Ok ladies, another nagging question. Free Pelvic Fluid what the heck is that?

[Mrs.Missy]

Can anyone tell what is free pelvic fluid? And is this anything to worry about?

Thanks for any Info.. that you can tell me. I just keeping thinking and wondering about what I have been told. Not knowing what it means is the worst!!!!

[rkk]

I don't have all the answers, but I do know that I have been told and read that free fluid in the cul de sac means you have cysts that are bursting that leaves the fluid.  I have it too and was told it is pretty normal.  I had it on 4 ultrasounds over the last 5 years and also had some when my laparoscopy was done last  week.  My docs act like it is nothing.  Good luck

[MickeyVicki]

There is a small amount of fluid that naturally occurs in the abdomen.   It is called "free fluid" because it is not contained in an organ nor is it contained in a cyst or mass. Its purpose, basically, is to lubricate the organs and tissues that rub and move against each other during the body's normal range of activities.   I believe I have read that no more than 9 or 10 ml of fluid is normal.

However, there can be more fluid, and there are a number of causes of excess free fluid.   <By the way, excess fluid is most commonly referred to as ascites.>  Liver disease is one cause, and is probably the most common cause of excess fluid in the abdomen.  Ovarian cancer is another cause, BUT simply having a  benign cyst or  cysts that have ruptured and spilled their contents can cause excess fluid.

So, if you doctor is not concerned, then  you most likely have a small amount of free fluid, and no other signs that would give the doctor the idea that you have any serious conditions.