Oncology – Oncology Hematology News & Articles by HealthTree

While ovarian cancer can strike a woman at any age, there are a few steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing ovarian cancer.

If you are worried about ovarian cancer, particularly if you are at a high risk for developing ovarian cancer, talk to you doctor about the following, which appear to reduce your risk for ovarian cancer:

• Birth control pills: Women who take birth control pills for three years can reduce their risk of ovarian cancer by as much as 50 percent.
• Giving Birth: Giving birth to at least one child can lower your risk of breast cancer.
• Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding your child for at least one year appears to lower your risk for ovarian cancer.
• Tubal ligation: Women who have had a tubal ligation reduces a woman’s risk of ovarian cancer.
• Hysterectomy: Like tubal ligation, a hysterectomy can reduce a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer.

In addition, if you are at a very high risk for ovarian cancer, you might want to talk to your doctor about having your ovaries removed. However, this procedure can cause early menopause, which can increase your risk for other serious health conditions.

(photo credit: tanuschka)