Medical Tourism Blog
Ovarian Cancer Risk Screening: Advanced Ovarian Cancer Screening Procedures in Korea
Table of contents
- Understanding Ovarian Cancer Screening and Risk Assessment
- Current Guidelines, Effectiveness, and Risks of Ovarian Cancer Screening
- Medical Procedures for Ovarian Cancer Screening
- Best Clinics in Korea for Ovarian Cancer Risk Screening
- Ovarian Cancer Screening in Korea for Medical Tourists
- Patient Experiences and Addressing Their Issues
- Conclusions
- References
Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!
Ovarian cancer risk screening focuses on trying to find cancer before any symptoms appear, with the hope of starting treatment early and improving outcomes. It’s important to note, though, that “screening” is not the same as “diagnostic testing.” Screening is for people without symptoms, while diagnostic tests are used if symptoms or specific concerns already exist. Currently, major medical organizations do not recommend routine ovarian cancer screening for average-risk women because current methods have serious limitations and can cause more harm than good.
Ovarian cancer can be tricky to catch early because its symptoms are vague and often missed, leading to late diagnoses when the cancer has already spread. As a result, the main advice for most women is to pay attention to symptoms and seek medical advice quickly. For those at high risk due to genetic mutations, targeted screening and preventive strategies are more relevant.
This guide explains what ovarian cancer risk screening involves, clarifies the differences between tests, reviews expert guidelines, and discusses what patients—especially international visitors to South Korea—need to know about practicalities and costs. With clear, evidence-based information, patients can work effectively with their healthcare teams.
Understanding Ovarian Cancer Screening and Risk Assessment
What is Ovarian Cancer Screening? Defining the Terms
Ovarian cancer screening is a process meant to catch cancer in people who don’t show any symptoms yet. The idea is that treating cancer early can make a big difference. Screening is for those without symptoms; if a screening test is abnormal, more testing is done to confirm whether cancer is actually present. Diagnostic tests, on the other hand, are used when someone already has symptoms or there’s a clear concern.
It’s common for people to want a “routine check for ovarian malignancy.” However, leading health groups advise against this for women at average risk due to the low effectiveness and risks of current methods. Instead, “ovarian cancer risk screening” or “risk assessment” is a more accurate description, as it focuses on finding those truly at higher risk.
There isn’t a simple public nickname for "routine ovarian cancer screening," like “mammogram” for breast cancer or “Pap test” for cervical cancer. This lack of a familiar term highlights how current screening methods aren’t accurate or beneficial enough to be widely recommended.
Common tests include:
- Pelvic exam
- Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS), sometimes called “pelvic ultrasound”
- CA-125 blood test (also “tumor marker test” or “cancer antigen 125 test”)
- BRCA gene testing or “genetic testing for ovarian cancer risk”
- ROMA score (Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm), which combines other test results
The lack of a general term for ovarian cancer screening reinforces that there’s no population-wide, effective early detection tool for asymptomatic women at this time.
The Silent Disease: Why Early Detection is Challenging
Ovarian cancer is often called a “silent disease” because its early symptoms—bloating, abdominal pain, trouble eating, and frequent urination—are vague and easily confused with everyday issues. As a result, only about 15% of ovarian cancers are found early.
When discovered at an early stage, ovarian cancer has a five-year survival rate over 90%, but in late stages, survival drops as low as 18%. Unfortunately, standard screening tools can't detect most of these early cases reliably, leading experts to recommend against routine screening for average-risk women. The gap between public expectations and the reality of current tests underscores the need for ongoing research and awareness of symptoms as the main actionable strategy for now.
Current Guidelines, Effectiveness, and Risks of Ovarian Cancer Screening
Official Recommendations from Leading Health Organizations
Top health bodies like the FDA, ACOG, USPSTF, and American Cancer Society all agree: routine ovarian cancer screening for average-risk, symptom-free women should not be done. Tests just aren’t reliable enough—there are too many false alarms and missed cases, causing more harm than benefit.
For women with high genetic risk, organizations may suggest surveillance with TVUS and CA-125 testing, but only after identifying risk through genetic testing and counseling.
