Recovery after ovary removal surgery?

[mcaudrey]

I am 41 with a strong family history of cancer. My mother had breast AND kidney cancer, and I recently lost my father to metastatic colorectal cancer. That being said, after having pain in the area of my left ovary, an ultasound found that I have "something" growing on my left ovary. A repeat ultrasound showed that it is growing, and I was giving the choice to leave it and "watch it" or have it removed. I did have a CA-125 blood test, which was "normal". However, given my experience with cancer, I feel it best to have my ovary removed and pathology done on the cyst/dermoid/mass growing on my ovary. To those of you who have had this surgery performed, I really would love to hear from the patients experience on what to expect during the recovery period. Thanks!

[claire99991]

Hiya i had a 10cm mass and my right ovary removed 2 and 1/2 weeks ago. I went into hospital the night before for a pre op assesment and went down to theatre at 11am the last time i remember seing the clock was 11.20am and i came round at 2pm. The surgeon tried to  do it thru the camera in my belly button but wasnt able to and had to cut me along my bikini line to remove them. I wont say it isnt painful because it is when you wake (although the pain killers soon sort that out) i had my catheter and drain removed on the saterday morning (operaion was thursday) and i started walking around sat the nurses also helped me to shower that day i went home sunday and over the past 2 weeks have got a bit better every day im now feeling 80% better and im pleased i had it out. Havent had any results from biopsy and its been 18 days but im only 23 and so they didnt think it was anything anyway so just need that confirming.

When is yor surgery? You will be fine and once back up on your feet will be pleased its out.

Good luck and take care xxx

[mcaudrey]

Thanks for sharing your experience, sounds like your on the mend, great! This will be my first surgery, even though they call it a laparotomy, it's still out of my comfort zone! My surgery is next Thursday, and I have a consultation with an anestheologist and my surgeon this Wed. It's been 18 days and no pathology report? How long did they say it would take?

[claire99991]

they said it would take 5-10 days and they would let me know if there was a problem so im really hoping there isnt since they havent been in touch.

Good luck you will be fine xxx

[libbyisi]

Hello -
I had an 8cm endometriosis removed along with my left ovary through laparotomy (vertical incision) at the beginning of January.  It was my first surgery too, and while I was nervous about it, I must say having that monster out of my body was worth it.  I was in the hospital overnight, went home the next day and was in quite a lot of pain during the first week...it took a lot of coaxing from my mom to get me to stand and walk, but everyday was significantly better than the one before. Being a fairly active person I got frustrated about my limitations but give yourself time and just know that you will recover and feel better than ever.   Anything else specific you were wondering about the recovery/surgery?  Keep us updated!  Best, Libby

[Kaerbear]

I had a laparotomy to remove a 30 cm ovarian cyst 6 weeks ago.  Yes, 30 cm!  It weighed 20 pounds and had over 6 litres of fluid in it.  They made a midline incision from my ribcage to below my belly button, about 11 inches, so it was a pretty major cut.  I was also 22 weeks pregnant at the time, so it was kinda scary.  My baby and I made it out just fine though.  I remember coming to in the recovery room and panicking a little because my throat was so sore and I couldn't swallow.  I felt like I was choking.  But they swabbed my tongue and I felt fine after that, then I realised I was in quite a bit of pain from the incision and I told them so they must have given me more drugs because it went away.  I had an epidural as well as general anesthesia, but I don't know if that is typical.  I think it may have been so I wouldn't have to have morphine because of the baby.  My partner stayed a few nights in the hospital with me and that was a huge help.  I had a lot of nausea every time I would get up and walk around and he was always there to help, handing me something to get sick in then taking it away and giving me a facecloth and a drink of water.  He was better than any of the nurses working there (or maybe just not as busy.)  Altogether it was a lot less painful than I thought it would be.  Moving around was hard at times and getting settled in when I would lie down was a bit painful, but once I was lying still for a while it was fine. You have to hold a pillow over your stomach when you cough or sneeze or whatever, even laughing was kinda hard.  I found that just giving myself the time to recover was the hardest because I wanted to get back to my routine after a couple of weeks.  You start to feel better and think you're all healed but when you try to do something you realise you still have a ways to go.  So, be patient with yourself.  Try to find someone who is patient and compassionate that will help you with housework or whatever.  Don't feel guilty for taking it easy and getting the rest you need.  Good luck!!

[Stretch63]

I had surgery in feb. for a small dermoid cyst, was in the hospital at 7 a.m. back home at 4. Took one pain pill in the evening and that was it. Discomfort from gas between shoulders, nothing bad just did not expect that. Waiting for the surgery was worse then the surgery...Best of luck to you! Hugs :)

[TealSupporter]

Hey McAudrey,

I had a mass removed along with my left ovary a few years ago. It was a big 4 lb benign mucinous (filled with junk) mass.

The surgery was done via C-section and my recovery time was probably a week before I felt up to going to college classes and what not.  I have to admit that for a year I didn't feel the same.  The tumor had pushed my organs all out of whack and the doctor said it would take time for them to come back into place and it did.

Like you I have a history with my sister Brittany having ovarian cancer and passing away from it.

I would definitely have the mass removed and do not "wait and watch".  

love,
megan
www.ovariancancerforum.com
www.brittanywaldrep.com

[Kaerbear]

Oh, I wanted to add, I didn't get my pathology back for over a month.  I had the surgery on the 23rd of March I think, and the doctor didn't call until the last day of April.  My cyst was serous (liquid filled) though and was very low risk so that may be why it took so long.  They had to remove it completely just to be sure and because I was pregnant and they didn't want to take the chance of leakage.  Also because it was gigantic and the baby couldn't grow properly.  The gyne-onc said they wouldn't know for sure what kind of cyst it was until it was out and they could examine it and that even if it was a serous cyst the fluid inside would be caustic and could cause peritonitis and possibly premature labour.  I wasn't given much of a choice in the matter but altogether I'm SO glad to have it out.  I feel so much better now.  I hope you feel better soon too.

[julie9]

Can you tell me the results of your one ovary removal surgery? Have you had recurrence of endometrioma? Are you on oral contraceptives?

[Roxanne610]

Hello,

OMG I am so happy I found you guys!!!  I am scheduled for surgery Wednesday to have my ovary removed and fallopian.  They are going to do the biopsy on the spot while I am open god for bid it is cancer they are going to have to do a full hysterectomy.

Needless to say IM TERRIFIED...The problem is I know too much about ovarian cancer, I have a business that helps cancer patients deal with the appearance related side effects from cancer treatments such as hairloss etc, and ovarian cancer is soooooooooooooooooooooo scary...

My tumor is solid but they do not know what it is, the gyno says he feels 97% its not but 1/2 percent is too much when dealing with ovarian.

