Ovarian cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer death among women. It has a poor prognosis, with five-year survival rates of 40 per cent. This article discusses early symptoms and treatments. It explores the management of disease, treatment-related symptoms and end of life care and provides practical guidance on ways in which cancer nurses can work in partnership with women to support and educate them to self-manage their symptoms where possible and deal with the challenges posed by their illness.