Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

ovarian cysts-better to have surgery or 'wait and see?'

I was diagnoseed with cysts on both ovaries about 5 months ago. One cyst was originally about 4 cm and the other 5. My ob-gyn recommended a f/u ultrasound in 2 months and the cyst on the right ovary had grown to 6.9 cm. A CA125 was within normal limits. He said from the u/s results that he thinks they are simple cysts. He did not recommend bc pills because he believes they are not helpful with cysts that are already present, although he said they may help prevent new cysts. He wants to do another u/s in six months. I got a second opinion from a gynecological oncologist and he put me on bc pills and recommended a f/u ultrasound in 2 months. He also reassured me that he thinks these are simple cysts and he thinks it is safe to continue to monitor them. He did say that you can't be 100% certain that they aren't cancer without removing them but he is "as sure as he can be" that they aren't and does not recommend surgery. I have had no pain with these cysts. I'm 44 and haven't had any symptoms of menopause yet.  I have read many experiences on this forum-some people have done well with a "watch and see" approach and others have had their physicians recommend surgery with cysts of this size. I am confused about which approach is best. I don't want uncecessary surgery, especially since I am experiencing no symptoms, but don't want to "wait and see" and have it turn out to be cancer. Any information would be greatly appreciated!
6 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
At the age of only 16 I found out that I had an ovarian cyst on my right ovary at the size of an cantaloupe. My doctor insisted of geting surgery right away so I did.  They said they had no idea how come i got it becuase its very unusual for a girl my age to get one. After my surgery i was put on birth control to supossibly to prevent from another one coming.  Now at age 19 ive been noticing symptoms of another cyst, as in aches, felling weak, and i have notice my stomach is forming the same shape when i first had one but unfortately it looks bigger. An unusual symptom i have notice that i didnt have before is that ive skiped my period over 4 months now. I was wondering if there is anybody my age thats had one or does and i was also wondering if anyone has had an symptom of skipping your period when they found out that they had an cyst.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
So there's a possibility that the entire recovery time will be 2 weeks or less....That would be great!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I just had surgery on Friday (the 30th) for abdominal swelling and pain.  She removed my left ovary due to a cyst that was solid and wrapped around my ovary.  She did the procedure via laprascopic exploratory surgery.  I have 1 incision on my belly button and two below, off to the side.  I was told that I could go back to work at least half days on Tuesday, just a few days after the surgery.  I have been in bed since Friday and staying off my feet.  My period was due to start this coming Wednesday, but the surgery caused it to happen right away.  I think my body is making up for all the short, spotting periods I've been having.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I too have been diagnosed w/ a cyst on my left ovary (only one).
It's the size of a soft ball.
I went to the OB 2 weeks ago w/ pain in my left side. He did a sonogram and the CB120.  The blood test was within the normal limits so he wants to wait until Feb to do another sonogram to see if the cyst has grown.
A couple of weeks ago the pain was just a flutter, then it began to hurt w/ a nagging pain, now the pain has increased and it hurts on my entire left side, and sometimes I feel sick at my stomach.
I don't have objections to having surgery, I just need to know how long I'll be out of commission.
Thanks.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I too have cyst on myoveries and I have no pain but they are going to be removed on the 20th of january. One things for sure they dont no if they have cancer cells in them until they are out. I wouldnt chance letting them say in.
the one on my right overy started out small now its 25cms due to birth control(the depo shot)
I wish you would get them removed.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
A cyst 5cm now 6+ is very large, between an orange/grapefruit size.  Get another opinion.  Your ovaries could be removed through your belly buttom or vaginally.

What I keep reading from women is that they have so many aches and pains.
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Ovarian Cancer Community

Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Learn how to spot the warning signs of this “silent killer.”
Diet and digestion have more to do with cancer prevention than you may realize
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.
STIs are the most common cause of genital sores.