Cancers that begin in the female reproductive organs that produce ovaries are called ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancers can be treated better when detected earlier. If you experience symptoms that might be due to ovarian cancer, the doctor will recommend exams and tests to find out the cause to provide suitable treatment. Common tests and procedures used to diagnose ovarian cancer include:

Pelvic exam: A pelvic exam is a doctor’s physical examination of a woman’s reproductive organs such as ovaries, vulva, uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, bladder, and rectum. Generally, pelvic exams are essential for examining a woman’s sexual and reproductive health. But they are also used to detect life-threatening conditions, such as cancer or infections.

Blood tests: Blood tests might include organ function tests and might also test the blood for tumor markers that indicate ovarian cancer. Blood test to check for a substance called CA125, which is produced by some ovarian cancer cells, is conducted. If the blood test shows a high level of CA125, the doctor might further refer for a scan to check for possible causes.

Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as ultrasound scan, abdominal CT scan, or pelvic MRI scan helps in determining the size, shape, and structure of the ovaries, which further helps in identifying the abnormalities.

• Ultrasound scan – There are 2 ways in which an ultrasound scan can be done. They are an abdominal ultrasound and transvaginal ultrasound. In an abdominal ultrasound, a small device called an ultrasound probe is moved over the stomach to create an image of your ovaries. These ultrasound scans help in diagnosing multiple conditions, including cancer of the reproductive organs.
• Abdominal CT scans – These scans are used when the doctors can’t find enough information through a physical exam or lab tests. They help in suspecting if something wrong occurs in the abdominal area.
• Pelvic MRI scan – This scan allows the doctor to see the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles and organs. Doctors use pelvic MRI scans to diagnose and investigate the spread of certain cancers, and to the conditions causing the symptoms.

Biopsy: This is a medical procedure that involves taking a small sample of body tissue. In this procedure, a needle is passed through the stomach to remove a sample of ovary cells from around the ovaries to check for cancer cells.

Laparoscopy: Laparoscopy is a type of surgical procedure in which a small cut is made in the stomach and a thin tube with a camera on the end is inserted. By the help of the cameras inserted, the ovaries can be examined. Also, similar to a biopsy, a small tissue sample may be removed for testing.

The tests and diagnostic procedures help in confirming whether you have ovarian cancer. If the doctor suspects cancer, he will indicate the stage of your cancer ranging from 1 to 4. Categorizing cancer into different stages helps in providing accurate treatment.