Complex Ovarian Cyst

[sumar55]

I am 55 yrs old and have been menopausal for 5 yrs.  I went to the ER on 7/18 due to a sudden tremendous pain in my lower abdomen and back.  I had an ultrasound in the ER that resulted in a diagnosis of a ruptured ovarian cyst. I was given pain medications and referred to my GYN for follo-up ultrasound.  I saw my GYN 2 days later and she seemed unconcerned, but scheduled a follow-up in 6 weeks - 8/29.  Today my primary care doc called because she was reviewing my ER lab report and wanted to make sure I followed with my Gyn up on the Complex Ovarian Cyst on my left side.  She is very concerned about this cyst.  I have had stomach distress for many years including bloating but my former primary care doc told me the cause was IBS.  I also had severe pain from uterine fibroids until I went into menopause 5 yrs ago.  I never had children and am aware that this is a risk factor.  I'm very concerned becaue my Gyn doesn't seem to be factoring the fact that I am postmenopausal (her emphasis is OB).  Do you think I should I go to a Gyn Oncologist instead of following up with my regular Gyn.  Or am I over-reacting?

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Dear Sumar55,

I think the follow ultrasound will be the key piece of information. many cysts go away. if you continue to have a complex ovarian cyst, that can be an indication for surgical removal. You should ask your gyn about what her thought are after you have the report of the second ultrasound. It is good to be careful. if you feel that you are not getting enough information, a consultation with a gyn oncologist can be helpful
best wishes

Dear Redflames,
It is good that you have an appointment with a doctor. there are many possibilities for abdominal pain. these include - bowel, bladder, muscle strain, ovarian cysts.
Usually we start with an ultrasound to see if there is any change on the ovaries
best wishes

[redflames]

I have bloating and pain  like a sharp feeling on my right side. I have to see a Gyno on Monday and wonder what is he going to do to me. I had cancer and a histarectormy 11 years ago. Two years ago i had cyts on my ovaries and I don't know if they are gone yet. I have alot of pain and when I press on my right side it hurts so much more. What do you think this could be?