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Ovarian cancer can run in families, meaning it can be hereditary. While most ovarian cancers are sporadic, a significant minority are caused by inherited gene mutations that increase a person’s risk (Embryo Screening and Hereditary Cancer).

Genetic Mutations and Hereditary Ovarian Cancer

The most well-known genetic cause of hereditary ovarian cancer is a mutation in the BRCA1,  BRCA2 or Lynch syndrome genes (How Genetics Impact Cancer Diagnoses). Inheriting a harmful variant in either of these genes increases a woman’s lifetime risk of ovarian cancer (as well as breast cancer) (How can Orchid tell me about an embryo’s future risk for cancer?).

Family History and Ovarian Cancer Risk

A strong family history of ovarian or related cancers is a key indicator of elevated genetic risk (How Genetics Impact Cancer Diagnoses). For example, having a mother, sister, or several relatives diagnosed with ovarian cancer may signal that a hereditary mutation is present. In such cases, genetic counseling and testing can confirm whether a BRCA or other cancer-risk gene is involved and guide proactive steps to manage the risk. Discussing these concerns with clinicians and genetic counselors can often identify families at risk and allow further testing.