Did you know that a large number of women suffer from the menace of ovarian cancer all over the world? An alarming increase is being witnessed in the rate of women suffering from this problem. It is very important to take some preventive measures to fight this disease. So, here are some ways in which this problem can be prevented. Without any further delay, let us get into the blog and know more about ovarian cancer.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer occurs when the abnormal cells in your ovaries or fallopian tubes start to grow and multiply out of control. These ovaries, which are a part of the female reproductive system, are responsible for the production of eggs. Sometimes, ovarian cancer is difficult to detect because the symptoms often don’t develop until the extreme stages. However, certain types of cancer treatment options are available and they can be used to suppress ovarian cancer.
Signs of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer may cause the following signs and symptoms:
- Vaginal bleeding or discharge from the vagina, which is not at all normal for you
- Pain in the pelvic area
- Continuous bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulty while eating
- Changes in your bathroom habits, such as frequent or urgent urination or constipation
Additional symptoms to take note:
- Nausea
- Pressure in the pelvis
- Indigestion
- Weight loss
- Menstrual changes
Tips to Prevent Ovarian Cancer for Women at High Risk
- One of the most important tips to fight ovarian cancer is the use of pills meant for birth control. These pills will not only avoid unwanted pregnancy but also help reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer. It is believed that ovarian cancer can be reduced by 40-50 percent when following this tip. After using these pills for five years, the risks are decreased considerably. If the duration of using oral contraceptives is high, the risk of being afflicted by this condition reduces accordingly.
- A healthy diet can also help prevent ovarian cancer. Women are recommended to eat a high-fiber, low-fat diet. They should also reduce alcohol and meat consumption. According to studies conducted in this field, following this tip for four years can significantly reduce the chances of developing cancer in the ovaries.
- Women must exercise regularly, at least thrice a week, to maintain the percentage of body fat within the accepted range. If the BMI or Body Mass Index in adults above 18 years of age is more than 25, they are prone to a risk of suffering from ovarian cancer.
Ovarian Cancer Causes & Treatments
- The risk of ovarian cancer is relatively low in women who have delivered their first child before reaching the age of 30 years. Successive pregnancy reduces ovarian cancer risks. When women breastfeed their children, the levels of progesterone and estrogen hormones drop, which offers protection against cancer in the ovaries.
- Genetic counseling is another way through which ovarian cancer can be avoided. Physicians conduct genetic analyses to identify if a woman falls under the high-risk category. This analysis will help to make well-informed decisions regarding strategies related to prevention.
- Undergoing surgery is one of the effective ways of fighting ovarian cancer. Tubal ligation is one such procedure, where the fallopian tubes are tied, preventing pregnancy. Ovary removal is also one of the options that will keep a woman safe from the risks of ovarian cancer.
- The risk of ovarian cancer is decreased in women who undergo tubal ligation after childbearing, although the mechanism for the protective effect is unknown. Some experts theorize that tubal ligation or hysterectomy – the surgical removal of the uterus, may stop carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) from reaching the ovaries after they enter the body through the vagina.
- One of the more drastic options is ovary removal. If a woman is over age 40 and a hysterectomy is being performed for a noncancerous condition, such as uterine fibroids, she may decide to have her ovaries removed during this operation to lower her risk of ovarian cancer. However, this procedure may cause early menopause in pre-menopausal women. Therefore, it is usually recommended only for women who have completed their families and have a strong family history of ovarian cancer.
- Keep in mind that removal of the ovaries does not ensure protection in all high-risk patients. Cancers may still form from lining cells within the pelvic cavity despite the removal of normal ovaries.
Things You Have to Follow
Foods to Include & Avoid
If you are under chemotherapy treatment, you may notice that it causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
These symptoms might make it more challenging for your body to digest food and obtain the required amount of nutrients it needs to fight against cancer. However, the following tips can help you combat your symptoms and help your body fight against ovarian cancer better.
- Split your meals and try eating five to six times a day
- Choose food that doesn’t have a strong smell
- Try brown rice instead of white rice, after consulting with your doctor
- Avoid high-fat foods like fat milk, cheese, etc.
- Drink liquids between your meals, rather than along with the meals
- Consume your nausea medications as prescribed
- Take enough rest!
Mouth sores are the most common side effect of chemotherapy. Avoid tomato products like ketchup, citrus fruits and juices, and even spicy foods. Always choose soft texture foods like cream soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, eggs, and bananas. These tips are to be followed during your treatment period. But remember, once you finish your treatment, it is still important to eat a very healthy diet. Better take at least 2 1/2 cups of fruits and vegetables a day. Research suggests that women who eat more vegetables, specifically cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage will reduce their risks of getting ovarian cancer.
Exercise Regularly
It is very important to stay active and energetic if you have ovarian cancer. Regular exercise helps boost your energy levels and strengthens your immune system. It also relaxes your mind and improves your mood by reducing stress levels.
Science says that inactive women have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer than those who exercise regularly. So better exercise regularly to make yourself strong enough to have a healthy life.
I hope this blog helps you know more about ovarian cancer, its prevention, and treatments. So, follow our prevention tips and stay healthy to keep ovarian cancer at bay.