Coping with Ovarian Cancer

This is the tenth page in the Understanding Ovarian Cancer Guide. This guide was developed by the HealthTree Education Team and was last updated and reviewed on May 20, 2026.

An ovarian cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. It is normal to feel a range of emotions such as fear, anger, sadness, anxiety, or even relief that you finally have an answer for symptoms you may have been experiencing for some time. All of these feelings are valid. You do not have to face this alone.

Talking to your care team

Your care team, including your gynecologic oncologist, medical oncologist, nurses, social worker, dietitian, and other specialists, is there to support you. Do not hesitate to tell them how you are feeling, physically and emotionally. They can connect you with additional resources, adjust your treatment to reduce side effects, and refer you to support services.

Emotional and mental health support

It is common for people with cancer to experience anxiety and depression. Mental health support is an important part of cancer care. Ask your care team about:

• Oncology social workers. These specialists who help patients navigate the emotional, practical, and financial challenges of cancer.
• Counseling and therapy. Individual or group therapy with a psychologist or licensed counselor can help.
• Integrative medicine approaches. This can include mindfulness, yoga, acupuncture, and meditation that can reduce stress and improve wellbeing.
• Support groups. Connecting with others who have been through an ovarian cancer diagnosis can provide comfort, practical advice, and a sense of community.

Fertility and family planning

For younger patients, treatment for ovarian cancer often affects fertility, since surgery may involve removal of the ovaries and uterus. If preserving fertility is important to you, it is essential to discuss options with your care team before treatment begins. A reproductive endocrinologist can talk through options such as egg or embryo freezing, or, for very early-stage disease, fertility-sparing surgery in selected cases.

Menopause and hormonal changes

If both ovaries are removed before natural menopause, you will experience surgical menopause. Symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and sleep disturbance. Talk with your care team about safe and effective options for managing menopausal symptoms, including non-hormonal medications, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, hormone therapy.

Sexual health and intimacy

Ovarian cancer and its treatments can affect sexual health in many ways, including changes in libido, vaginal dryness, pain with intercourse, and changes in body image. These concerns are common and treatable. Many cancer centers have specialists in sexual health who can help.

Body image and appearance

Surgery, chemotherapy, and other treatments can affect your appearance, including surgical scars, hair loss, weight changes, and skin changes. Talk to your care team about practical strategies for coping with these changes, including resources for wigs, scalp cooling, scar management, and emotional support.

Support for family and caregivers

Cancer affects everyone close to a patient. Family members and caregivers may have their own fears and may need support too. Encourage family members to seek support through counseling, support groups, or resources specifically designed for caregivers. Family members may also benefit from genetic counseling if a hereditary cancer syndrome is identified.

Practical support

A cancer diagnosis can bring financial and logistical challenges. Resources that may help include:

• Patient assistance programs help with the cost of cancer medications
• Transportation assistance programs that help with travel to and from treatment
• Home health care can provide nursing and aide support at home
• Financial counseling through your hospital's financial assistance office

The HealthTree Community

HealthTree connects patients and caregivers with each other and with the latest information about ovarian cancer. Join the HealthTree community to connect with others who understand what you are going through, access educational resources, and find support.