Ovarian cancer staging tells you the size of the cancer and if it has spread to other parts of your body.

Your doctor will stage your cancer based on your test results. The stage of the cancer describes:

  • the size of the cancer
  • if it has spread to other organs in the pelvis
  • if it has spread to lymph nodes (glands)
  • if it has spread to other parts of the body.

Staging helps your cancer treatment team recommend the best treatment for you.

 

Stage Definition
Stage 1 Cancer is in one or both ovaries
Stage 2 Cancer is in one or both ovaries and has spread to other organs in the pelvis
Stage 3 Cancer is in one or both ovaries and has spread beyond the pelvis to the lining of the abdomen, the bowel or lymph nodes in the abdomen or pelvis
Stage 4 Cancer is in one or both ovaries and has spread further, to the inside of the bladder or rectum, throughout the abdomen or to other body parts

 

If you don't understand the stage of the cancer, ask your doctor to explain the stage in simple terms. 

Last updated: December 22, 2022