The information from this pamphlet (double-sided one page brochure, really) is from the National Ovarian Cancer Association. I don't claim to own anything from this pamphlet. The pamphlet is geared towards lesbians, but the information is useful and important for all women.

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Facts About Ovarian Cancer

- 2,600 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer every year.

- It is the most serious gynecologic cancer - 1,500 Canadian women die each year because of this disease.

- If ovarian cancer is found early and treted, the survival rate is as high as 90%.

- A pap smear does NOT detect ovarian cancer, it detects cervical abnormalities.


It Is Important to Know Why Lesians Are At a Higher Risk of Ovarian Cancer

- Not giving birth increases risk - many lesbians have chosen not to have children.

- Other risk factors include increasing age and family or personal history of ovarian, breast, or colon cancer.

- Lesbians are less likely to use oral contraceptives, which can reduce risk.


It Is Important To Know About Barriers to Detection & Treatment For Lesbians

- Many lesbians have experienced discrimination in the health care system and are reluctant to seek yearly gynecologic exams.


It Is Important to Know What to Look For

- See your family docto if you have one or more of these symptoms and they last longer than 3 weeks:

- Swelling or bloating of the abdomen.
- Gas, nausea, indigestion.
- Change in bowel habits.
- Emptying your bladder frequently.
- Menstrual irregularities.
- Fatigue.
- Backache.
- Pelvic discomfort or heaviness.
- Weight loss or weight gain.


It Is Important to Know What You Can Do

- Have a vaginal/rectal (bimanual) pelvic exam every year.

- Let your doctor know if you have had symptoms for more than 3 weeks, and ask about:

1) Bimanual recto-vaginal pelvic exam.
2) Transvaginal ultrasound.
3) CA125 blood test.

- Even if the tests are negative, ask for a referral to a gynecologist or a gynecologic oncologist if symptoms persist.

- If you have a family history, speak with your doctor about genetic counselling.

- If your doctor suspects ovarian cancer, see a gynecologic oncologist. To find one in your area, contact the National Ovarian Cancer Association toll-free at 1-877-413-7970 or info@ovariancancer.org.

Be persistent. Find a doctor that you are comfortable talking with.


It Is Important to Know Where to Get More Information About Ovarian Cancer

National Ovarian Cancer Association
27 Park Road
Toronto, ON
M4W-2N2
Canada

1-416-962-7970
Toll-free: 1-877-413-7970

www.ovariancanada.org