Materials and methods The study is conducted within the scientific theoretical framework of hermeneutics, involving the overall concepts of health promotion and rehabilitation. The study will be carried out in 4 stages between September 2008 and September 2011. Stage 1: A health-related characterisation of Danish women with ovarian cancer through a registration process. Stage 2: Qualitative research interviews with patients, to gain knowledge about spontaneous preoperative coping strategies and resources.