Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are becoming increasingly common and are a cause for concern.

In addition to the immediate health problems they cause, such as painful urination and genital sores, they can also increase the risk of long-term health issues, including cancer.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries. It is the fifth leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States, with approximately 21,000 women diagnosed each year.

The disease is usually discovered at a late stage because there are no effective screening tests for the early stages of the disease. This means that many women do not receive a diagnosis until the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, making it more difficult to treat.

What are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague and nonspecific, making them difficult to recognize. These symptoms include:.

Abdominal bloating or swelling
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Urinary symptoms, such as urgency or frequency

What are the Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer?

Several risk factors have been identified for the development of ovarian cancer. These include:.

Age – the risk of ovarian cancer increases as women get older, with most cases occurring after menopause
Family history – women who have a family history of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, or both, are at an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer
Genetic mutations – certain inherited mutations, such as those in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, increase the risk of ovarian cancer
Hormone therapy – women who have taken estrogen alone for a long period of time, such as for postmenopausal symptoms, may have an increased risk of ovarian cancer
Obesity – women who are obese may have an increased risk of ovarian cancer, possibly because of increased levels of estrogen in the body

How are STDs Linked to Ovarian Cancer?

Studies have shown that STDs, particularly those caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and chlamydia trachomatis, can increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

HPV is a common sexually transmitted virus that can cause genital warts and cervical cancer, while chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility.

Both HPV and chlamydia can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to DNA damage and the development of cancer. In addition, some strains of HPV have been found in ovarian tumors, suggesting a direct link between the virus and the cancer.

What Can Women Do to Reduce their Risk?

There are several steps that women can take to reduce their risk of developing ovarian cancer:.

Practice safe sex – using condoms can reduce the risk of contracting STDs
Get vaccinated – the HPV vaccine can protect against certain strains of the virus that can cause cancer
Get screened – women who have a family history of ovarian cancer or who are at high risk for the disease may benefit from screening tests, such as transvaginal ultrasounds and CA-125 blood tests
Manage your weight – maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer
Know the symptoms – being aware of the symptoms of ovarian cancer can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes

The Bottom Line

STDs are a common health problem that can have serious consequences, including an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Women who are at high risk for the disease should take steps to reduce their risk, including practicing safe sex, getting vaccinated, and staying at a healthy weight. It is also important for women to know the symptoms of ovarian cancer and to seek medical attention if they experience any of them.