Explore Your Treatment Options for Ovarian Cancer in the Stockton Region

Ovarian cancer develops in the cells of an ovary — the female reproductive gland that produces eggs. Ovarian, fallopian tube, and peritoneal cancers are the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women in the US. They account for about three percent of cancers affecting women each year.

St. Joseph's Cancer Institute provides comprehensive care to diagnose and treat ovarian cancer in Stockton, CA and the surrounding areas. From our nurse navigators to experienced oncologists, our care team is committed to your overall well-being. To learn more about our oncology services or to make an appointment, Find a Doctor.

 

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

The symptoms of ovarian cancer are usually very difficult to spot, mainly because of the location of the ovaries deep within the abdomen. There are currently no reliable screening tests for ovarian cancer. The disease is typically only discovered in an advanced stage.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer may include: 

  • Trouble eating, feeling full quickly, or upset stomach
  • Pain during sex
  • Menstrual changes
  • Fatigue
  • Constipation
  • Bloating
  • Stomach, pelvic, or back pain
  • Frequent, urgent, or other abnormal urination 

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above for more than two weeks, talk with your doctor.

 

Types of Ovarian Cancer

There are three main types of ovarian cancer. These include:

  • Epithelial tumors (typically occurring in women older than 50)
  • Germ cell tumors (mostly occurring in women younger than 30 and highly curable)
  • Stromal tumors (more common in older women)

 

Ovarian Cancer Risk Factors

As with most cancers, the cause is still unknown. However, the following risk factors make you more likely to develop ovarian cancer: 

  • Diseases of the reproductive tract, including endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome
  • Never being pregnant or carrying a first full-term pregnancy after age 35
  • Being overweight
  • Eating a high-fat diet
  • Your genes (five to 10 percent of ovarian cancers are linked to gene mutations, including BRCA1, BRCA2, and PTEN)
  • Family or personal history of breast, ovarian, or colon cancer
  • Using estrogen hormone replacement therapy for five to 10 years or longer
  • Using fertility medications
  • Being caucasian
  • Aging (most ovarian cancers develop after menopause)

 

The Latest in Ovarian Cancer Treatment at Dignity Health

Your treatment for ovarian cancer will depend on the stage of your cancer. At Dignity Health, your oncologist may recommend the following treatments: 

Rely on our experts to guide you through your treatment options and help you understand what to expect from each procedure.

St. Joseph's Cancer Institute provides comprehensive care to treat ovarian cancer in Stockton, CA and the surrounding areas.