Ovarian Cancer Testing in Metairie, LA

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the ovaries, the two small organs that produce eggs and female hormones. It is a serious and often fatal disease that affects thousands of women each year. Early detection of ovarian cancer is critical for effective treatment and improved outcomes.

At Swing Women’s Wellness, your well-being is our priority. Ovarian cancer is a silent threat that affects women of all ages. Our board-certified gynecologist, Dr. Katherine Swing is here to guide you through the process. Contact our gynecology clinic in Metairie, LA by requesting an appointment online.

What are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is known as a silent killer because it often goes undetected until it has reached an advanced stage. Ovarian cancer can be particularly challenging to diagnose early, making effective screening methods crucial. Remember that awareness of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer is essential. If you suffer from any early symptoms of ovarian cancer be sure to get help right away.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Changes in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight loss

Early detection and timely medical help can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival.

What are the Ways to Test for Ovarian Cancer?

Screening is looking for ovarian cancer before you have any symptoms. Early screening can help find the cancer at an earlier stage so it can be easier to treat before it spreads. Many clinical trials are underway for screening for ovarian cancer.

Three popular ovarian cancer screenings include:

1. Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS) – Transvaginal ultrasound involves the insertion of a small ultrasound probe into the vagina to produce detailed images of the ovaries. While it can help detect abnormalities, it is not a foolproof method for early detection of ovarian cancer.

2. CA-125 Blood Test – The CA-125 blood test measures the level of a protein that is often elevated in women with ovarian cancer. However, this test is not specific to ovarian cancer and can yield false positives in cases of other benign conditions or false negatives in some cases of ovarian cancer.

3. Ovarian Cancer Screening Tests – Recent research has focused on developing more specific blood tests for ovarian cancer screening. These tests aim to detect specific biomarkers associated with ovarian cancer. While promising, these tests are still under investigation and not widely available.

Keep in mind these tests can lead to false positives, a false sense of security, or inconclusive findings. If a screening test result is abnormal, you may need to have more tests done to find out if you have cancer.

How Can I Prevent Ovarian Cancer?

Regular well-woman visits can help in the prevention and early detection of several cancers. Often, Dr. Swing will perform a pelvic exam, to feel the ovaries and uterus for size, shape, and consistency. A pelvic exam can be useful because it can find some female cancers at an early stage, but most early ovarian tumors are difficult or impossible to feel. Pelvic exams may, however, help find other cancers or female conditions.

Screening tests used for cervical cancer, such as a Pap test or HPV (human papillomavirus) test aren’t effective tests for ovarian cancer. Rarely, ovarian cancers are found through Pap tests, but usually, they are at an advanced stage.

As you regularly check in with Dr. Swing you may discuss when and if you would like further screening for ovarian cancer. It is important to remember that your doctor does not necessarily think you have cancer if he or she suggests a screening test. Screening tests are given when you have no cancer symptoms.

Important Ovarian Cancer Statistics

• Only about 20 percent of ovarian cancers are found at an early stage.
• When ovarian cancer is found early, about 94 percent of patients live longer than five years after diagnosis.
• In the United States, ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women.

Am I at Risk for Ovarian Cancer?

It’s essential to discuss your risk factors with Dr. Swing to determine whether screening is appropriate for you.

Factors that increase your risk of ovarian cancer include the following:

• Age
• Family history
• Abnormalities in certain genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2)
• Never being pregnant
• Weight

Factors that may reduce your risk include:

• Using hormonal birth control
• Being pregnant
• Breastfeeding
• Having fallopian tubes tied to prevent pregnancy
• Having your uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries removed

How is Ovarian Cancer Treated?

Early detection of ovarian cancer can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer symptoms are often non-specific and easily confused with other conditions, which is why regular screening for high-risk individuals is essential.

Treatment for ovarian cancer may include:

• Chemotherapy – anti-cancer drugs to destroy the cells
• Surgery – most women with ovarian cancer need surgery depending on the stage and type of cancer

Schedule Your Ovarian Cancer Screening Test in Metairie, LA

Remember, your health matters. Let’s work together to protect your future. Schedule your ovarian cancer screening today at Swing Women’s Wellness in Metairie, LA by calling (504) 582-9010.