Here are 5 tips that you can follow to reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
1) Maintain a healthy lifestyle
As obesity is one of the contributing factors, maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and healthier eating habits can potentially lower the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
The Health Promotion Board of Singapore advises individuals to participate in a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate activity per week to foster good health and well-being.4
Consuming an excessive amount of saturated fats, heavily processed foods, and alcohol can increase the risk of obesity and various health problems, including cancers.5 Instead, try incorporating lean proteins like chicken and fish, along with a variety of fruits and vegetables, into your diet for a healthier lifestyle.5
The use of tobacco and smoking has been associated with an increased likelihood of developing cancers.5 Carcinogenic substances present in cigarette smoke can significantly contribute to this heightened risk. Therefore, quitting smoking can aid in the prevention of cancer.
By adopting these lifestyle changes, you can take proactive steps towards lowering the risk of ovarian cancer and safeguarding your overall health.
2) Explore birth control options
Using oral contraceptives for 5 or more years can decrease the risk of ovarian cancer by about 50% compared to those who never used them.6 However, it's important to be aware that birth control pills come with potential risks and side effects, including a slight increase in breast cancer risk. There are other forms of birth control such as tubal ligation, which can also potentially reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.6 Consult a medical professional to better understand the benefits and risks if you’re considering these options.
3) Refrain from carcinogens
Carcinogens are substances or agents that have the potential to cause cancer. They can occur naturally in the environment, such as ultraviolet rays, or can be found in everyday consumer products and food.7 Common carcinogens include tobacco, crispy brown foods, formaldehyde, alcohol, and processed meat.
Avoid consuming excess alcohol and processed meats, refrain from using tobacco products, and limit exposure to ultraviolet rays to reduce your exposure to carcinogens.
4) Childbearing and breastfeeding
Studies indicate that there's a correlation between childbearing, breastfeeding, and a reduced risk of developing ovarian cancer. Women who have given birth, particularly before the age of 26, have a lower chance of developing ovarian cancer and the risk decreases with each subsequent childbirth.8
According to the World Health Organisation, breastfeeding not only lowers the risk of ovarian cancer and breast cancer for mothers, but it also contributes to the development of the child's immune system and reduces the likelihood of other health issues for the infant.9
5) Stop hormone replacement therapy after menopause
Menopausal hormone therapy, also known as postmenopausal hormone therapy or hormone replacement therapy, is an approach to relieve typical menopausal symptoms and address the lasting biological changes caused by the decrease in natural hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Several studies have indicated that women who use estrogens and progesterone after menopause are more likely to develop ovarian cancer.10 | 
