staging
The stage of a cancer describes its size and whether it has spread anywhere else. Knowing this helps your doctors plan the best treatment for you. Cancer can spread through either the bloodstream or the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is part of the body's immune system, it helps protect us against infection and disease. It’s made up of a network of glands (known as lymph nodes) that are linked by lymph vessels. Your doctors will usually look at the lymph nodes close to your ovary to help find the stage of your cancer.
- Stage 1 The cancer is in one or both of your ovaries.
- Stage 2 The cancer has spread within the pelvis and might also affect your womb or fallopian tubes.
- Stage 3 The cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other organs within your abdomen, like the surface of the bowel.
- Stage 4 The cancer has spread outside the abdomen or to your liver.
If your cancer comes back after your first treatment, this is called a recurrence.
