Six months pregnant with 13 cm cyst

[tlnoles]

In January I was told I had a 9x9 cm dermoid cyst on my right ovary. It had begin to grow at a very slow rate and I was scheduled for surgery in May. I received a phone call with the doctor telling me the surgery was off because I was pregnant. On my next appointment she told me that they weren't going to take the cyst out until it came time for me to deliver,which will be in January. They are going to do a c-section and remove the baby and the cyst at the same time. I am now 6 months pregnant and my cyst is growing at the rate of about 1 1/2 cm per month. It is now over 13 cm! It seems at over 13cm, the cyst is very potentially harmful to both me and the baby. What happens if the cyst bursts? What are the risks of having my baby vaginally if I choose to, considering how large the cyst is? Also, are than any other options besides a c-section because I don't want any future pregnancies to have to be done by c-section? Thanks

[MarieMichele]

Try not to think of the "what ifs".  The cyst will probably remain until it is time to remove it.  I think large cysts can complicate a normal delivery which is why they want to do a c-section.  They need to make an incision anyway to get that cyst out.  If anything might cause that cyst to burst, it might be all the drama and pushing of labor.

Many woman can have normal deliveries after having a prior c-section.  Ask your doctor regarding that.  You should also ask about all your other questions as well.  They obviously know that it is now at 13 cm....are they still planning a January c-section and cyst removal even with that updated information?

They can perform successful cyst surgeries once you are in the second trimester.  Did they mention that possibility?  

It's a lot to worry about and I can only imagine how hard this is for you to deal with at such an important time in your life.

[tlnoles]

My doctor never mentions anything. :) As far as I know, we are still scheduled for a c-section. I just want my baby to be as safe as possible. Thanks for your reply.