Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones. It often goes undetected in its early stages because symptoms can be vague, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in appetite. There are different types of ovarian cancer, with the most common being epithelial ovarian cancer, which starts in the outer layer of the ovaries. Risk factors include age, family history, and certain genetic mutations, such as those in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Early detection and treatment are crucial for better outcomes.