What if I am diagnosed with ovarian cancer?

Information for the public

Getting a diagnosis of cancer can be frightening and confusing. If you are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, your doctor or nurse should offer you information (including written information) about the disease and its possible effects on your everyday life. You might not want lots of detailed information straight away, but it should be available when you do want it. It should cover the following subjects:

the 'stage' of your disease (see the box 'Stages of ovarian cancer' in 'Treatments for ovarian cancer') and treatments that might be appropriate for you
how to manage the effects of the cancer and of any treatments you choose to have, so that you feel as well as possible
how your diagnosis may affect sexual relationships and sexual activity
how surgery for ovarian cancer may affect your ability to have children
whether hormone replacement therapy (HRT) might be suitable for you (this is because surgery to remove your ovaries will mean that you start the menopause if you haven't done so already, and HRT can help with symptoms)
the chances of family members getting ovarian cancer in the future
how to deal with emotions such as sadness, depression and anxiety
where you can get support, including details of support groups.

Questions about ovarian cancer

Where can I find more information about ovarian cancer?
What treatments are available?
Are there any local or national support organisations for women with ovarian cancer?
Can you provide any information for my family/carers?

Questions for family members and friends

What can I/we do to help and support the person with ovarian cancer?
Is there any additional support that I/we as carer(s) might benefit from or are entitled to?