Ovarian Cancer and Hormonal Birth Control

Ovarian cancer affects one or both of the ovaries and is very serious if not found early. In fact, it is the 5th deadliest cancer for cis women. But did you know that taking hormonal birth control can help lessen your risk of developing it? More on that later... 

Diagnosis

About 1 in 75 people who have ovaries will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer, but it mostly affects people later in life, usually after menopause.  

Screening is done with a pelvic exam, or by having an ultrasound of your pelvic area. You may also do a blood test. However, the only way to know for sure if you have it is to have a biopsy. 

The earlier ovarian cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better. It’s important to keep up with your regular wellness exams as well as to know which symptoms to look out for and risk factors that might increase your chances of developing it. 

Symptoms  

• Bloating/increased belly size  

• Pelvic or belly pain  

• Feeling full quickly or having trouble eating  

• Feeling like you have to pee often 

 Risk factors 

• Being over 55 years old 

• A family history of breast, gynecological (ovarian), or colon cancer 

• Personal history of breast cancer 

• Certain mutations to genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2 

• Never having given birth 

• Having a body mass index (BMI) over 30 

• Infertility 

• Endometriosis 

• Never having been on the birth control pill 

So, how can birth control help? 

Hormonal birth control pills (which contain the hormones estrogen and progestin) have been shown to lower your risk of ovarian cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, women who use oral contraceptives for 5+ years have about a 50% lower risk of developing ovarian cancer compared to women who never use them. 

The longer you take the pill, the less likely it is that you’ll develop the cancer, even after you stop taking it. 

Ready to request birth control? Download the Planned Parenthood Direct app today.