Ovarian Cancer or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?

Question

I'm a 30 y/o mom of 3.Family History:2 paternal aunts with OC before age 45, 1 paternal aunt with OC and BC, 2 paternal uncles w/colon cancer. Mom and maternal aunt had to have hysterectomies by age 25, unsure of reason. My History: DX with carcinoid in 2001.  History of frequent large cysts on left ovary. 2 c-sections resulting in dense adhesions involving ovaries, uterus and bladder.  Breast lump suspected to be either tumor or fibroadenoma for past year, scheduled for lumpectomy at end of month. Also had laporoscopic procedure to remove lg ovarian cyst and adhesion lysis in 2001. CA-125 at that time normal. No tissue sent to pathology. I have a history of cyst growth on l. ovary up to 8cm.  Usually they resolve on their own and I just wait out the pain. Sometimes a few days up to a few months.  This time is differnt.  For the past few weeks I have been EXTREMELY fatigued.  And generally feel as if I'm pregnant.  (I had my tubes cut and cauterized in 2003 with last c-section).  Have been having regular periods but with extremely heavy flow and lasting 7-8 days.  Also dealing with nausea, bloating and feeling of pressure that I can only relate to being 8-9 months pregnant.  I have been working out and despite losing weight and inches over the past year I have suddenly gained 4 lbs and 4 INCHES!! In my abdomen only.  All other measurements (waste, hips, etc) are all the same as a month ago.  I am scheduled Monday for US and CA-125. How do I avoid just being sent on my way with Advil again?  Last time I was told I had polycystic ovaries. Thanks! Melissa

ndc · Answer

My gynae's criteria for surgery was a) if he suspected the cysts etc were suspicious or b) if I were symptomatic to the extent that it affected my quality of life.  I have very similar symptoms to you and am due to have a laparoscopy 2 November for investigation.  During my consultation he said he would be happy to 'wait and see' 3-6 months as my age of 34 made it unlikely I would have ovarian cancer.  However, my response was that accepting it was unlikely to be anything sinister did not mean that I should have to be in pain, and on painkillers every day.  That this was unacceptable, and so he agreed that being symptomatic would qualify me for a lap, but have been given an 8 week wait.

Your personal history is different from mine (no ovarian cancer in the family) so I would definitely seek the advice of a gynae onco and stress that there are two distinct concerns 1) ovarian cancer given the family history and 2) being left in pain and ask her to deal with each separately.

Hope all goes well. Take care

Gatsby · Answer

Welcome!  I highly suggest that you see a gyn/onc.  They are specialists in women's gyn issues.  Although 99% of ovarian cysts, tumors and masses are benign...you really need to see the gyn/onc due to your family history.  As dian says here all the time "You only have one chance to get it right the first time".  Please seek the 2nd opinion from the gyn/onc.
~Tascha

Ovarian Cancer or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?

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