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Ovarian cancer happens when cells in or near your ovaries grow abnormally and out of control. The cancer cells can spread to other parts of your body.

The ovaries are two small glands, located on either side of your uterus. They make female sex hormones, and they store and release your eggs.

Some women who get ovarian cancer have a family history of breast cancer or they have inherited certain gene changes, such as BRCA. But many women with ovarian cancer have no risk factors.