So your in pain,,,,are you walking???

roxanne

[kat1706]

Hi everyone
I had a 10cm chocolate cyst removed from my left ovary on weds afternoon along with endo lesions from my bowel (out of hospital by thurs pm).
It was my 1st operation so i was a little scared of what was going to happen.
But for anyone who is about to go through with the surgery it's not as bad as you will think.
General anaestic was fine(thank god i wasn't sick).
I was originally down for a laporotomy but the surgeon decided to do it laporoscopically with due to my age (26) leaves fewer scars.
I have 4 small incisions very small , 1 goes into my belly button.
Recovery is slow for me though, i feel about 100 at the minute, the pain isn't the problem it just that you cant use your stomach muscles. You will feel very battered and bruised.
Apparently i can return to work in 1 wk but i doubt that at the mo!
Before the cyst was removed i would get terrible pains and it took ages to get it diagnosed so i'm so relieved it has been removed life goes on now!
Please dont worry if having surgery soon. Kat xxx

[Laura630]

I am 26 years old. I been battleing wit cysts on my left ovary now for about 6 years total. I would have them removed about every 2 years. The pain is insane at times. You all should know what I am talking about. Well I am going into surgery in one day. At first the doctor was just gonna remove it again but I decided enough was enough and I told him to just remove the ovary which he said he planned on doing as well anyway. So I guess it worked out well. I have had laproscopy's before for just the removel on the cyst. But what is the diffrence in the suregery when removeing the ovary? also is it one day? How long is recovery? My other one's were one day surgery's and very small incesions. And not much pain or discomfort. So I would love if someone could let me know. Also after having one ovary removed. Does your body change...like moods....periods.....etc......Thanks to anyone would could help me!

[full bloom]

Hi...my name is Rozanne..and Iam 32 years old .. I was only discharged 3 hours ago from the hospital after having my right ovary with a giant cyst sitting on it removed via laparotomy. I can honestly say..this was scarry....I prayed and my friends and family supported me all through this time ...especially my boyfriend S.....he is teriific and the nicest guy u will ever wanna meet. Anyho...i had the same type of surgery done 4 yrs ago after my doc found a small one sitting on my left ovary...now the frightening thing is that they found one on the left and now the right....and this has me confused..i just need to know y they are returning like this...I dont have any kids yet ...but plan 2 really soon ...as though it seems as though i dont have much time in which to do this..
what do u guys think of this situation ...I tried the alternative method of treatment ..but this proved unsucccessful ...how can i regain some sense of normalcy in my life again?...
H...E...L...P

[shanabee]

hi everyone!! just wanting to know if after having an ovary removed by surgrery are you out of the hospital the same day?

thanks Shannon

[Lynn63]

I had surgery (laproscopic) on 12/28 to remove both ovaries and the 2 cm cysts on them.  The path report finally came back a couple of days ago and the tumors turned out to be benign...thank God!  My surgery was outpatient....I was home the evening of surgery.  I had previously found that morphine doesn't touch pain for me and maybe this is why they did an epidural/spinal block.  I only took pain pills for 24 hours after getting home.  I have 2 very small incisions to either side and the biggest incision was from top to bottom of belly button.  I only took off the day of surgery (a Friday) and Monday...Tuesday was a holiday so I got to stay home that day too.  I went back to work on Wednesday and was fine.  I feel so much better to be free of pain and worry!  I didn't do anything the day after surgery but the following day I was up and around doing stuff around the house....I know I probably shouldn't have but I didn't lift anything heavy and still am not.  My belly button is still a little sore although almost completely healed now.  The pain was really not bad at all for me, but everyone is different.

Best of luck to you!
Lynn:)

[Marie3382]

I am a 25 year old female in fairly good health and just had a 3 in by 3 in(yes I said 3 inches by 3 inches) cyst removed from my right ovary on Friday, January 11, 2008.  I have been on birth control since I was about 14 for heavy periods.  I was traveling a lot and decided for 2 months (Aug & Sept) not to take my birth control but then went right back on it).  I went for an ultrasound on 9/21/07 and NO cysts.  In the middle of October, I went for my annual checkup and my doctor didn't feel anything.  I am just baffled that the type of cyst (corpus luteum) I had grew so fast.  Secondly, it's so rare to get cysts when you are on birth control since you don't ovulate.  Has anyone every had this type of cyst grow so fast?  Also, there seems to be a lump on the right side around the surgery area, is that normal swelling?

[travandboo]

Hello all... I am 39 and had my  surgery on 1/04...I'm so glad I found this website! It has been 3 weeks since my surgery and I have to say, all is well. My ovary was removed- My question is this...does anyone know if I will need estrogen...like the pill? I am getting night sweats and I am...frankly, a little "off center" lately...Is this only in my mind? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

[travandboo]

Hi shannon...yes...I was...I had mine removed "laproscopic"( I have NO idea how to spell that), but I was in hospital at 6am and at home by noon...HOWEVER...I was IN BED for 3-4 days...(meaning: walking only to the bathroom,etc...) and I moved pretty slowly for a couple of weeks...Has your doctor mentioned any after effects? I'm not sure if I will need the pill or any other hormones- will our other ovary just "kick in?" Good luck on your surgery- you will be just fine...trust me.

[Mary 53]

Hi,

First of all, to Marie3382 I am sorry but I don't have information to give you, but the people on this site are awesome and someone may be able to answer you, or actually, you might want to post again but start a new thread. I see these questions are attached to a post from last Spring. That would not make a huge difference really but why not start a new question/post. Also, that might bring more attention to your question.

And, while I think of it, to the recent posters, why not go blue? just go to the profile section on this site and enter as much or as little information as you want. It makes it sooo nice and easy to connect with others and to leave messages if you want. You can share info about yourself or say very little, but it is a nice way to feel a part of the community.

Travanboo, I wondered if you still have one remaing ovary left. Ok...may be a dumb question since you mentioned having an ovary out, and so logically you would have one left, no? Just checking. But, just know that any trauma to the body or any stress, etc, is going to cause some hormonal upheaval in most women, but I do understand your frustration not knowing for sure what is going on. I had everything taken out in 2000 and I do mean everything and not a word was said to me about the hormonal impact. In my case the oncologist put on a bioidentical estrogen patch the day after surgery and that was it. I had to do a ton of research to find out that I also needed testosterone and bio Progesterone just to feel better. But, in your case, once you have had time to heal and recover that other ovary should pick up the slack, so to speak.

I am the product of a couple (my Mom and Day :)) with only one ovary....but realizing you did not ask about fertility, again, that other ovary should take good care of you.

I do suggest you do some research (as you are now) and pick up some more information just in case things don't go as you have planned...in other words, what if in a few months you are not feeling like your old self?  Check out my Profile (just click on my name) and check out a few resources that might be helpful for you.

