In short
If ovarian cancer is possible, a GP may order a CA125 blood test and a pelvic ultrasound. A raised CA125 has many causes besides cancer, including endometriosis and infection. A normal CA125 does not completely rule cancer out if symptoms continue. Go back to the GP if you are still unwell.
These tests start a pathway. They are not a yes-or-no home kit. Specialists may add CT, MRI and surgery.
What does CA125 measure?
CA125 can be raised in ovarian cancer, especially later-stage epithelial disease. It also rises in pregnancy, periods, fibroids and endometriosis. It is not used to screen well women at average risk.
What if tests are normal but symptoms continue?
Ask for a review. Persistent symptoms after normal tests still deserve another look.
Help a patient afford cancer care
Gifts go to the Cancer Emergency Appeal’s wider fund for patients who cannot pay. They do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Donate to cancer careWho needs closer surveillance?
BRCA1 and BRCA2 changes raise ovarian as well as breast cancer risk. Some women choose risk-reducing surgery after genetic counselling.
Key takeaways
- CA125 plus ultrasound is a GP first step, not a public screening programme.
- A raised CA125 has many non-cancer causes.
- Persistent symptoms after normal tests still deserve a second look.
- BRCA gene changes can mean extra options after counselling.
Care like this is out of reach for millions
The diagnosis, screening and treatment described here are routine in the UK. In Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia, poverty can put them out of reach. The Cancer Emergency Appeal raises funds towards clinically recommended care for patients who cannot pay; gifts go to the wider fund and do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy CA125 privately and skip the GP?
A number alone is easy to misread. Abnormal results still need a clinician who can examine you and arrange ultrasound.
Does a normal ultrasound mean I am fine?
It is reassuring but not perfect. If symptoms continue, ask the GP to think again.
Is there screening if my mother had ovarian cancer?
A GP can take a family history and refer to genetics if criteria are met. That is not a national screening programme.
Editorial summary of published sources. A named oncology clinician has not signed off this guide. Use it to prepare questions for your healthcare team, not to diagnose symptoms or choose treatment. Editorial responsibility: Kaiser Khan. Updated 4 October 2026.
What are the sources for this guide?
Follow the original guidance for its evidence, dates and limitations. General background references are not a clinical review of this page.