suspected malignancy - seeking advice for complex ovarian mass during 1st trimester pregnancy

[iamjoyfull]

Keep this post active on the ovarian cancer forum.  I am posting here because I am being referred to a gyn/oncologist and malignancy is suspected in my case.

I am 36 and am 8 weeks 4 days pregnant and have just discovered through an US after cramping in my left side that my left ovary measures 3.5 x 2.2 x 2.7 cm and attached to this left ovary is a large complex solid and cystic mass in the left adnexa, measuring (5.4 x 2.4 x 5.4 cm) with evidence of a large mural nodularity, the largest of which measures (3.4x2.7x3.0 cm) There is no hypervascularity. The right ovary is unremarkable, measuring 4.7 x 2.4 x 3.2 cm.  No free fluid is identified.

I am being referred to a gyn/oncologist because malignancy is suspected.  

I am seeking additional advice to support the advice I have already received or explore alternative options for treatment.

I have a follow up ultrasound scheduled in one month to observe the cysts size.  If it has shrunk it is likely that it was blood clotting that was showing up on the US and the cyst will continue to shrink making this a functional, albiet unusual cyst.

If there is no size reduction or growth shown through the US I am being advised to have surgery in my second trimester of pregnancy to remove the cyst so that it can be checked for malignancy.

I would like to know what the risks are associated with waiting a few more months to see if the cyst will reduce in size.  What are the chances that a cyst will reduce in size? What is the optimal time to have an invasive procedure during gestation and why?  Are there any steps I can take to encourage size reduction or elimination naturally?  What is indicated by the observation of no free fluid is identified?  Is there anything I can do that is non-narcotic for the pain.  I am currently taking tylenol every 4 hours.

Are there any contraindications during pregnancy for the use of acupuncture to reduce the size of the cyst?

I appreciate your input and thank you in advance for your time.

[4afriend]

Cysts are commonly removed, if need be, at the second trimester because that is the safest time to do so for the baby.  Once a cyst gets to 5cm, if there isn't a size reduction, the cyst is usually removed due to the risk of twisting and causing even more problems.  Holding out longer to check on malignancy...I don't think I could do.  1.  could be later causing the baby harm 2. if its malignant it needs to be out 3. if it where malignant, there are some chemos which can be administered during the second and third trimester.  If I was getting a newborn and knew I had the chance of malignancy...I'd be going at it with all guns blazing...the sooner the better for you and the life you want with your newborn.  Sorry, but I know nothing about accupunture, so I can't offer you anything there.  Remember, most commonly, these cysts turn out to be benign, I know you said that its suspicious of malignancy, but lets just keep happy thoughts that you will be with the majority..and it ends up benign.  I just wanted to share these thoughts with you... the benefits of not waiting...best wishes

[iamjoyfull]

Are there any accreditations or affiliations I can check out in order to know the credentials are gung-ho?  I am not too familar with accupuncture credentials to tell if their  acceptable.

[golfgal911]

There are some acupuncture points that are contraindicated in pregnancy, but a certified practitioner would be aware of them.  Be sure to check credentials.  Good luck.

[iamjoyfull]

Thanks for the reply, I will be making some calls today to verify safety before beginning

[binkyb]

I am sorry to hear about your difficult situation and unfortunately I do not have a lot of information but as far as I know acupuncture should not have any contraindications for pregnancy. Good luck and keep in touch