How do doctors diagnose ovarian cancer?
There are several ways to find out why a woman is having symptoms like those of ovarian cancer. The doctor will ask about her medical and family history and perform a physical exam, which includes a pelvic exam. The doctor feels the vagina, rectum, and lower abdomen for lumps. The history and physical examination alone cannot tell if a lump is ovarian cancer. Therefore, if a woman has a lump, she will need more tests such as those below. If they suggest that ovarian cancer is present, the doctor may order these tests.