This archive report was first published on 28 October 2019.
Published on October 28, 2019, a study has shed light on the potential link between healthy vaginal bacteria and ovarian cancer risk.
As more research is conducted on the link between vaginal bacteria and ovarian cancer, doctors are beginning to understand the complexities of this disease that continues to affect many women.
While the exact cause of ovarian cancer remains unknown, certain factors increase a woman's risk, including family history, age, inherited gene mutations, and reproductive history.
Early-stage ovarian cancer often has no symptoms, making it challenging to diagnose. However, advanced-stage cancer has specific symptoms that can be mistaken for common benign conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome or menstrual cramps.
Signs and symptoms to look out for include discomfort in the pelvis area, weight loss, abdominal swelling or bloating, frequent need to urinate, and feeling full frequently even after eating.
Proper and timely diagnosis improves a person's chances of successful treatment. However, many women are often diagnosed after the cancer has already started spreading.
Research has shown that women with lower levels of vaginal bacteria are at risk of developing ovarian cancer. The link between vaginal bacteria and ovarian cancer risk might have a direct effect on the risk of developing the disease.
While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between vaginal bacteria and ovarian cancer, it is crucial for women to become aware of the symptoms and go for occasional check-ups.
Until approved methods and interventions that can reduce the risk are discovered, women should adhere to protective measures to maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome.