The Critical Issue of False Results: Harms and Consequences
Screening tests for ovarian cancer suffer from both false positives and false negatives. False positives may lead to unnecessary, invasive follow-ups and surgeries—sometimes even causing avoidable complications. False negatives, meanwhile, give false reassurance and can dangerously delay a real diagnosis. Because of these issues, widespread screening for the general population could cause more harm than good.
Effectiveness of Current Screening Methods in Reducing Mortality
Despite hopes that early detection would save lives, studies show that current approaches like TVUS and CA-125 do not reduce ovarian cancer deaths among average-risk women. While catching cancer early does improve individual survival, routine use of these tests in healthy populations hasn’t translated into fewer deaths.
Medical Procedures for Ovarian Cancer Screening
This section breaks down current methods used in risk assessment and screening, how they work, and their limitations.
Physical Examination: The Pelvic Exam
A pelvic exam is a staple of gynecological care, involving manual examination of the reproductive organs. The doctor checks the uterus, ovaries, and nearby areas, first with a visual inspection (speculum) and then by feeling the organs with their hands.
While essential for overall health checks, pelvic exams rarely detect ovarian cancer at an early stage because tumors aren’t usually large enough to feel until advanced. So, while your doctor may perform a pelvic exam as part of a broader health check, it’s not effective on its own for finding early ovarian cancer in women without symptoms.
Imaging Techniques: Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS)
Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) uses a small probe inserted into the vagina to create images of the ovaries and surrounding structures. TVUS is good at detecting masses or changes in the ovaries.
However, TVUS often picks up benign (non-cancerous) growths, leading to false positives. This can cause worry and might lead to more tests, even surgery, that later turn out to be unnecessary. It can also miss early cancers, giving false negatives. Because of these challenges, routine TVUS screening isn’t recommended for women without symptoms.
Blood Tests: CA-125 and Other Biomarkers
A CA-125 blood test measures a protein that can be elevated in ovarian cancer but also rises with non-cancerous conditions like endometriosis, menstruation, or liver disease. Not all ovarian cancers cause high CA-125, especially in early stages, so the test can also miss cases (false negatives). Using CA-125 along with TVUS still doesn’t reduce deaths from ovarian cancer, so it’s not recommended for routine screening in average-risk women.
The HE4 test and the ROMA score (combining CA-125, HE4, and menopausal status) are more helpful for judging cancer risk if a woman already has an ovarian mass, not for screening the general population.
Genetic Testing for Inherited Risk
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that help repair DNA. If inherited mutations occur in these genes, a person’s lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancer rises. Genetic testing for BRCA mutations isn’t for everyone—it’s aimed at those with family history or risk factors.
The process involves counseling, a blood or saliva test, and follow-up to discuss results and next steps. A positive test doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get cancer, but it helps in making decisions about preventive measures like increased surveillance or even surgery (salpingo-oophorectomy) to lower risk.
Other conditions, such as Lynch syndrome, also increase ovarian cancer risk, and genetic testing may be recommended based on family history.
Key Ovarian Cancer Screening Procedures: Purpose, Method, and Limitations
| Procedure | Purpose/Detection Focus | Method | Key Limitations/Appropriate Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pelvic Exam | General gynecological health and organ assessment | Manual physical examination | Detects late-stage tumors; not effective for early stage |
| Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS) | Detecting ovarian masses/cysts and changes | Vaginal ultrasound probe | High false positives; doesn’t reduce deaths; not routine |
| CA-125 Blood Test | Measures cancer antigen 125 protein levels | Blood sample | Elevated by many benign conditions; misses cancers early |
| HE4/ROMA | Assesses malignancy risk in women with a known ovarian mass | Blood for markers, menopausal status | Not for general screening; for risk in existing masses |
| BRCA1/2 Genetic Testing | Identifies inherited gene mutations linked to high ovarian cancer risk | Blood or saliva for DNA testing | Finds risk not cancer; only for high-risk individuals |
Best Clinics in Korea for Ovarian Cancer Risk Screening
