Complex Persistent Cyst on left ovary

[Jenfromtheblock]

Hello, Had my third pelvic ultrasound within two years and the latest doc (second opinion) labeled my cyst as complex persistent. It shows a decrease in size thought since the last US a year and a half ago. Have an appt with doc tomorrow but sitting here in a fit of worry. I'm not big on any surgery, it doesn't cause pain...it's about 3.7cm. Any words of wisdom and advice is truly appreciated. I'm 45 and have two children. Hoping you're all well.
Thank you

[old_before_my_time]

From my experience of having a complex cyst and the research I have done before and since, I do not see anything that screams "complex." There is no mention of septations, papillary projections, thick, irregular walls, vascularization, free fluid in the pelvis. And your u/s shows NO vascularization (avascular) as well as NO free fluid. The hypoechoic and avascular traits would tend to point to an endometrioma.

Let us know what the doctor says tomorrow.

[Jenfromtheblock]

Thank you for replying. I will be seeing the doctor tomorrow but have the print out of the radiology pelvic ultrasound here.It says the :Left ovary: Hypoechoic avascular focus with uniform internal echoes measures 3.7x2.3x2.5, decreased since previous exam (10.8mL versus 24 mL). The left ovary measures 5.6x3.1x3.6cm. Ovarian volume is 32 ml. No free fluid; Impression: Left ovarian endometrioma has decreased in size since the previous exam.

I'm trying to make sense of it. Have been ignoring my family all day as I read and research it. The doctor's nurse called and said it was a complex persistent cyst.

[old_before_my_time]

I am sorry you are going through this. It's good that the cyst has shrunk. What does the ultrasound report say about its characteristics? MOST ovarian cysts, even complex ones, are benign. And if you do not have any predisposition for ovarian cancer then it is highly unlikely to be OC. The average woman's lifetime risk is less than 2% (1.4% per U.S. government statistics).

If surgery is needed, it is best to choose a surgeon who does many cystectomies because that will give you the best chance of keeping your ovary or at least as much ovarian tissue as possible. Removal of even one ovary can cause reduced hormone production and even a surgical type menopause. The ovaries of women with all their sex organs produce hormones into their 80's for good health and well-being.

The uterus, ovaries, and tubes have life-long non-reproductive functions. The uterus keeps the bladder and bowel in their proper positions. And the uterine ligaments are the structural supports for the pelvis. When those are severed, the pelvis "collapses" - spine compresses, hips widen, rib cage falls - which is why women who have had hysterectomies have shortened, thickened midsections and big bellies and tend to have back problems long-term.

Hope this helps!