Complex Ovarian Cyst

[Kitty1969]

I am 39 and following an ultrasound scan, have just been told I have a complex ovarian cyst. I couldn't take in what the doctor was telling me as I think I was in shock.  I have had a blood test done for tumour markers and I have to go back for a repeat scan in 3 weeks. I am trying not to worry about this being cancer (although I am being realistic) but I think because of the size (5.5 cm), I will most likely face surgery if the cyst doesn't get smaller.  However, I am worried because the cyst is connected to the bowel and am frightened part of this will be removed aswell?

[MarieMichele]

It is possible.  I had a whole variety of bowel problems until my cyst was removed.  Now I am more normal than I have been in years.  It sounds like you could benefit greatly from surgery.

[Kitty1969]

Thank you for your comments. I am not overly worried and like you say, I am very hopeful it is benign.
The doctor who was giving me the ultrasound scan moved the cyst (which is solid) with his hand and could see on the scan that the bowel moved with it.  The only symptoms I have been suffering with (apart from bleeding between periods) are shooting pains, mainly in my bowel and particularly when I need to go to the loo.  I have suffered with Irritable Bowel Syndrome since I was 21 but I am now starting to question if some of my 'bowel issues' have actually been due to my ovary.

[MarieMichele]

It sounds like you will need surgery if it could be interfering with the bowel.  It still has an excellent chance of being benign.  Only a surgeon could explain what needs to be done.  Most likely it just means removing the cyst and detaching it from the bowel.  It might not really be attached but just pressed up against it (mine was like this).  I do not think they really know until they do surgery what the cyst is doing exactly.  I know it is next to impossible, but try not to worry.  Many of these things are just routine clean up surgeries and not life threatening situations.