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for ovarian cancer risk screening:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| SH Clinic | Specialized women’s healthcare center in Sinsa, Seoul; all surgeries/procedures performed directly by a board-certified gynecologist (Minister of Health and Welfare commendation); comfort, privacy, and expertise prioritized; physician-led ovarian cancer risk screening with coordinated, multi-specialty care and personalized guidance | Ultrasound imaging; Pap smear; HPV testing |
| Daegu Spring Women's Clinic | Patient-centered women’s health hub in Dongseong-ro, Daegu; comprehensive screening programs (Basic, Detailed, Wedding, Menopause; dedicated Cervical Cancer Screening); robust general gynecology with continuity of care; pregnancy and contraception care; immunizations including cervical cancer vaccination; privacy, compassion, discretion; convenient central access; thorough, tailored check-ups and seamless follow-up (T. 053-716-7106) | Laser Center; vaginal pressure measurement; SonoCare; Vaginal ThermaLift |
| Cheongdam HIFU Clinic | Specialized gynecology center offering one-stop diagnosis and treatment for uterine and ovarian conditions; streamlined pathway from initial evaluation to personalized management; experienced medical staff and state-of-the-art technology; comprehensive non-surgical and surgical options; organ-preserving, targeted care via Ovarian Cyst Sclerotherapy Clinic and Endometriosis Sclerotherapy Clinic | HIFU for uterine fibroids and adenomyosis; laparoscopic surgery; Da Vinci robotic surgery; hysteroscopic surgery; ovarian cyst sclerotherapy; endometriosis sclerotherapy |
SH Clinic
SH Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul is a specialized medical center that brings together stem-cell science and comprehensive women’s healthcare under one roof. At our SH Gynecology Clinic, all surgeries and procedures are performed directly by a highly experienced, board-certified gynecologist, recognized with a commendation from the Minister of Health and Welfare. As a dedicated women’s care clinic, we prioritize comfort, privacy, and expertise for every patient.
For ovarian cancer risk screening, SH Clinic offers thorough, physician-led evaluations designed to support early detection and informed decision-making. Our program leverages ultrasound imaging alongside cervical cancer screening with Pap smears and HPV testing, ensuring a careful review of gynecologic health and timely follow-up when needed. Patients benefit from coordinated care within a multi-specialty center, combining advanced diagnostics with attentive, personalized guidance.
You can check out their website here: SH Clinic Website
Daegu Spring Women's Clinic
Daegu Spring Women's Clinic is a patient-centered women’s health hub in Dongseong-ro, Daegu, dedicated to high-quality care across every stage of life. With a comprehensive range of services—spanning routine screening, general gynecology, advanced procedures, and immunization—delivered by a team grounded in extensive clinical experience and ongoing research, the clinic provides a trusted foundation for proactive gynecologic health. For women in Korea seeking ovarian cancer risk screening and broader risk evaluation, its culture of thorough, tailored check-ups and seamless follow-up care makes it a standout choice. For inquiries or appointments, contact T. 053-716-7106.
- Comprehensive Women’s Health Screening Center: from Basic and Detailed check-ups to Wedding and Menopause screenings, plus dedicated Cervical Cancer Screening—structured programs that support early detection mindsets and individualized care plans
- Robust General Gynecology Center: expert evaluation and management of vaginitis/cystitis, menstrual disorders, abnormal uterine bleeding, menopausal changes, and Bartholin’s cysts—ensuring timely investigation of symptoms and continuity of care after any screening
- Advanced, modern capabilities: a specialized Laser Center and diagnostic tools such as vaginal pressure measurement, along with non-invasive treatments like SonoCare and Vaginal ThermaLift, reflecting technology-forward, minimally invasive care that informs tailored treatment pathways
- Full-spectrum women’s services in one place: pregnancy and contraception care, immunizations including cervical cancer vaccination, and life-stage–specific programs that facilitate long-term monitoring of gynecologic health
- Privacy, compassion, and discretion: a philosophy of considering every emotion and concern from the patient’s perspective, with safe, effective treatments supported by extensive clinical experience and continuous research
- Convenient access in central Daegu with coordinated services and clear follow-up pathways, making it easy to translate screening insights into action
Find more about this clinic here: Daegu Spring Women's Clinic Website
Cheongdam HIFU Clinic
Cheongdam HIFU Clinic is a specialized gynecology center offering one-stop diagnosis and treatment for uterine and ovarian conditions. For individuals seeking ovarian cancer risk screening in Korea, the clinic provides a streamlined pathway from initial evaluation to personalized management, guided by experienced medical staff and supported by state-of-the-art technology.
