National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (NBOCC)

Lymphoedema after ovarian cancer is a persistent swelling of the leg that occurs because of a build-up of fluid. If left untreated this build-up of fluid can be difficult to control.

Lymphoedema after ovarian cancer may be caused by damage to or removal of lymph nodes from the groin area or may be due to the cancer itself. However, many people who have lymph nodes removed or radiotherapy to the groin don’t develop the condition.

Lymphoedema usually develops gradually and can occur months or even years after treatment is finished. There’s no known cure for lymphoedema, but it can be managed with appropriate care.

Find out more about:

• Signs of lymphoedema
• Reducing the risk of lymphoedema
• Living with lymphoedema
• Questions to ask about lymphoedema
• Information in other languages
• Indigenous lymphoedema information