Ovarian Cancer Marker (CA 125)
How to prepare
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
No special preparation needed.
Tell our phlebotomist about any medicines you take. Don't stop them without asking your doctor.
Wear a loose sleeve so the sample can be taken easily from your arm.
How it works
About this test
CA-125 is a protein that can be raised in ovarian cancer. It is mainly used to monitor treatment, and together with scans to check ovarian masses.
Why is this test done?
- Evaluate an ovarian cyst or mass
- Monitor ovarian cancer treatment
Symptoms — when should you get tested?
- Bloating or swelling of the belly
- Pelvic pain
- Feeling full quickly
- Change in bowel habits
Normal range
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, methods, age and sex. Always discuss your report with your doctor.
If your result is high
A raised CA-125 needs further evaluation — it can also rise in many non-cancer conditions.
Common reasons- Endometriosis
- Periods or pregnancy
- Fibroids or pelvic infection
- Ovarian cancer
How is the test done?
- 1Book online
Choose your slot for home collection or a visit to our centre.
- 2Blood sample taken
A trained phlebotomist takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm with a sealed, single-use needle. It takes about 2 minutes.
- 3Tested in our lab
Your barcoded sample is tested on automated machines with strict quality checks.
- 4Report on WhatsApp
A pathologist checks the result and the report reaches you on WhatsApp and email.
Frequently asked questions
No fasting is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Your report is usually ready in same day after the sample reaches our lab. We send it on WhatsApp and email, and you can also download it from the Reports page.
Please call our team to confirm whether home sample collection is available for your location and test.
This test needs a blood sample. No special preparation needed.