Ovarian cancer treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Each option has potential side effects, which will vary -- both with the type of treatment and how long the treatment lasts. In addition, your treatment may be administered locally (for example, surgery) or systemically (for example, chemotherapy). Once your ovarian cancer treatment is complete, followup visits ensure that your cancer has not recurred.
An Overview of Ovarian Cancer Treatment
Different types of
ovarian cancer treatment are available for patients. Treatment options vary based on:
In general, ovarian cancer treatment options can include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy.
You and your doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan that best meets your medical needs and personal values. Choosing the most appropriate ovarian cancer treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, family, and healthcare team.
Ovarian Cancer Treatment: Remembering Questions and Answers
Many women with ovarian cancer want to take an active part in making decisions about their medical care. It is natural to want to learn all you can about your disease and ovarian cancer treatment choices. Knowing more about ovarian cancer helps many women cope.
The shock and stress after an
ovarian cancer diagnosis can make it hard to think of everything you want to ask your doctor. It often helps to make a list of
ovarian cancer questions before an appointment. To help remember what the doctor says, you may take notes or ask whether you can use a tape recorder. You may also want to have a family member or friend with you when you talk to the doctor -- to take part in the discussion, to take notes, or just to listen. You do not need to ask all your questions at once. You will have other chances to ask your doctor or nurse to explain things that are not clear and to ask for more details.
Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, or you may ask for a referral. Specialists who treat ovarian cancer include:
- Surgeons
- Medical oncologists
- Radiation oncologists.
You also may be referred to a plastic surgeon.
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