Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones. It is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making it difficult to detect.

As ovarian cancer progresses, symptoms may include abdominal bloating or swelling, pelvic pain or pressure, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, changes in bowel habits, frequent urination, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

The exact cause of ovarian cancer is not fully understood, but certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing the disease, including family history of ovarian or breast cancer, inherited genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), older age, and certain reproductive factors such as never having given birth or starting menstruation at an early age.