Getting diagnosed with ovarian cancer is overwhelming to say the least, and many patients leave the doctor’s office thinking of questions they wish they had asked. Fortunately, you can bring these questions to your next appointment with the oncologist. Patients are encouraged to ask any questions they have to better understand their diagnosis, explore treatment options, and feel more in control of health decisions. After all, these conversations are an important part of truly personalized cancer care.
Ovarian cancer appointments often include a lot of information, and it can be hard to remember every detail. Writing down questions in advance helps ensure that the most important concerns are covered. If time runs short, patients can ask which questions should be addressed first and which can wait for a follow-up call or visit. In general, an oncologist can answer questions covering the following topics and more:
One of the first goals after diagnosis involves understanding exactly what type of ovarian cancer one has and how far it has progressed (i.e., its stage). Ovarian cancer is not a single disease; it includes several subtypes that behave differently and may respond to different treatments. Asking the oncologist to explain the exact type and grade of the tumor helps clarify how aggressive it may be and what that means for prognosis.
For example, a question such as “What stage is this ovarian cancer, and how was that determined?” opens the door for explanations of imaging results, blood tests, and surgical findings. Patients can also ask how the stage influences recommended treatment, and whether additional tests are needed to confirm details. When the diagnosis feels clearer, it becomes easier to focus on the next steps.
Genetic testing may also enter this conversation. Some forms of ovarian cancer are linked to inherited gene changes, such as the BRCA genes that are responsible for tumor suppression. Patients can ask about genetic testing and how results might affect treatment choices or screening for family members.
There are many ways to treat ovarian cancer, such as surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination approach. Each treatment plan depends on the stage, tumor type, and general health. Patients can benefit from asking the doctor to outline every reasonable option, including standard treatments and, when appropriate, clinical trials. Some helpful questions include:
These questions invite a clear explanation of why certain medications or procedures appear in the plan. They also help patients understand how treatment may change over time and what indicators will be used to measure progress.
Surgery plays a central role in many ovarian cancer cases, both to remove as much tumor as possible and to confirm staging. Before surgery, patients can ask about the approach, the extent of planned tissue removal (known as debulking), and the experience of the surgical team. Key topics include how long the procedure is expected to last, whether lymph nodes or nearby organs may be involved, and what the typical hospital stay looks like. In addition, patients can ask about pain control options, the expected recovery timeline at home, and any physical restrictions after discharge.
Treatments for ovarian cancer can affect energy levels, appetite, hair, digestion, and mood. Addressing these issues early helps patients stay more comfortable and continue daily activities as much as possible. Asking about likely side effects and available support services makes it easier to plan ahead. Frequently asked questions include the potential for hair loss, effects on fertility, and how to reduce nausea, fatigue, or nerve tingling.
Like other cancers, ovarian cancer requires ongoing follow-up to watch for the body’s response and to detect any signs of recurrence. Patients can ask how often imaging or blood tests will be performed, which markers will be followed, and what results would signal that treatment is working or complete.
Asking questions about prognosis can feel difficult, but doing so often brings clarity. It may help to ask how the stage, tumor type, and response to early treatment affect the overall outlook. Your oncologist can help you understand these statistics in the context of your specific health and the latest clinical advancements.
Ovarian cancer can feel sudden and frightening, but meaningful questions help shift the focus toward action and collaboration. The goal of these conversations is not to rush through a checklist but to build an ongoing partnership between the patient and the oncologist. For more information, book an appointment with our Marlton team.
Request an appointment here: https://lindenbergcancer.com or call Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center at (856) 475-0876 for an appointment in our Marlton office.
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