Ovarian Cancer Services

Most ovarian cancers start in the ovary’s epithelium, or outer lining. In the early stages, there may be few or no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they can resemble those of other conditions, such as premenstrual syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, or a temporary bladder problem. However, in ovarian cancer, the symptoms will persist and worsen. Types of Ovarian Cancer Types of ovarian cancer based on the type of cell in which they form. There are three common cell types: Epithelial cells: which occur in the lining of the surface of the ovary. Epithelial tumors are the most common and the most invasive. They occur in around 85–90% of people with ovarian cancer. Germ cells: which will become eggs for reproduction. Germ cell tumors are often benign. In 90% of cases that become cancerous, treatment is effective Stromal cells: which release hormones and link up the structures of the ovaries