Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

What is ovarian cancer?

The ovaries are two small glands that form part of the female reproductive system, which is also made up of the vagina, cervix, uterus (womb) and Fallopian tubes. Ovaries have two main functions:

• Produce, store, and release eggs for reproduction
• Produce the female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone

Ovarian cancer occurs when there are abnormal cells in the ovary which multiply, creating a tumour. Tumours will either be benign or malignant. Benign tumours are non-cancerous and do not usually spread to other parts of the body. They may require some treatment but are rarely life threatening. If the tumour is malignant it is cancerous and when left untreated may spread to other parts of the body.  

Your treatment will depend on the type, stage and grade of ovarian cancer you’re diagnosed with. If it’s left unchecked, it can affect other parts of the body too.

To find out more information visit Ovarian Cancer Action. You may also want to take a look at NHS employer’s additional guidance for employers on supporting employees with long-term health conditions returning to and continuing in work.