Good luck,

Mary

[Mary 53]

OK....Obviously I meant Mom and DAD :))   I have to start editing my work better and I do need to go to bed....

Night all!

Mary

[travandboo]

Thank you thank you for your words...I feel as if I have joined a group...How nice...Thanks...I will search the site more to "turn blue" lol...and will sit patiently and wait for my other ovary to kick in...I'm trying VERY hard not to be "OVA-SENSITIVE" get it?

[Mary 53]

OH....and a Someone who likes to make PUNS!!!!!!   I knew I liked you :)
I work with troubled Youth and it is so neat when they start coming up to me with word plays they have invented. Very cool and fun!

I think you are blue now....good for you. I resisted for awhile and I am not sure why I even resisted. But, now that I am blue (!) I certainly see the advantages. It is especially nice for this site since when you are hormonally challenged as I and others are from time to time even if supplementing with hormonal help, but for some of the wonderful women here who are on chemotherapy, it can be frustrating because the treatments often cause memory and focus problems. So it is so nice to just hit the blue, so to speak, and that helps to recall who has posted....you know, what their story is.

Thank you for posting back. Nice to know you saw this. I appreciate it!

Let me know if you have any other questions and I might be able to help or at least point out a few more resources. Or leave a message on my profile.

NOW....Now I am off to bed.

Sincerely, Mary

[Lee607]

Hi, I'm also new to this site.  I have had a total of 15 surgerys in 15 years.  I have a partial ovary that has functioned for the last 5 years.  It is true after a few days 4-5 they will kick in and start working.  Next week I will me having the remaining ovary removed along with bladder and urethea sling.  I have had severe pelvic floor pain and pain that radiates down inter thights, and low back pain  pressure when standing or sitting for any length of time.  I have urgent bladder pressure for the last 6 years.  I had problems with retained placenta and pelvic congestion (variciou veins) which led to a hysterectomy 5 years ago.  Things did improve, however I still have had this pain I decribed since than.  My urologist said I have a prolapsed bladder, he is waiting to do surgery on that until after this next surgery.  I'am discouraged thinking of going through another surgery!  Has anyone had anything similiar,

[dawnski]

I had my right ovary removed laproscopically on Friday via outpatient surgery.  While I do not have any pain, and have stopped all meds, I find that I am continuously nauseous.  Any thoughts?  It is driving me nuts.. Thanks....

[backtonorm]

Hi, I had a hysterectomy on Jan. 22 with part of my left ovary removed due to a cyst. I also had endometriosis. The other day, April 11 I started bleeding. I called the dr. and they told me to come in on Mon. The dr. done an ultrasound and found a 4 cm cyst and a lot of fluid on my left ovary. I'm scheduled to have my left ovary removed on tomorrow, Wed.
I'm wondering if I should have my right one removed also. This will make my 4th surgery since 2006. I just want to get back to a normal life without all the pelvic pain. Has anyone had such a problem as this and would like to share their experience with me?

[mimi136]

Hi I had a 6 cm cyst and my right ovary and tube removed on April 4th. I have endo and this was my second surgery in 5 months. I was really scared this time the cyst was semisolid but than God the biopsies were normal. The surgery itself isn't bad just take it easy afterwards. You are in my thoughts and prayers hope all goes well for you!  Take care Love Marie

[candiss]

I am having a 8cm cyst removed from my left ovary tmrw morning.. my Dr is also removing the left ovary and fallopian tube at the same time. I am scared...not sure what to expect after surgery? This "tumor" was found only 2 weeks ago, so I'm feeling slightly panicked about things happening so quickly. I had C-125 blood tests done , and have yet to get the results? Dr is confident the cyst is benign and is a serous/ mucinous cyst.

My husband and I are trying to have children( have been for 6 mths) I know the Dr said this surgery wont affect my chances of getting pregnant , in fact he assures me it will help?

Any comments... or words of advice for post op?

[1luv7797]

I had my right ovary removed on June 20th due to cyst. I had out patient surgery.   I really do not have a lot of pain.  I have no energy and my head feels cloudy.  Does anyone know how long does it take to feel normal?

[WolfeHall]

I had 7.7cm cyst removed 6/23...still having some pain and skin around stapes is getting red...should I be concerned?  Pan is much better....no Percacet today so far!  1st day narcodic free!  I go back to removed stapes on 7/3 and to hopefully get final pathology confirming benign status.

[montie2]

I had a tumor and ovary removed a year and a half ago.  I got out the same day and was feeling pretty good in a few days.  6 months later at 38 years old I ended up pregnant.  I guess having one ovary removed kicked the other one into gear!  

[TrudieC]

don't be concerned about the red - that is the healing.  It will feel so good once those staples are out!  So glad you're coming along well.

Take care,
Trudie

[MChristina333]

Thank you soo much for all of your information.
I have had endometriosis since i was 15 ..
I thought i was alone this whole time. I have already
had a lapriscopic surgery when i was 22 to clean out
the Endometrosis and Ovarian Cysts.
Although there was one cyst/tumor growing in the fallopin
tube at the entrance of the Ovary my doctor had left
it cause he thought that shots and birth control
would possibly reduce the cyst size and it would flush
out.. Well no luck.. so Now I  am in consistent pain
and will need to schedule surgery for a left ovary and fallopin
tube removal. The only horrible thing I remember from the 1st
surgery is the Gas in Shoulders.. Can you say OUCH!
so Wish me luck I will soon be pain less and I am just counting
down the DAYs =D

[tuskerbabe]

Hi all,I had a large dermoid cyst removed along with my right ovary and tube,on 7th july,I am now 3 weeks post op and still dont feel myself,I went to a&e on 5th with really bad pains and i mean bad,went to theatre on 7th,came home on 9th thinking well thats it now,its out of me I can get back to normal,how wrong was I.
        I was bleeding heavy after op,which nobody explained this would happen,I am tired all the time,still getting pains in my lower back and pelvic area,could someone tell me if this is normal,ive been very moody lately,which then makes me feel guilty towards my family.My husband has been so supportive and understanding but I get this niggly selfish voice in my head saying "you cant understand unless your a woman going through this"I know it does sound selfish,but im just so frustrated,i have so many questions unanswered,how long will i feel like this?,when do i go back to see doctor?why am I so moody and tired?,why do i get hot sweat just at night?,can anyone help please,any advice would be greatly welcome,I just want my life back for myself and my family.thanks for taking the time to read my troubles.

[Teg05]

i have a 10 cm cyst on my ovarie i have to meet with the doctor thursday to decide if i need the bikin cut surgery or the the thing with the camera im like really scared:(

[AnnKr]

Hi,
Do you definitely have to have it removed? Have you had a second opinion?  I have a 3.3cm cyst on my left ovary but had it last year and it shrunk after two months. Now, it's back again and I'm hoping it's a hormonal thing. I'm getting a second opinion on Sept. 8th.  I was just curious if you did too...

