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Ovarian Cancer (Expert Forum)
ovarian cyst growing in 2nd trmester
Answered by
Annekathryn Goodman, M.D. - Gynecologic Cancers, Complex Gynecologic, Surgeries, Palliative Care, Acupuncture
Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions and support regarding ovarian cancer issues, such as: Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Clinical Trials, Genetics, Hysterectomy,Immunotherapy, Ovarian Cancer Types, Radiation Therapy, Risk Factors, Screening, Staging, Surgery.
ovarian cyst growing in 2nd trmester
by anne12231, Jun 12, 2008 03:35PM
At week 19 I was diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, 9cmx5cm via US. At week 24, it had grown to 15cmx8cm. I have no pain associated with it. My OB wants to perform a laparotomy next week, but I'm concerned about the risks to the baby as well as the recovery from the midline incision. I've found some articles that state if my CA-125 levels are fine, and I continue to be asymptomatic, waiting to remove the cyst till birth may be an option. I've also read that laparoscopy can be performed as safely, with modifications for the fundal height and intrauterine pressure. Any advise about my options?
Doctor's Answer
by Annekathryn Goodman, M.D., Jun 14, 2008 10:03AM
, Jun 14, 2008 10:03AM
Hi There,
without seeing the ultrasound or knowing you, I can only make general comments. Your doctor's recommendations are sound. A cyst this size could cause pain, or twist as the pregnancy continues. The usual time for surgery is the second trimester. This is fairly safe but there is a small risk of miscarriage. (Nothing is ever totally without risk whether it is watchful waiting or doing surgery)
Laparoscopy in pregnancy has been done but there maybe be additional risks of putting carbon dioxide gas in the abdomen which pushes against the diaphragm and reducedsblood flow in your veins. I would defer to whatever your doctor thinks is the best surgical approach.
take care
without seeing the ultrasound or knowing you, I can only make general comments. Your doctor's recommendations are sound. A cyst this size could cause pain, or twist as the pregnancy continues. The usual time for surgery is the second trimester. This is fairly safe but there is a small risk of miscarriage. (Nothing is ever totally without risk whether it is watchful waiting or doing surgery)
Laparoscopy in pregnancy has been done but there maybe be additional risks of putting carbon dioxide gas in the abdomen which pushes against the diaphragm and reducedsblood flow in your veins. I would defer to whatever your doctor thinks is the best surgical approach.
take care
