The cancer of the ovaries is not very prevalent. However, it causes a higher number of deaths as compared to any other reproductive cancer in women. There are a few risk factors that aggravate your risk of developing it. Thus, the awareness of the risk factors and prevention tips for ovarian cancer can prevent fatalities. 

Risk factors
There is no knowledge of the cause of ovarian cancer. However, researchers have found a few risk factors that heighten your chances of developing ovarian cancer. These include: 

• Medical history
  If you have a history of breast, ovarian, colorectal, or fallopian tube cancer, your chances of developing ovarian cancer are significantly higher. Further, if you have been diagnosed with a few conditions associated with the reproductive system, you are more likely to get ovarian cancer. These include endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome. 

• Genetics
  If there have been cases of breast, ovarian, colorectal, or fallopian tube cancer in your family, then your chances of developing ovarian cancer are high. It is primarily because researchers have found a few genetic mutations, which are the cause of cancer. These mutations are passed on from the parent to their heirs. 

• Age
  The risk of developing ovarian cancer is more in older women. Usually, women get diagnosed with this cancer after menopause. It is a rare occurrence in women below the age of 40. 

• Reproductive history
  Women who use fertility drugs are more susceptible to developing ovarian cancer. On the other hand, the risk is lower in women using birth control measures. Further, women who have breastfed and been pregnant before having a reduced risk of ovarian cancer. Thus, in women who have never been pregnant, the risk is high. 

• Weight
  If you are overweight or have a BMI higher than 30, your risk of developing ovarian cancer is increased.

• Ethnicity
  The risk of ovarian cancer is highest in non-Hispanic white women, followed by Hispanic women and Black women.

Prevention
Unfortunately, there is no real way to prevent your chances of developing ovarian cancer. However, there are some ways to reduce it. 

• Take birth control pills
  It has been noted that women who consume birth control pills have a reduced risk of developing ovarian cancer. However, you must know that these contraceptives have their share of side-effects. So, before popping a pill, discuss it with your doctor. 

• Be aware of your risk factors
  If you or your family has a history of reproductive cancers, you should discuss it with your doctor. The doctor can determine the degree of risk in you. Further, in a few cases, the doctor will send you to a genetic counselor who will examine whether genetic testing is for you. People with a gene mutation have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. In this case, it is best to undergo surgery to remove your ovaries before time.

These are the common risk factors and prevention tips for ovarian cancer.