The best of luck
Ann

[SimplyStar]

a 10 cm  cyst needs to come out,  a scope will let the doc have a good look around,  might save some problems for you later.  the scope incisions are small, recovery is about 2 to 4 weeks,   good Luck  marty

[Ali55]

I  had a 7 inch diameter cyst and right ovary removed on mon 1st sept,the op went o.k and I was discharged the day after,I had slight bleeding for around 8 hours and suffered quite a bit of pain in my stomach/back and shoulders,on the Wed 3rd sept I was admitted into an N.H.S hospital due to coughing up blood and slight breathing problems,I had Blood tests, x.rays and cat scans on the wed and Thursday and eventually was released on the Friday ,the diagnosis being Base pneumonia and Traumatic tubelisation,the 1st I put down to being a smoker the 2nd I will find out tomorrow when I return to hospital for my post op consultation,however I seem to recall whilst coming round from the anesetic being told I had to be held down as I was trying to get up?So both my own fault it seems!
       It is now mon 8th sept and I have a niggling pain in my right side lower back and also my stomach is still painful and very swollen,However I do admit to hoovering and cleaning the kitchen floor today (it does my head in sitting around) however I wont be doing It again in a rush.I am 55 and assume It takes longer to recover with age and I really cant see me being back at work for at least another 2 weeks,I will ask my consultant tomorrow if it is normal at my age or is it that I really didn't get much initial recovery time with going back into hospital and having all the tests etc...and having to move beds 4 times in 2 days not much rest at all.
     However I am glad I had the op and hopefully the pain and discomfort I had prior to the op is now gone,one good thing is i haven't smoked since Wed,I realise as you get older op's get more serious and my smoking wont help plus I was scared when i went back into hospital and am now aware that smoking does affect,after smoking for 40+ years If I can do it anyone can,anyhow back to the laporoscopy anyone having one dont be put off however If you do smoke try to at least cut down before the op.

[Sandymac]

Hi,
    You might consider starting a new thread since this one is so old. Lots of folks might just disregard it for that reason..

     In any event, good luck and keep us posted,

Sandy

[Smilee4036]

I am recovering from Cyst and fallopian tupe surgery this past Wed. I have 15 staples along the bikini line. I am 54. I had a general for the surgery and the epidural that was put in prior to the surgery,the first 24hours. I used that old stand by "lamaze breathing" to control my pain after the epidural came out.I have a minimal amount of pain,but use that as a reminder to limit my activities and not overdo. I walked 1/2 mile in addition to my normal inhouse walking my 1st say home from the hospital. I increased it to a mile today.
Now for the shocker.I was told I had 5cm complex cysts over my right ovary and that the left  ovary had scattered cysts. I had the CA125test, Cat scans, abdom and transvaginal  ultrasounds(4 of them) over 2.5 months.Radiology sent the reports to the Surgeon who performed the surgery based on those "readings". Upon opening me up, the surgeron found that my ovaries were PERFECTLY NORMAL. they were in fact the size of shriveled up raisins( how they should look in a 54 year old).NO CYSTS. My right fallopian tube was enlarged but wasn't a problem( I had no symptons or pain prior to surgery).Soooo,,I am off work for 6 weeks for an unecessary surgery. Please please, get 2nd and 3rd opinions, just because someone has a medical degree,doesn't mean they can't miss something.

[ireneo]

Yikes, I'm so sorry you went through all that. So many risks. I'm surprised that they jumped right into surgery with a 5 cm cyst and some other (smaller?) cysts on the left side. 5 cm is kind of on the edge in terms of needing surgery. I don't see in your note how soon the surgery took place after they saw the cysts on US. So many women are told they have cysts and have to go back in 1-3 months to be scanned again.

I agree, it never hurts to get a second opinion. In my case I had a 10 cm cyst (I'm menopausal too). My doctor was going to do an open surgery and remove a bunch of stuff (I have a fibroid too) but she discussed it with another surgeon and changed her plan. She got her own second opinion. I ended up with a laparoscopy and healed up in a week. If only it was so easy for everyone.

[StephanieRanger]

I am considering having an ovarian cyst removed--both ovaries too because my sister died of ovarian cancer, and my grandfather and my niece died of colon cancer.  I read somewhere that there can be a connection between colon cancer and ovarian cancer--that is if blood relatives have colon cancer or ovarian cancer, there's more of a chance of someone getting ovarian cancer.  My cyst is probably the size of a quarter.  Two years ago, I had it.  Last year, the ultrasound didn't show it, and now this year it's back again.  What should I do?

StephanieRanger

[Laney8463]

Hi Steph,
first off, you should begin a new discussion as this one is very old. As far as the cyst issue, yes you are at an increased risk of ovarian cancer with a blood relative that has/had it. Also there is a link between certain types of colon cancer and ovarian cancer. With that said, there are also many cysts that come and go as a result of ovulation. 95% of cysts are benign, but with any family history of ovarian cancer, I would be keeping a close eye on things. Did they tell you what type of cyst you have? Check out the health pages, at the top right of this page and do some reading on the different kinds of ovarian cysts.
Let us know how you are doing
Laney

[ajsmith]

am needing surgery to remove both ovaries (cyst on the left)  sometime in february.   my concern is how long will it be for me to be up and about.  i will be able to stay with my brother & his family but i will eventually want to go home. i live alone with my cat.   will i be able to manuver stairs & be able to drive a week after surgery???

[chovary]

I had a 4 cm chocolate cyst removed from my left ovary and also half of the ovary removed last Friday. Also, they removed a 4 cm fibroid in the meantime. Not sure which one was causing the pain. I stayed in the hospital for two days and was able to get up and walk to the bathroom myself. It is now Tuesday and am able to walk around the house and up and down stairs to care for myself. Still taking it easy but I would imagine after a week you should be able to get around. I am not up to hitting the gym yet, but can defintely get around by myself.

[shellydine]

I just found site...had both ovareries and tubes removed 1/26.. and had uteras removed a couple of years ago...I can tell you each surgery is different...each person is different..take your time...stay off your feet as much as possible..but get up as soon as you can...i know that sounds crazy but if you take your time you will feel better every day and be able to go back to work etc the next week...the pain killers are strong....so be careful to not take them unless you need them...they will make you think you can do more than you should..have others help you and stock up on comfort food...and stool softeners you will need them...

[sunnykte]

Hi everyone,

I am a  47 year old who had a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy on 1/9 for complex ovarian cysts with solid nodules and various other cysts on the ovaries and in fallopian tubes.

