- Any factor that inhibits ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary) seems to protect against development of ovarian cancer. This may be because ovulation disrupts the epithelial layer of the ovary. As cells divide to repair the damage, uncontrolled division and malignant changes may occur.
- Term pregnancy (lasting the full 9 months) significantly reduces the risk of ovarian cancer. As the number of pregnancies increases, the risk of ovarian cancer decreases.
- Use of oral contraceptives (birth control pills) reduces the risk of ovarian cancer.
- Breastfeeding lowers risk of ovarian cancer, and the risk decreases with increasing duration of breastfeeding.
- Removal of the ovaries before cancer appears reduces the risk to zero. This may be a consideration in women with inherited cancer risks. Experts should base this decision on genetic testing and counseling.
- Having a hysterectomy lowers the risk of ovarian cancer.
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