Possible Connection Between IVF and Ovarian Cancer Explored
Reducing your risk and listening to your body are both essential
Based on what is known about ovarian cancer so far, there are some options that may help to reduce your risk of developing the disease. These include:
- Using birth control pills for 5 or more years
- Undergoing a tubal ligation or a hysterectomy
- Giving birth
- Breastfeeding
- Informing your doctor about any family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer and considering getting tested for the two BRCA genes
- Asking your doctor about using the lowest possible doses for hormones
While these options may help to reduce the chance of developing ovarian cancer, they are not recommended for everybody. Moreover, each comes with its own benefits and risks. The best source for information on your individual risk of cancer is not media reports that you read on the internet. It is your doctor. “And again, on the prevention side: listen to your body. If you feel something is not right, go to your doctor and don’t be blown off. Be persistent. For this disease, the earlier you detect it, the better you’re going to do,” said Dr. Peter Dottino, director of Gynecologic Oncology at Mount Sinai Health System.
