Ovarian cancer: Teenagers and young adults

This section is for teenagers and young adults. It’s about a type of cancer called ovarian cancer.

We have more info for young people about:

germ cell tumours of the ovary – causes and symptoms having tests for ovarian cancer  treating ovarian cancer

For more information about ovarian cancer in women of all ages, read our general ovarian cancer section.

Ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries, which are part of the reproductive system. This is in the lower part of your tummy (abdomen), in the area between your hips (called the pelvis). Your reproductive system is made up of your vagina and the organs involved in getting pregnant and having a baby.

Symptoms

pain or swelling in your tummy (abdomen)  a feeling of fullness or bloating in your tummy needing to pee more often irregular periods

Remember – these symptoms happen for lots of reasons other than cancer. But if you have any of them it’s important to speak to your GP.