Its comprehensive capabilities span non-surgical and surgical care, ensuring tailored options when screening identifies concerns. Non-surgical treatments include HIFU for uterine fibroids and adenomyosis; minimally invasive and advanced procedures encompass laparoscopic surgery, Da Vinci robotic surgery, and hysteroscopic surgery. Specialized services such as the Ovarian Cyst Sclerotherapy Clinic and Endometriosis Sclerotherapy Clinic further enable targeted, organ-preserving care, allowing patients to move seamlessly from risk assessment to effective treatment when needed.
Find more about this clinic here: Cheongdam HIFU Clinic Website
Ovarian Cancer Screening in Korea for Medical Tourists
Process of Getting Procedure(s) in South Korea
South Korea is popular with international patients due to advanced hospitals, quick service, and affordable pricing. For ovarian cancer risk screening, the process usually begins with consultation and personalized risk assessment, often provided in English.
Procedures offered:
- Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS)
- Blood tests for CA-125 and HE4 (sometimes combined as the ROMA score)
- Pelvic exam and detailed review of medical and family history
- Genetic testing for BRCA1/2 if indicated
Tests are generally non-invasive with same-day or rapid results, and many clinics offer bundled packages. If abnormalities are found, patients can see specialists or arrange further care quickly.
Costs Associated with Ovarian Cancer Screening in South Korea
South Korea’s screening costs are lower than many Western countries:
| Service/Package | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) | $75 to $185 |
| CA-125 and HE4 blood tests | $75 to $185 |
| ROMA score analysis | $110 to $220 |
| BRCA gene testing | $370 to $750 |
| Full screening package | $220 to $450 |
| General range for screening | $85 to $255 |
Screening is typically not covered by insurance. Sedation or special requests may add additional charges.
Cost Comparison with Other Countries (Medical Tourist Perspective)
Compared to the US, UK, Thailand, Singapore, and Turkey, South Korea offers similar or better quality screening at significantly lower prices, often up to 70% less than Western countries. For example:
- In the US, a CA-125 test costs about $92, TVUS ranges from $108 to $375, and full screening packages in the UK can approach $890.
- Thailand and Singapore show wide variations, with high-end packages reaching over $2,400.
- South Korean screening bundles are generally far more affordable, making the country a favorable choice for medical tourists.
Patient Experiences and Addressing Their Issues
Real-World Patient Experiences with Ovarian Cancer Detection
Stories from patients reveal how easy it is to overlook ovarian cancer’s subtle symptoms. Jan Stojanovic felt bloated and full but sought care promptly, resulting in a timely diagnosis after a transvaginal ultrasound—though it was used for diagnosis, not screening. Nola ignored symptoms until participating in a trial blood test that identified her cancer. Many patients’ stories emphasize the importance of not ignoring persistent symptoms and the current lack of a simple population-level screening test.
How Detection Methods Address Patient Issues (Nuanced Perspective)
This guide clarifies that routine screening isn’t useful or recommended for most women, helping prevent unnecessary anxiety and procedures. For high-risk women, genetic testing and subsequent surveillance (or preventive surgery) provide clear, evidence-backed risk reduction strategies. For others, staying attuned to vague, persistent symptoms and acting quickly is vital. Diagnostic tests like TVUS and CA-125, while not for screening, remain essential tools once symptoms arise. Patient stories underline these realities and give hope about future innovations in early detection.
Conclusions
Ovarian cancer is challenging to detect early, due to subtle symptoms and current limits of screening methods. Leading organizations do not advise routine ovarian cancer screening for women at average risk, as tests like transvaginal ultrasound and CA-125 blood test are not reliable enough and may do more harm than good. The best current approach is symptom awareness and prompt medical attention. For those with inherited gene risks, genetic testing paired with targeted surveillance or preventive surgery offers the most benefit. For those seeking screening or diagnostic services abroad, South Korea provides outstanding care at much lower costs than Western countries.
References
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, [11](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cancer/expert-answers/ca-125/faq-20058528#:~:text=The%20cancer%20antigen%20125%20(CA,that%20you%20have%20ovarian%20cancer.), 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42
