Throughout the reproductive years the ovaries are producing hormones and eggs. The ovary is one of many organs in the body that can develop a cancer. This usually occurs after the menopause and is more likely if there is a history of ovarian cancer.

Symptoms from ovarian cancer tend to occur quite late in the disease when it is difficult to treat. Ultrasound has been able to detect early cancers, while they are still small and have not caused any symptoms.

Growth of a tumour requires the formation of new blood vessels. Colour doppler ultrasound can show these vessels and the blood flowing within them.