I am wondering about hormone replacement....my dr. suggests prempro and I am just curious if anyone has had experience with this drug...there are so many pros and cons....I just felt I would like to hear some feedback.

thank you,
Kate.

This is a wonderful site...

[AGNP2110]

I am 32 now, I have had my right ovary and right fallopian tube removed 5 years ago. Due to a cyst that was a little smaller than a tennis ball. I am not involved intimately with males. I was told I didn't necesarily need birth control to regulate the cysts growth. I think that might have been wrong. Because I have had cysts removed 2 times since that. I have scar tissue all around my belly. I have recently decided I want to have children and was told yesterday thatmy ovary needs to be removed on the 4th. Because now I have an excess of fibroid tumors on my uterus and and all over the ovary. Including a conglomerate of cysts. I ws told kids would be out of the picture for me. This is only if when hes inside and the ovary can be saved in anyway. Then he can give me fertility pills to stimulate and increase the eggs. So they can be fertilized and later invitrod. Does this sound common, someone please help me. I don't want to believe I don't have hope. But I would like some thoughts. It surely makes me envious of the octuplet mother with the extra 6.Let me know ladies....Thank you, NPAG2110

[TrudieC]

I'm so sorry you are at such a difficult point.  My only suggestion to you is to get more than one opinion.  Perhaps there is a way they could harvest eggs while in there for surgery.

In the future, please create your own new posting when you have a question.  When you add on to an older posting people may believe it is just another response to the original poster and your question may get ignored.

Good luck and please keep us posted.

[wernerm]

I'm 39 and I just had Laproscopic surgery on Feb 13, 2009, check in at 5:45am and was home by 4pm. I think I could have stay a night but I had my husband to take care of me at home (thank goodness) I had several cysts removed from across my pelivic area , some chocolate, yellow, and clear in color ( from uterus, colon, intestines & ovaries) and my right ovary and falopiain tube  was removed and my bladder was lifted with a band in placed to hold it up. I also had the lining of my uterus removed and a bunch a scar tissue removed. A lot happening inside of me...It is day 5 and I'm moving around a lot better :). Still very sore and moving slow (hunched over )but feel much better. It really hurts to cough or laugh because everything shakes and I look very swallon. They went through my belly button but then had to do a 2" incision on my biniki line to remove my right ovary. Which was unexpected or planned. I hope by next week I can move or sleep with worrying about the pain. I had to patch for naseau which work very well and had a sore throat but it much better after a day or so. I didn't do well with the pain killer Percochet, so I started taking a half a dose if need to deal with the pain, but then quit taking it completely after the third day and used Aleeve instead because I has was having breathing problems from them. I'm getting antzy sitting around and cant wait to be myself again. I'm not planning on going back to work for another week and half after my Post-Opt Appt.

Best of Luck!

[Nelly_]

10 cm x 5 cm (almost 4 inches x 2 inches) deltoid cyst and one smaller cyst on the other ovary removed on Feb. 20, 2009 through laparoscopic surgery (about 1 week and 2 days ago) ----
IT WAS MY FIRST SURGERY EVER - I am 52 years old . . .

4 small (1-1.5 inch each) incisions: one for the camera above public bone, two near each of the ovaries for the tools and one through the navel to drag out the ovaries/gunk.

Operation took almost three hours instead of the 1-hour estimate;
The larger cyst had three teeth, one 2.5inch x 1/4 inch bone and
about six 2-3 inch long hairs; they gave me photos of the laparoscopic operation.

Post-Op nurse wanted to release me after 1.5 hours in her care even though I was groggy and didn't understand her at-home care instructions ("You'll have to tell my husband, but I'll sign the paper anyway").
So after putting my feet over the bed and sitting up, like she asked me to,
I told her I wasn't going anywhere and was able to stay for an additional much needed 2-hour rest period.

Throat was achy for about 6 hours after surgery, and I was parched for about 24-30 hours.

The Vicadin prescription of 2 pills every 6 hours makes you constipated-- best to eat 7-10 prunes before and after each meal.

The gas they inject into the belly to make for good workspace area, and the anesthesia,
was like a mega-doze of caffeine-city.
I was bloated for days, and I did not sleep at all for almost 40 hours after the operation.
Even though it was difficult to walk, you need to, in order to have your body rid itself from the gas/anesthesia in your circulation system (veins, lungs, etc).

They give you a "girdle" to wear around your waist, and I wore it for 6 days!

Get as many large pillows as you can in the bed, so can shift from one side to the other, without adjusting the pillows.

Within the first 6-12 hours, you need to rest and NOT MOVE your belly muscles much:  to sit up in bed, lock your arms around your helper's neck who will pull you up to sitting position.

Make sure you have a heating pad with adjustable heat settings and place on your belly, even when you don't need it.

Bedside table needs to be dedicated to just your stuff:
medicines, water (with a straw), TV/VCR remote controls, comb (for those unexpected visitors), large enough for your post-meal dishes.

Set your alarm (either clock or cell phone) for your medicine-taking. It BETTER to be ahead of the pain and not wait until you need it.

After 2 days of vicadin at max. dosage (2 pills very 6 hours),
I started cutting back gradually, e.g.,  1 vicadin every 6 hours;
then after two more days,   1 vicadin every 8 hours.
after 2 more days, 1 vicadin every 9 -10 hours.
After a week after surgery, I did not have to use vicadin anymore.
I am now just taking the motrin every 6-8 hours (only as needed)
and think I could be back at my desk next Friday, 2 weeks after surgery,
but since it is FRIDAY, I will take that day too and wait until Monday.

BEST WISHES to your speedy recovery.

Nelly from Berkeley, CA

[basil328]

In January my doctor sent me to a surgeon to discuss removal of my gallbladder.  After she examined me she sent me to the emergency room and they did a cat scan and found a large pelvic mass.  The ER called the next day and had me come back in for an ultra-sound and the doctor said they could not rule out a malignancy.  I am 45 years old.  They did the surgery within a week where they removed the ovaries and fallopian tubes and the mass.  The results were back while I was in the hospital and it turned out to be benign.  Leading up to the surgery was very scary because all of the medical staff were so concerned, which scared me!

I was supposed to go home the same day (laprosopy) but they ended up keeping me for 5 days because my vital signs tanked and I had to stay on oxygen.  This turned out to  be a blessing as I could receive pain killers via IV.

They immediately started me on estrogen and progesterone, and no side effects.  The hardest part of the surgery?  They put you on the maternity ward for recovery.  My roommate had a hysterectomy and it upset her too.  Not that you planned on having more kids, but when you know you can't, it's hard to hear babies crying.

The best thing I found is to talk about it, and not everyone in your family wants to hear about it.  So forums like this are great.  I just wanted others to know it's ok to be scared.  And don't lessen the importance of this just because it's benign.  You've still had a major life event!

