The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system. They are responsible for producing female sex hormones and eggs, which are reproductive cells.
Ovarian cancer most commonly occurs in women aged between 55 and 64 years.
Early Symptoms
Initial signs may include:
- Abdominal bloating
- Feeling full quickly after eating
- Abnormal abdominal pain or discomfort
Screening
Currently, there are no standard recommendations for routine ovarian cancer screening in the general population.
Screening may be considered in women with known BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, and typically includes:
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- Serum CA-125 testing every 6–12 months
Current Standard Treatment
- All patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer should undergo genetic testing to detect gene mutations.
- The mainstay treatment is surgical removal of the uterus and ovaries, followed by chemotherapy.
- Targeted therapy is now increasingly used after chemotherapy to help prevent recurrence.
Integrative and Supportive Therapies
Perioperative (Surgical Support) Care
- Discontinue all dietary supplements 7 days before surgery
- Ensure adequate protein intake for tissue repair
- Supplement with essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Zinc to support wound healing
- Surgical wound care may be supported with Vitamin E or Rose Hip Oil
Managing Menopausal Symptoms and Bone Loss
After surgical removal of both ovaries, menopausal symptoms and reduced bone density may occur.
Supportive options include:
- Natural extracts such as Evening Primrose Oil, Black Cohosh, and St. John’s Wort
- Calcium, Vitamin D3, and Vitamin K2 supplements to prevent bone demineralization
- Regular physical exercise to strengthen bones and muscles, reduce LDL cholesterol, and lower the risk of hypertension and hot flashes.
Start with preferred light-intensity exercise and gradually progress to moderate intensity.
Strength training is also recommended for building muscle mass.
Support During Chemotherapy
- Common chemotherapy regimens for ovarian cancer may include:
- Platinum-based drugs, which can suppress bone marrow and cause nausea
- Taxane drugs, which may cause peripheral neuropathy (numbness in the hands and feet)
- Certain vitamins and natural compounds may be used to reduce side effects without interfering with chemotherapy efficacy.
For example, alpha-lipoic acid has been studied for its role in preventing neuropathy from taxane-based chemotherapy. - Systemic or Local Hyperthermia (whole-body or localized heat therapy) may be used to enhance chemotherapy effectiveness.
- For chemotherapy-induced anemia, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy may be considered to support tissue oxygenation and recovery.
