Hearing the words, “You have ovarian cancer,” is something no one is ever prepared for. It’s completely understandable if your mind immediately fills with questions: What does this mean for me? What stage is it? What are my treatment options?
These are all important questions, but knowing what to ask—and when to ask it—can feel overwhelming. Advocating for yourself is an important part of your care, and asking the right questions can help you better understand your diagnosis and make informed decisions about your treatment.
Here are the questions experts recommend asking your doctor after an ovarian cancer diagnosis.
This is one of the first questions you should ask. Your pathology report identifies the specific type and subtype of ovarian cancer you have, which plays a major role in determining the most effective treatment options.
According to the American Cancer Society, ovarian cancer is staged from Stage 1 to Stage 4. Knowing your stage will help you understand whether the cancer has spread, what treatment may involve, and what to expect moving forward.
Genetic and biomarker testing can reveal important information about your tumor and help identify treatments that may work best for you. Ask what tests have already been completed and whether additional testing is recommended.
Your pathology report contains the details of your diagnosis and serves as an important guide for your treatment plan. Having a copy can help you better understand your cancer and provide valuable information if you decide to seek a second opinion.
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Genetic testing can help guide treatment decisions and identify inherited mutations that may affect your family members.
“Genetic testing is particularly important for Black women when it comes to ovarian cancer for a number of reasons,” said Kevin Holcomb, MD, of Long Island Jewish Medical Center and North Shore University Hospital (Northwell Health).
In a video series with BlackDoctor and the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA), Dr. Holcomb explained that genetic testing can be a potentially life-saving tool for Black women, who face disproportionately higher mortality rates from ovarian cancer.
“If you don’t know your underlying genetic test results, you can’t be offered life-preserving or lifesaving therapy,” said Elena Ratner, MD, a gynecologic oncologist at Yale Cancer Center.
According to OCRA, up to 25 percent of ovarian cancers and up to 10 percent of uterine cancers are caused by genetic mutations, making it crucial to know your risk.
Unfortunately, conversations about genetic testing don’t always happen—particularly for Black patients.
“They may look at Black patients, low-income patients, people who don’t speak English well, or people with other serious health problems and assume they’re already too overwhelmed by the diagnosis or can’t afford testing,” said Ellen Matloff, a certified genetic counselor and longtime advocate for affordable genetic testing.
While some physicians routinely discuss genetic testing, it’s still important to bring it up yourself. Understanding the benefits, limitations, and possible implications can help you make an informed decision.
Choosing the right doctor matters. Don’t be afraid to ask about your physician’s experience treating ovarian cancer, including whether they specialize in gynecologic oncology. It’s okay to ask questions to determine whether they’re the right fit for your care.
Depending on your health and treatment plan, you may need to see other specialists, such as a cardiologist, fertility specialist, dentist, or genetic counselor. Ask who should be part of your care team before treatment begins.
Getting a second opinion is common and can help you feel more confident in your diagnosis and treatment plan. Your doctor can explain how to obtain one and may even recommend another specialist.
For women of childbearing age, fertility is an important topic to discuss before treatment begins. If you hope to have children in the future, ask your doctor how treatment may affect your ability to become pregnant.
For some women with early-stage ovarian cancer, fertility preservation may be possible. However, treatments that involve removing both ovaries, the uterus, or the fallopian tubes will make a natural pregnancy impossible. Your doctor may discuss fertility preservation options such as egg or embryo freezing before treatment, as well as alternatives like surrogacy.
Clinical trials are another treatment option worth discussing with your doctor. While they aren’t appropriate for everyone, they may provide access to promising therapies, including targeted antibody-drug conjugates, immunotherapies, and new PARP inhibitor combinations.
Ask whether you’re eligible for any clinical trials, what participation would involve, and how they compare with standard treatment options.
Cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial stress can add another layer of difficulty during an already challenging time. Ask whether your treatment center has a financial navigator or social worker who can explain insurance coverage and connect you with assistance programs. Organizations such as the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance also offer financial resources for patients.
An ovarian cancer diagnosis can bring feelings of fear, anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. Support groups, counselors, patient navigators, and community organizations can provide emotional support throughout your treatment journey. Don’t hesitate to ask your care team about resources available to you.
The questions above are a great place to start, but they aren’t the only ones worth asking. You may also want to discuss:
An ovarian cancer diagnosis can change your life in an instant, but asking questions can help you regain a sense of control. Before your next appointment, write down your questions, bring a trusted friend or loved one if possible, and don’t be afraid to speak up. The more informed you are, the better prepared you’ll be to make decisions that are right for you and your care.
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