[ruthie525]

Hi sunnykyte!  getting back to your hormone replacement question . . . I absolutely love my HRT (Climara Patch) and have not found any negative side effects. Of course, I had no choice but to take them because I was 30 when I had a radical hysterectomy with bi-lateral salpingo-oophorectomy.  Before the dr put me on the hormones, I wasn't able to sleep at all due to intense hot flashes. Was also very irritable, and even forgetful! The doctor put me on the lowest dosage possible then increased it as needed.  I feel great now! Don't hesitate to try it! It's also significantly improved the quality of my mom's life: )

[hakere]

its been really nice finding this forum and reading about it. i am 35 yrs old and have just been told i would need to have my right ovary and tube taken out. i have a 6 cm mass apparently. how do i feel? i guess its the waiting for the answeres that is the worst part. mine presented itself as recurrent urinary infections, in the course of the investigation i also discovered i was born with an ectopic kidney, it has certainly been an interetinng month, i am glad my child bearing years are behind me. i have had 3 cearsarians, so i am hoping the laparoscopy would not be worse than that. thanks for all your info. my husband is a doctor but has been pretty hopeless with providing me wit all the info i need.

[LizM0101]

I had a 10 cm dermoid cyst called a teratoma removed along with my right ovary about two months ago.  The procedure went fine and as far as i feel, i have recovered well.  I have a couple of questions about post surgery though.. its been about 8 weeks and my scar is still reddish.. the area around the scar is not red and is perfectly fine but the actual scar is still reddish.  the doctors told me that if the skin around the area was red i should be worried about infection, but how long did it take some of the rest of you for the redness of your scar to fade? Should i be worried if mines taking this long?  Also, was anyones menstruation cycle affected by the surgery?  Mine has become much much lighter, almost like spotting.  I went on the pill a couple weeks after surgery because it decreases the risk of growing another cyst, and I know this causes your period to became much lighter, but i was curious if it has anything to do with being one ovary short? If you guys have any answers or thoughts please let me know?

[Anakah]

I am 24 and just found out that the 8cm cyst the doctor had previously found two years ago has gone up almost four times in those two years, so now I have a cyst that is 31cm! I've had surgery before when I was thirteen and had my gallbladder removed.

I am very scared and the doctor said I may need surgery and cancer runs heavily in my family. She said she might try and put me on birth control to shrink it but would I just be better off having it removed? It mean, its HUGE, right? I tried taking yaz when she first found it but that made me unbelievably sick and I had to stop taking it. But she said a low dosage of something else may work. I am really scared.

The odd thing is, she seemed very aggressive about it and having to deal with it ASAP but yet my CT scan is scheduled a week away? Should I be scared? I still want kids and am afraid that this will affect that. And she said she'd fight like hell to save my ovary but that may have to be removed also.

[Anne92]

Hi

I am 41 years old and have been suffering with cysts on my ovaries for approximately the last 10 years on and off.  My last operation for cyst removal was 2 years ago and I also had a transcervical resection of the endometrium about 18 months ago.  I spent two weeks over christmas in hospital with severe pain caused by multiple ovarian cysts and have since been under a consultant who prescribed me with zolidex as he believes the multiple cysts are caused by massive oestrogen surges to my ovaries.  I have also had my tumor markers rechecked after a higher than normal reading, however I've been told that it's ok.  After 3 months on the medication, suffering badly from depression, I was taken off the medication.  The severe pain has immediately returned and I've just spent the last 5 days in bed on serious pain relief and unable to go to work.  I've been told by the consultant that I'm entering the menopause anyway - what I want is for him to take the ovaries away - I'm so fed up with feeling so awful, I really can't cope with this and it's consequences any longer.  Can I insist?

Anne
Cheshire

[shadow46]

Hi everyone,
I am so pleased I just found this site, like most people I wouldn't have looked ,except I have a problem, and reading through the posts has calmed me down, as I have been in a state of panic, I still don't know what is going on with me yet, just that I have a cystic mass with a couple of solid areas about 8cm x8cm x 7cm outside and above my uterus and cysts on my ovaries, and am waiting for a CT scan, Iam terrified as I have a little boy who is under  the hospital for lots of things and needs me, my imagination is running wild, as you will know, I find it almost impossible to take it in my stride , one day at a time, although that is what everyone keeps telling me.
reading your posts has made me feel less alone. thankyou for sharing.
all the very best to everyone.
Annie.

[lynnz86]

I had a 8 inch by 8 inch endometrioma removed june 16th, laparatomy my incision is about 6 inches long vertical going from my belly button all the way down. Im 22 yrs old and was very nervous for surgery but all turned out great. I recommend to everyone going into surgery to ask for a "scope patch" you will have ZERO nausea!!! It was great! The pain is kinda bad at first but everyday it gets better and better. Took me over a week to be able to stand up straight but Im now on the Lupron shot for 3 months to prevent anymore icky cysts from forming.

[NicoleRogers]

I am 39 Years old I had my left ovary and tube taken out along with an oblasion.  It has been three weeks and the pathologist just called and said everything was benign !! I am so thankful. It took me a good 2 weeks to feel better I am still weak. I started back very slow at the gym today!! I need to get my strength back I was exhausted!! I want all of you to know that for the last six months the pain from the cyst and endo on my left ovary was making me go insane!! I am serious that was incredible pain and my hormones were out of control I was starting to not be able to focus anymore.I run a company and have a busy schedule and the pain was so intense.  I went for a second opinion the first doctor wanted to "watch" it. After surgery my new doctor showed me the pictures the endo was so bad on the ovary.  When I woke up from surgery he also removed more endo it was the first time in along time I felt calm!! I told the doctor and I am sure you would all agree with me it makes your hormones unbalanced the surgery was the best thing i did!! My mom died of breast cancer when I was 6. It had nothing to do with this but I was not going to watch!! Thank you all for listening I will pray for each and everyone of you!!! Love Nicole PS We have to take our health care in our own hands!! =)

[laryt71]

Hi Nicole
what is the endo? I had surgery 6 days ago, removed my left ovary and a cyst from my fallopian tubes, but the pain is so intense i can't even walk, i have to be sitting down or restin in bed, in other words i cant walk or move much. Doc keep saying everyone heals diferent but this is too much i thing, the burning sensation is so painful i can feel it really bad, is killing me. I am beggining to think something is wrong there.  I am worry because i have to go back to work and my work is being on my feet for my whole shift and i am scared about the pain.

