1 ovarian cancer has a high chance of successful treatment when diagnosed early and managed appropriately.
Can ovarian cancer be cured without surgery?In most cases, surgery is an important part of treatment. However, some advanced cases may be managed with chemotherapy or targeted therapy when surgery is not immediately possible.
What are the side effects of ovarian cancer treatment?Side effects may include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, hormonal changes, early menopause, and temporary impact on fertility, depending on the treatment type.
What is the most successful treatment for ovarian cancer?Success depends on stage and patient condition, but a combination of surgery and chemotherapy is most commonly effective in achieving good outcomes.
Where is the best hospital for ovarian cancer?The best hospital is one that offers multidisciplinary cancer care, advanced technology, and experienced specialists. RGCIRC, Delhi, is among the leading cancer centres in India for ovarian cancer treatment.
When should I see a doctor?You should see a doctor if you experience persistent bloating, pelvic pain, early satiety, frequent urination, or unexplained abdominal changes lasting more than a few weeks.