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With lifestyle changes, urbanization, and shifting priorities, more women are choosing to delay marriage and childbearing
Women who have never been pregnant, or who conceive their first child later in life, may face a higher likelihood of developing ovarian cancer compared to those who give birth at a younger age
Ovarian cancer, often referred to as the “silent killer,” is one of the most challenging gynecological cancers to detect early. With lifestyle changes, urbanization, and shifting priorities, more women are choosing to delay marriage and childbearing. This social trend raises an important medical question: does postponing parenthood increase the risk of ovarian cancer?
Dr. Sunita Tandulwadkar, HOD of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IVF and Endoscopy Centre, Ruby Hall Clinic Pune, and President of FOGSI, shares insights into this trend.
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Research suggests that reproductive choices and hormonal exposures play a crucial role in influencing ovarian cancer risk. Women who have never been pregnant, or who conceive their first child later in life, may face a higher likelihood of developing ovarian cancer compared to those who give birth at a younger age. This is primarily because ovulation, the monthly release of an egg exposes ovarian cells to repeated cycles of rupture and repair. The more ovulatory cycles a woman undergoes over her lifetime, the greater the chances of DNA damage and malignant transformation. Pregnancy and breastfeeding, on the other hand, suppress ovulation for extended periods, reducing cumulative ovarian exposure and lowering cancer risk.
Additionally, delayed parenthood often coincides with fewer pregnancies overall, another factor linked to increased risk. Studies also point out that long-term use of oral contraceptives may help counteract some of this risk, as these medications reduce the frequency of ovulation.
It is important to note, however, that ovarian cancer is multifactorial. Genetics (such as BRCA mutations), family history, obesity, endometriosis, and environmental influences also play significant roles. Delaying parenthood alone does not guarantee cancer development, but it may add to an individual’s overall risk profile.
For women who choose to delay motherhood, being aware of personal and family medical history, attending regular gynecological checkups, and considering preventive strategies such as oral contraceptive use or genetic counseling (if at risk) can help mitigate potential dangers.
In conclusion, while postponing parenthood does appear to increase ovarian cancer risk due to prolonged ovulatory exposure, it is only one of many contributing factors. Awareness, preventive healthcare, and timely medical intervention remain key to protecting women’s reproductive health in the modern age.
About the Author
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
September 17, 2025, 10:27 IST
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