[NicoleRogers]

Good Morning
The pain  was alot for me for the first week also. If you are in that much pain keep
sleeping and laying down if you need another week go back to the doctor and tell them you need another week. DO not push yourself you cant help it all I could for the first week was go from the bed to the bathroom and that was it. I noticed some people are okay sooner I was Just not at all!! Dont worry you are just healing its going to take alot of time. It will be okay. Promise to take it easy you can only do what you can do!!
Smiles Nicole

[CEE136]

I WENT IN FOR SURGERY ON 7-10-09 TO REMOVE A CYST ON MY OVARY. ONCE INSIDE, IT WASN'T ON MY OVARY IT WAS A BIG ONE ON MY LEFT FALLOPIAN TUBE. THE TUBE WAS REMOVED ALONG WITH A SMALL CYST ON MY RIGHT OVARY. I'M STILL NOT FEELING 100% YET. I WENT BACK TO WORK IN 2 WEEKS, WHILE 2  PEOPLE I KNOW HAD THE SAME LAPAROSCOPIC PROCEDURE HAD TO TAKE IT EASY FOR 6 WEEKS. ANYONE WITH SOMETHING TO SHARE PLEASE E-MAIL ME...CEE_PERRO***@****

[Jojohs]

I am 30 and had surgery last week to remove a 10cm cyst on my left ovary with the added complication that I am also 16 weeks pregnant! I had an open surgery, but due to being pregnant the surgeon went for the old fashioned cut line of straight down from my belly button rather than the bikini line, so now have a lovely scar which originally was complete with 24 staples.

This was my second surgery as 5 weeks prior I was rushed into emergency surgery after the cyst pulled and twisted my ovary over to the right side so it was basically behind my right ovary. This was the most intense pain I have every experienced, but was grateful at the speed, along with care everyone took especially as it was a Saturday night. To maintain my pregnancy, and due to not being sure what they would find, at this surgery they only untwisted the ovary and I was told 2 days later that further surgery would be needed.

Despite the large scar I am healing well, test results have come back as negative for cancer, and my baby seems unworried by anything that has happened.

I am very grateful for the effort the doctors went to as I know they put in a lot of research and consulted many different people on which options were best. We are now looking forward to an un-eventful remainder to the pregnancy!

[kelli516]

just had both ovaries removed along with tubes and dr.cleaned up alot of adhesions on bowel and colon.Surgery started at 9am was in recovery 12 and on my way home by 3.Going into surgery had a hemmoraghic cyst rupture and was in more pain before surgery than after. I felt it was easier to heal knowing each day was better,before with the pain of cyst every day was the same.Im 10 days out and feel a little weak but am doing fine used pain pills for only first day. the best advise ive seen is the heating pad make sure you have one! It really helps elminate the shoulder pain.also my dr wont start me on hormones till 6 weeks,3 days out i was in full menopause started using black kohash and saw a huge difference in a few days hot flashes were relieved thank god  my advise if your done having children dont hesistate to have the ovaries out i suffered with pcos for 7 years because of the fear of the surgery,REALLY THE PAIN YOUR IN NOW IS WORSE!

[laur_S]

How can any one post after 3 hours of having surgury involving ovaries removed? That would be pretty painful.  There is a post above that says that and i must admit you must be pretty strong...  I had my ovary removed with my fallipian tubes and let me tell you i went right into menopause. which i could not stand  the heat that this gave me. If i have known this was going to happen to me..which i should of asked my doctor at the time but never thought about this question in the first place because i actually had to have an emergency operation because i hemmoraged at the time (sorry for the spelling) ..actually the doctor should of told me what to expect when this all took place and again it's my fault for not asking what to expect. After going on a Hormone Patch (Ville Dot. I got off it like in 2 months because i could not stand wearing it anymore..plus again my doctor suggested a short term use because she was pro active she tells me..I said great!  So i no longer use it  and plus the feed back from my doctor wasn't that good ..and then again i definately decided that i should of not even considered using this patch...but what else was there to help me with all the sweats at night and in the day and  on the job nothing worked that people were trying to tell me to take...My face would totally be  red after doing a job duty which was...so embarrassing!!!...So now i deal with this..with out any hormones that i'm scared to use...any other suggestions..beside Bio Hormone? I heard of that also...but it's so far away to talk to a doctor that is experienced in it, which makes me not want to even bother.. I am 52 and it's been 2 years now since i had this taken cared of ...I still have a problem being hot and it gets worse if i'm in extreme hot weather outside especially if i am like i said ..at my job..so embarrassing..Nothing works for me. Help.
Thanks for listening..
Laur

[jonsyaya]

Okay so here is my story.. In June of this year i was in the ER with serious pain on my right front side just about my hip..They did ultra sound and cat scan to find i have cyst on both ovaries.. my right was 7cm and my left one was 4cm.. Last Sunday i was yet again in the ER with Great Pain. They kept me over night with meds in IV and i finaly demanded the doctor to take me in and remove the cyst. Thank god i did come to find as he is inside that the great pain i had in june was actualy the weight of the cyst on my right ovary being to much and it twisted.. The ovary was decaying inside me my great pain i had last sunday was due to a large blood clot that i was bleeding from internaly so needless to say he removed my right ovary, tube, cyst and of course stopped my bleeding. I am ever so thankful for making him go in and get it out i am 5 days post opt now and feeling better each day. i will not lie it is painfull but such a breath of fresh air compared to the on going pain i have been facing over the last year! I still have my cyst on my left ovary and i am on Birth Control to help that shrink which is working. I am only 28yrs of age and slowly dealing with the loss chance of having children well the chances being slimmer that is. i do already have 2 beautiful children.

  Here are my questions to those who have had this done.. I am seriously emotional beyond doubt, i have been pretty down in the dumps i am sure its due to me not being able to do my normal things i am very active and have been on a weight loss journey this year losing thus far 76lbs i have yet another 30 to go and i have lost total since 2007 118lbs! so i am abit down not being able to workout.. and falling behind.. but also i have had such oily skin, its awful my face has been breaking out is this normal and if so how long does it take for my body to adjust to the hormone levels?

any help is nice.. ihope my story helped someone else. I do promise this surgery will so benifit you if you have been dealing with the constant pain of cyst.. it is slow to recover but so much better let me tell you ladies...

hugs to all
sarah

[Jellybeang1982]

I recently changed doctors and at my first annual visit he found a cyst on my right ovary.  He sent me for an ultra sound.   At this point (2 ultrasounds in) and my 5cm cyst has not gone down.  I have been on the pill for 8 years (I'm 26). My doctor sent me for a third ultra sound next month (so every month since July-Oct) an so far no change.  I had some abdomal pain and vomiting over the summer, and bad bloating for a year and a hald. I actually went to a gastrointrologist because of the bloating, but since August I haven't had much pain.  I met with the doctor after he did a cervical biopsy because my Pap also came back positive.  He said that if it doesn't go down by the beginning of October he wants to discuss removing the cyst because he doesn't think it is a normal cycle cyst.  I've never head surgery,my pap was positive, i've only been going to this doctor since July, and am very nervous especially because I am getting married soon.  Any comforting words or information about the procedure would be welcomed.

