What to Expect After an Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis

Guidance and support through treatment and recovery.

Knowing what to expect after an ovarian cancer diagnosis can calm your fears and give you a sense of control. At Henry Ford Cancer, our ovarian cancer team is here for you every step of the way. 

Your team will include several doctors, nurses, dietitians, your personal support team and others. They are here to help with any needs or concerns that you and your personal support team may have.

Our cancer team is available 24/7. Call us at (888) 777-4167.

Your first clinic appointment

We understand that preparing for your first visit may be stressful. To help, we recommend that you bring with you: 

• Medical records and images related to your ovarian cancer diagnosis on CD, DVD, or other media, if you are a new patient to Henry Ford
• Driving and parking directions
• Comfortable clothing and a sweater or jacket
• Cell phone, mobile device, or laptop (Free wireless service is available)
• Snacks and drinks (Places to eat are available on our campus.)
• Magazines or a book to read

Personalized treatment

Although you may be seeing only a few physicians during your first visit, know that behind the scenes nearly a dozen or more specialists will be using their expertise to create a treatment plan tailored to your diagnosis and unique needs. 

A team of experts – called the tumor board – will work with you to decide the right course of action. During the weekly tumor board meetings, your case will be discussed by specialists from many fields to design the most effective treatment plan for you. 

Our tumor board includes experts from these medical fields:

After your treatment plan is created, our nurse coordinators will help you make all your necessary appointments. In addition to your medical needs, you will have access to a wide variety of supportive services to help reduce anxiety and stress.  

Preparing for surgery 

Ovarian cancer surgery may be part of your treatment plan. At Henry Ford, we are committed to providing excellent surgical care and follow-up services for all of our patients. We will communicate and support you through every step of your surgery preparation, recovery and follow up care so you know exactly what to expect. 

You will receive verbal and printed instructions about any blood tests or X-rays that may be required before surgery. Depending on your medical needs, your doctor may order antibiotics or anti-anxiety medications. If you have concerns about anesthesia, you may request to speak to the anesthesiologist before the day of your surgery.