Oral Contraceptives

The use of oral contraceptives (OCs; birth control pills) can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by 40 to 50 percent. Ovarian cancer risk is particularly decreased after five years of use, although the longer that oral contraceptives are used, the greater the protective benefits.

Dietary Modification And Exercise

A low-fat, high-fibre diet and reduce meat and alcohol consumption helps in aiding in ovarian cancer. In addition, women are encouraged to exercise three times weekly to maintain a body fat percentage that is within the accepted range.

Pregnancy And Breastfeeding

Ovarian cancer risk is 30 to 60 percent lower among women who have been pregnant versus those who have not. Breastfeeding also appears to offer protection against ovarian cancer.

Genetic Counselling

Genetic counselling may be advisable if a woman's family history suggests that she may have a genetic mutation associated with increased risk of ovarian cancer. A person may be comforted to learn that she does not have a mutation, but she may be very disturbed to learn that she does.

Tubal Ligation

Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure in which the fallopian tubes are ligated, or ‘tied’ to prevent pregnancy. The risk of ovarian cancer is decreased in women who undergo tubal ligation after childbearing, although the mechanism for the protective effect is unknown.

You cannot control some things that put you at risk for ovarian cancer, such as your family history or inheriting gene changes. But you can make some personal choices that lower your risk of cancer and other diseases.