Ovarian cyst

[PJ97]

Hi
About 13 years ago I had a growth on my left ovary called a venous plexis(sp?).  I had another ultra sound last month  because of some abdominal discomfort and was told that I have a complex cyst on the left ovary which is possibly a hemorrhage postmenopausal cyst, an endometrioma, or a neoplastic cyst.  It measures 2.6 cm in diameter.   I do not want to wait for a lot of testing.  I want both ovaries removed.  I'm 60 years old with a strong familyhistory of cancer.   Is my thought on this wise or should I consider further testing.  Do the ovaries have any benefits to me at my age?

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Dear PJ97,
thank you for your question.  If you have a family history of ovarian cancer, risk reducing surgery with the removal of both fallopian tubes and ovaries is reasonable.  Postmenoapusal ovaries do not seem to produce significant amounts of hormones. However, there will always be new information in the future and we may just not know enough about postmenopausal ovaries right now.
I agree with SassyBanjo - you should discuss your interest in risk reducing removal of the ovaries and tubes.
best wishes

Dear SassyBanjo,
I am sorry to hear about your pain. Those CA 125s are mildly abnormal. It is good that your have surgery set up.Please let us know what is found
take care

[Sassybanjo]

I am only 48 years old and was having abdominal, pelvic pains and constant bloating, incontinence and lower back pain. Only the incontinence and back pain has improved. Since the first of August, I have had an MRI, a CT scan, an endoscopy, colonoscopy, cystoscopy and two ultrasounds. My first GYN told me a 3 cm uterine fibroid was found, but could not be causing my symptoms and I need to wait for menopause. (I cried in your office because I was so discouraged that she didn't seem to care about what I was going through). The doctors still tell me I COULD have IBS. I have pain no matter what I eat. In fact, I don't eat every much because of the bloating. I look 5 months pregnant at 140 lbs and 5' 7".
I told the second GYN that if all my test come back normal, I was going to ask her to do a laparoscopy and take my uterus out, I have known I have adhesions for 14 years. My uterus is twisted and of course, I no longer need it. I was scheduled this week for the surgery that will be done on Nov. 6th.
I had two CA-125 test done and was told yesterday they were normal. I was told one was 86 and the other was 74. According to what I found on Web MD and other sites. A normal CA-125 test is LESS than 35. My GP did not tell me the truth about it and I no longer place my total faith in the medical profession. My GYN who is doing surgery told me my levels are abnormal but no to worry because I'm scheduled for surgery soon.
My advice is that you should do whatever you think you have to do to feel better again. Given your family history, your doctors should understand your concern. BTW, it is possible to get ovarian cancer once the ovaries are gone (because some cells are left behind), but the risk goes down CONSIDERABLY.
If you have a good insurance plan and you want the tests, ask for them. If your concern is getting rid of ovaries you no longer need, to lessen your risk of developing cancer, you have every right to ask for that. Your ovarian cysts alone is enough reason for the surgery. I had a cyst removed from my ovary over 14 years ago and that was the only reason for the surgery. The doctors won't refuse to do what you want, especially since you could sue them if you ever get ovarian cancer and they refused to remove them.

I wish you many blessings in making the right decision for you!

SassyBanjo