One of the most serious gynaecological cancers in the UK, it’s often hard to detect early. Genetic screening for ovarian cancer helps you spot inherited risk and take action sooner.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, making awareness and early detection especially important.
Ovarian cancer predominantly affects older women, with the majority of cases occurring in those over the age of 50.
This is compared to a 2% average lifetime risk in the general population.
Approximately 11%of cases are estimated to be 'preventable' by Cancer Research UK.
Disclaimer! The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is based on NHS recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical conditions or treatments.
Ovarian cancer is a disease where abnormal cells in the ovaries grow and divide uncontrollably. These cells can form a lump or tumour, and in some cases, may spread to other parts of the body. The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system and are responsible for producing eggs and hormones like oestrogen and progesterone.
Most ovarian cancers start in the cells covering the ovary (epithelial ovarian cancer), but they can also begin in the egg-producing cells or the supporting tissue. Ovarian cancer is often called a "silent" disease because symptoms can be vague and easy to overlook. It mainly affects women after the age of 50, but it can happen at any age. Like many cancers, early detection and genetic screening for ovarian cancer can greatly improve the chances of successful treatment.
If you have a family history of ovarian cancer, or related cancers such as breast, bowel, or prostate cancer, you may want to consider genetic testing for ovarian cancer. Certain inherited changes (mutations) in genes like BRCA1, BRCA2, and others can significantly raise the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Testing can help you understand whether you carry one of these genetic changes, offering important information for your future health and for your family.
You might be at higher risk if you have two or more close relatives who have had ovarian cancer, if you or a family member were diagnosed at a younger age (under 50), or if you have a known inherited mutation in your family. People of certain ethnic backgrounds, such as those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, are particularly at higher risk, around 1 in 40 people in this group carry a BRCA mutation, compared to about 1 in 400 in the general population. Research also shows that about 15-20% of ovarian cancers are linked to inherited genetic changes, with BRCA1 and BRCA2 being the most commonly involved genes. Genetic testing for ovarian cancer’s risk can open up options for early monitoring, preventative treatments, or risk-reducing surgery. This is often done alongside professional genetic counselling, helping you make informed decisions.
These symptoms are common to many less serious conditions, but if they are new, persistent, or frequent (happening more than 12 times a month), it’s important to see a doctor. Early diagnosis can make a big difference to treatment outcomes.
Ovarian cancer can be caused by a mix of factors, including increasing age, hormone levels, lifestyle factors, and family history. In some cases, the exact cause is unknown. Having a strong family history of ovarian, breast, prostate, or pancreatic cancer may increase your risk.
Around 15-20% of ovarian cancers are linked to inherited genetic mutations, most commonly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. People of Ashkenazi Jewish descent are at particularly higher risk, with about 1 in 40 carrying a BRCA mutation compared to about 1 in 400 in the general population. Genetic testing can help detect these inherited risks and inform decisions about screening, monitoring, and preventative options.
There isn’t a single reliable screening test for ovarian cancer in the general population. However, if symptoms suggest a problem, doctors may recommend a combination of tests such as a pelvic examination, an ultrasound scan, and blood tests like CA125, which looks for a protein often raised in ovarian cancer.
If you are concerned about inherited risk, genetic testing can check for changes in BRCA1, BRCA2, and other relevant genes. Knowing your genetic status can help you and your healthcare team plan the best approach for your health, including regular monitoring or risk-reducing strategies.
Treatment for ovarian cancer usually involves surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible, often followed by chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. The exact treatment plan depends on the type, stage, and grade of the cancer. In some cases, targeted therapies and hormone therapies may also be used.
For individuals found to carry inherited gene mutations, treatment plans may also include preventative measures such as removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes before cancer develops. Your care team will work with you to choose the most effective treatment and support you through every step, aiming to balance successful outcomes with quality of life.
We offer expert advice and testing for a range of genes that may increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer.
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You don’t need a strong family history to benefit from ovarian cancer genetic testing. Inherited risks can quietly pass through generations without being diagnosed. If you or close relatives have had colorectal cancer, breast cancer, endometrial cancer, or other cancers or if there are unusual patterns of illness, genetic testing may reveal hidden risk.
At Jeen, our at-home test and expert support help you take control early, with insights that can guide screening and prevention.
Jeen’s genetic testing for ovarian cancer is priced at £660. This all-inclusive cost covers your at-home DNA kit, lab analysis using high-depth 50x sequencing, and a personalised consultation with one of our expert genetic counsellors.
The test analyses 50 carefully chosen genes, each backed by strong scientific evidence linked to prostate cancer risk. You’ll get accurate insights into your inherited risk and support to help you decide on next steps with no extra charges or referrals needed.
Yes, genetic testing can play a key role in guiding treatment for ovarian cancer. Inherited mutations in genes like BRCA1, BRCA2, RAD51C, and BRIP1 can affect how your cancer responds to certain therapies. For example, PARP inhibitors are more effective in cancers with DNA repair gene mutations.
At Jeen, our at-home test uses 50x sequencing to detect these changes, with expert counselling to help you understand your options.
Absolutely. While a family history can raise your risk, many women without one still carry inherited mutations like in BRCA1 or BRCA2. These changes can occur without a clear pattern.
At Jeen, anyone can access genetic testing to better understand their risk. Our at-home test is easy, accurate, and supported by expert counselling, so you can take control of your health, with or without a family history.
Ovarian cancer genetic testing is available on the NHS if you meet certain criteria like a strong family history. Your GP or specialist can refer you to a genetic counselling service, but NHS testing may be limited to key genes and involve longer wait times.
Private genetic testing, like Jeen’s, is available without referral, offers broader gene panels, and delivers faster results. We provide clear pricing and expert guidance, so you can take control without delay.
At Jeen, we test for inherited changes in key genes linked to ovarian cancer. This includes BRCA testing, and other important genes like RAD51C, EPCAM, and BRIP1. Using advanced 50x DNA sequencing, we analyse your sample taken from a simple at-home buccal swab, with hospital-grade accuracy.
Your results are reviewed by experts and explained by our genetic counsellors, helping you understand your risk and take proactive steps.
You can access private ovarian cancer genetic testing in London with Jeen, all from the comfort of home. We’ll send you a simple cheek swab kit, so there’s no need to visit a clinic.
Your sample is analysed in a certified US lab using advanced technology, and you’ll get expert support from our genetic counsellors. Whether you're in central London or beyond, Jeen offers fast, reliable results and personalised care you can trust.
Yes, about 15–20% of ovarian cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations, most often in BRCA1 or BRCA2. These changes can be passed down through families, sometimes without a known history of cancer. That’s why genetic testing matters.
At Jeen, we help uncover your inherited risk early, so you can make informed choices about screening and prevention. Because knowing your risk is the first step to protecting your future.
Results come between 3-4 weeks.
At Jeen, results are typically ready within four weeks. After you complete your at-home buccal swab and return it, your sample is analysed using advanced 50x sequencing in a certified lab.
Once your results are ready, you’ll have a one-to-one consultation with a genetic counsellor to explain what the results mean and help plan your next steps, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Getting genetic testing with Jeen is easy. Simply order your at-home DNA kit, collect a cheek swab, and post it back to our certified lab. We analyse key genes linked to ovarian cancer using advanced 50x sequencing.
Once your results are ready, you’ll have a session with a genetic counsellor to explain your risk and guide your next steps. No referrals, no waiting, just expert care, from the comfort of home.
Our team of expert Genetic Counsellors is here to help. Whether you're curious about testing, your results, or what’s right for you — we're just a message away.
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