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Epithelial tumors are the most common type of ovarian cancer comprising 85-90% of all ovarian cancers and are derived from the epithelial (outside) lining of the ovary. This tissue is contiguous with the tissue lining the remainder of the abdominal cavity- the peritoneum. Thus Primary Peritoneal Cancer is thought to either be the same, or at least very closely related to Epithelial Ovarian Cancer. This type of ovarian cancer predominates in the later decades of life, although is occasionally found in younger women as well.

Germ Cell ovarian cancers are derived from the same cells that form eggs for fertilization. Benign tumors from these cells (dermoid, or mature teratomas) even have the capability to form such tissues as teeth, skin, hair, etc. These cancers are more commonly found in younger women and girls. They tend to grow more rapidly and thus present with more symptoms than other types of ovarian cancer.

Sex Cord- Stromal tumors are derived either from the connective tissue holding the ovary together (fibromas or fibrosarcomas) or the cells that produce hormones from the ovary (granulosa or thecoma cells). These tumors may produce male hormones that cause hirsutism (male hair growth patterns), balding, acne, or deepening of the voice. They may also produce estrogen (female hormones) and can cause thickening of the lining of the uterus leading to pre-cancer (endometrial hyperplasia) or cancer (endometrial cancer) of the uterus as well.