[Diane1964]

I had laparoscopy a week ago and am doing well.  Previously had 2 ultrasounds for ovarian cyst that wasn't going away.   I had 3 incisions inc. the belly-button one.  Surgery took 1 hr.  They removed approx 6 cm cyst and part of the ovary and fallopian tube.  Surgery started at 9 AM and I was home by noon!

The first night I should have stuck with the bland diet because I tried to eat a normal dinner and it all came up.  I took Percocet for the 1st two days (but very little) and then Ibuprofen and Tylenol for the 3rd day.  That was it for pain killers.  Gas/shoulder pain was gone after 24 hrs.  I was able to walk around/steps/etc next day but sore for a few days.  (Especially when laughing or coughing)!  Also, there was a bit more bruising then I expected.  

It's been a week now and I'm feeling pretty good, still a little sore here and there but not bad.  This was my first experience with laparoscopy and must say I'm pretty impressed.  Lots of photos were taken that I saw at my post-op and the solid portion of my cyst biopsy came back benign. I also found out at my post-op (and hadn't even known!) that I have endometriosis.  So I would def. recc. laparoscopy if possible, it's much less invasive than laparotomy and provides much info with a very quick recovery and little pain!

Try not to worry too much...it really wasn't bad at all.

Best wishes!!

[kymberlina]

I just had abdominal surgery to remove an ovary and a 20cm benign tumor. What a pain in my butt that was. They made a vertical incision about 6 -7 inches long streching from just above my belly button to my pelvic bone.
I understand the scare many have about going in for surgery and not knowing what will happen until after you wake up...will I have cancer? Will I be able to have kids? The what ifs are scary, but most of the time the odds are in your favor. I was in the hospital for three days, and on the second day my epidural was removed,  and then I was sent home. The first night was rough and I puked all over myself because of the side effects of the pain meds. ( Make sure you always have that pillow tightly against your stomach!). Today makes almost a week since surgery and I am able to get up and walk around or take a shower with much ease. Constipation is often a result of all the meds as well....that part stinks. You may not have a bowel movement for up to a week after surgery and once you do - what a relief!  

[maz10]

it is day 7 after removal of ovaries and f tubes.  I feel fine.  Did my first walk today (gently).  I had keyhole and am in my 50's.  Mother died of ovarian cancer so docs suggested to remove ovaries as already in menopause.
It was a day procedure and not much pain.  Just pain killers at night.

I think it is important to be physically fit before any surgery if you can.  Of course if you know your surgery is coming up, you can prepare for it.

All the best to anyone having this surgery.

[missmama11]

hey ,i was reading all this u all went thew i had cysts on my lrft ovary it was 5cm but when went doc was gone then went my right sidee bigg as hell like a babys head idk if there taken ovary or my cysts what do u think iamscard of it idk if i can have kids after wiill able too have them and what do u think about my ovary they taken or what .


  hollie let me no plesee

[maz10]

You are young and you certainly have big decisions to make!  I would certainly go and have a 2nd opinion before having anything so radical at your age.

All the best

[K_i_m]

Hello. I am scheduled for a laporatomy on Nov. 30th for removal of my 8 cm cyst on my right ovary and possible removal of the ovary. My concerns are that all of my labs have come back normal as far as for cancer markers (ie. CA 125), but my symptoms are fatigue, lower back pain, and urinary frequency (the cyst was discovered incidentally). I have read that these can be signs of ovarian cancer. I have a family history of cancer, my mother had uterine cancer at a young age, and I am still concerned about possible cancer. It seems, from what I have read of other's situation, you do not know if it is cancerous until the surgery is done. It weighs heavy on my mind, even though I know that most cysts are benign and my gyn feels that it is most likely benign.

I am also concerned because there is no gyn oncologist available because we are military and stationed overseas. If I request a gyn onc, I would have to go back to the states with my 2 small children, my husband would have to change duty stations temporarily, and have the surgery done there. It would just be too much, I think, and then my recovery would be more difficult for me as I would not have my own things or my own bed, couch, etc. I just want it out and soon. It is definitely a dilemma.

Kim

[thelmanlouise]

I had similar symptoms and feared the worst as I have a family history of ovarian cancer. Upon further research, I found that these same symptoms can also indicate an ovarian cyst.  The good thing is that you listened to your body and had it checked out. One of the hardest things is waiting!  I just had my ovaries and fallopian tubes removed because of a mass that didn't change after repeated ultrasounds.  I too had a low CA125, but particularly with a family cancer history, I was very, very scared.  Despite the odds that the cyst is benign, the possibility that it isn't benign is what you continually focus on.  I would be sure to ask when you will get the biopsy results back. Mine only took three days but others who have posted have had to wait much longer.  It was also very helpful to me to discuss my fears with my doctor and husband.  Take all of the emotional support that you can get! My own gyn did the surgery and said that I didn't need a gyn oncologist unless the biopsy came back positive.  My personal opinion is that an experienced gyn who does surgery is appropriate, but you have to feel comfortable with who your doctor is.  This is the time to be selfish.  If, after you think it through, you think it would be best to come back to the states, you should do it and not think about how it might inconvenience others.  Recovery from laproscopic surgery is much easier (I am a week + out and am gearing up to go back to work, though for shorter hours.)  I am post-menopausal so I fortunately don't have the hormonal adjustment to contend with.  You need to consider what your needs will be.  Do you have child care and household support where you are now or can you only get that if you go back home?  My husband stayed home from business travel to cook, clean etc because you really can't do that post surgery. I was also told not to lift anything over 10 lbs (and you can't pick things up off the floor).  I don't think I could have done that with young kids around. The more decisions you make, and the more information you have, the more you will feel in control.  Good luck with everything.

[Charlee00]

I am 70 yrs old.  The ultrasound showed one bad ovary and the doc wants to take out both and tubes.  Wondering if I should try to keep one, just for health reasons.  I sure wonder about the healing because I have already had a c-section years ago, and appendectomy.  Won't know about it being cancer until the operation is over.  Stressful as you know.

[K_i_m]

Thanks for the advice. My husband is taking off for 2 weeks and is not going to be deployed for a few months until I'm 100 percent. We have a lot of support from the community here with help with childcare, meals, household chores, etc. No one has their families around so we all try to take care of each other. I do feel more comfortable with my doctors here now--I have found that they are very experienced and have done many of these types of surgeries. I have made the decision to stay here to have it taken out. I'm still scared, guess it's normal. It's also hard to let go of everything and let someone else take control (when I am recovery). I'm just trying not to stress out too much.