Ovarian Cysts

[becky1972]

I have been having severe pains in my left abdomen since the beginning of Aug.  -- My last menstrual period was 07/10 -- I was finally diagnosed with two cysts in my left ovary (simple cyst) - with one measuring 1.4 & the other is measuring 1.9 in addition my left ovary is slightly enlarged.  However, I have now been to 3 doctors - (Primary Care, ER, OB/GYN) and the OB/GYN is sending me to a GI doc for a consult. I feel like I'm in the middle of the doctor shuffle. The GYN doc also prescribed Progesterone to "force" my menstrual cycle.  Apparently she wants to rule out anything GI first because "the cyst aren't large enough to be causing the discomfort I've been feeling"....Meanwhile I'm miserable:  I have back pain, cramping (like menstrual), burning pain that radiates from my ovary section to underneath my bottom rib.  Sex is impossible - lifting anything burns my abdomen and the pain is continuous.  I have lost 10 lbs already (which I didn't need to lose) because there just isn't enough room on my left side (at least that's how it feels - ie. bloating and fullness I guess) so everytime I eat it only gets fuller.  No previous GI problems in the past - no current GI problems now other than the fullness.  Any suggestions?  I am 34 years old and have not had any previous cysts to my knowledge.  I just want the pain to stop.......

[iamkcs]

Well, I'm only stating what I've been told after receiving 3 opinions.  Each concurred that this, by viewing the scans and ultrasounds, is a mature teratoma which is a benign tumor.  They also concur that it has at least one tooth.  Of course, I don't know if their knowledge is "special" in comparison to what other Dr's know, I am only relating what each has told me from the beginning based upon what they have seen.  I, of course, am not an expert.  If I've been given incorrect info, then that is my cross to bear.  I don't deny that there is a margin of error in medicine.  I am a therapist myself and realize that science is imperfect.  However, my only option is to have faith in the medical opinions I have received.  Thank you for your concern- take care.

[dian07]

How has it been determined that the tumor is "benign" ?  The only way I know that this conclusion can be reached is by biopsy ....do your physicians know something nobody else knows?
Peace.
dian

[iamkcs]

Sounds familiar!  The feelings you have described (bloating, discomfort after eating, etc..) are all too familiar.  I have been seeking the cause of my abdominal pain and bloating for two years.  My primary and GI came to the conclusion in Jan. 2005 that I must have IBS.  I accepted that and moved on, even though I wasn't entirely sure that was the case.  This past August, I went to my primary for pain in my back (kidney infection?).  She thought I was passing a stone and sent me to the ER.  It turns out that while I do have a small kidney stone, my pain is being caused by a 7cm benign tumor on my right ovary.  Many of my "stomach" symptoms are likely caused by this tumor.  The pain is in my back as well, because the tumor is pressing against my bladder.  I am scheduled for a laparotomy to remove the tumor and possibly my ovary in two weeks.  While I'm in for an uncomfortable recovery, I look forward to feeling better soon (It's been a LONG two years!).  I hope you get your answers quickly-  Good luck to you!

[lovely0870]

I have had pain in my right leg and pelvic area for about 6 months.  I finally went to my gynecologist who ordered a transpevlvic ultrasound and a regular xray for my leg pain.  I have not rec'd my pap results back yet but I did find out I have a "small cyst" on my left ovary.  I am confused why I do not have pain there.  The nurse told me in three months they will send me paperwork to go have another ultrasound. I became very nervous since she told me the pap I had done on Aug 30 have not come back yet and that does not mean it is bad or good news!
My leg pain is terrible to bear. My primary dr. just gave me vicodin to deal with the pain.  He said I am too young to have ovarian cancer.  I am 36! My 1/2 sister died of breat cancer at the age of 31, 10 years ago.  
Does leg pain go with the cysts or cancer?  Does anyone know? I keep asking what is causing this pain.  The drs. aren't sure.
Any help would be great.

[becky1972]

Thanks for the comments -- one more quick question -- during my CAT scan - the radiologist (in ER) indicated my pelvic blood vessels were enlarged.  Does anyone know if this is related?

[Gatsby]

HI and welcome to the site.  GI problems are a common symptom of ovarian cysts.  I would highly suggest that you get a 2nd opinion from a gyn/onc.  They are specialists in womens gyn issues and have seen it all.  You should not get the run around with a gyn/onc.  Although 99% of ovarian cysts are benign, you need medical attention.  Do not ignore your symptoms.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.  Godspeed
~Tascha