If you are transmasculine or non-binary then it’s important to be aware of your risk of ovarian cancer. If you have had your ovaries removed, your risk of ovarian cancer is significantly reduced but it is not completely eliminated.
Ovacome and OUTpatients are working in partnership to deliver ovarian cancer awareness in trans and non-binary communities.
Ovarian cancer signs and symptoms
The four most common signs of ovarian cancer are:
- Bloating that doesn't come and go
- Eating difficulty and feeling full more quickly
- Abdominal and pelvic pain you feel most days
- Toilet changes, in urination or bowel habits
If you have had the ovaries removed then your risk of ovarian cancer is significantly reduced. However, it is not completely eliminated as disease can develop in the peritoneum (a layer of tissue that lines the abdomen and organs inside it). You still need to be aware and see your GP if you experience symptoms that are new for you and persistent. There is no national screening programme for ovarian cancer, and other screening tests will not pick it up.
The thought of talking to a GP about ovarian cancer symptoms can be stressful. There is evidence that trans and non-binary communities face healthcare discrimination, so it can be especially worrying if you are registered as male at the surgery and expect to discuss your gender as part of the consultation. Click the button below to view our suggestions for how to make GP apppointments feel more comfortable. You can also get in touch with our support team if you’d find it helpful to discuss and plan what you want to say.
Your risk
Currently there is no conclusive evidence that trans men have a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
More information about risk factors, including genetic risk.
Testosterone hormone therapy
Currently there is no identified increased risk of ovarian cancer from taking testosterone hormone therapy (THT). A systematic review of evidence in 2018 concluded “Gender-affirming hormones have not been shown to affect cancer risk” but it identified a need for more research.
Where to get advice and support
Ovacome
Access information specifically written for transgender men, non-binary people, and intersex people about the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. We explain the tests and examinations you may be offered by your GP, and how to plan for these appointments to make them feel more comfortable. There are links to read experiences from trans men and a non-binary person's experience of being treated for ovarian cancer. We also have a list of useful organisations that can support you.
OUTpatients
A cancer support and advocacy charity for LGBTQ+ people affected by cancer.
Help us raise awareness by sharing our campaign poster
Trans and non-binary campaign poster
Illustrations by Jules Scheele (Jules Scheele Illustration) Instagram: @julesscheele
working in partnership with
