normal transvaginal ultrasound

[missladay]

Can transvaginal ultrasounds definatively detect early stage ovarian cancer?

I have been having severe pain in my lower left abdomen, with swelling.  I'm used to really bad, never-ending periods, but after about 3 weeks of not being able to leave my heat pack and the couch, I realized it wasn't even normal for me.  About ten years ago, I was treated with Lupron for endometriosis, even after a perfectly clean laparoscopy, and became pregnant with my first (only) child shortly afterward.  Over the past few years, I've been accumulating a range of minor ailments, and went to have them each checked out at student health (I'm a grad student, age 28) as they appeared (vertigo, nausea/vomiting, fatigue, recurring swollen glands, joint pain, randomly loosing my voice).  I assume the doctors will find anything either serious or curable, so I have just been trying to adjust/get used to my body's quirks.  Also, after 15 years as a vegetarian, I started eating meat about 6 months ago because I've been having such upset stomachs I couldn't handle iron supplements and my periods have consistantly been lasting at least 10 days.  Tests over the past 2yrs revealed no allergies, no Lupus or other autoimmune diseases, no thyroid problems, and no lymphoma.

Because the pain and swelling persisted even after my last period ended, my doctor did a pelvic exam.  My left ovary, and left side in general, are EXTREMELY tender and the doctor noted swelling.  I am rather stoic, not liking to show emotions let alone cry, but I couldn't remain composed during the exam.  She scheduled me for a transvaginal ultrasound which, although my ovary appeared remarkably 'young', was again agony on the left side.  I have had many pelvic exams and a number of transvaginal ultrasounds, but I have never experienced pain like this.  Also, the discomfort has not been waxing and waning.  Maybe I am just getting exhausted from the pain and therefore not handling it as well, but it certainly feels like its getting worse.  I am one of those perpetually cheerfull, always find the silver-lining types, but this is really too much.  My petite 7 year old can't even sit on my lap while I read to her!

Although my grandmother had ovarian cancer (which her doctor didn't find until it was the size of a grapefruit!!! but luckily it had not spread) it doesn't seem like I am at high risk for ovarian cancer as I am only 28.  Also, my doctor thinks an abnormality would have shown up on the ultrasound.  Should I push for further testing to rule it out?   I started doing internet research to see if I could find any advice about managing the pain/self-care, etc, and nearly every page seemed to have warnings about ovarian cancer.  Any advice would be helpful.

[missladay]

Thank-you both for your comments.  I was definately hoping to be told not to worry, but instead you both helped me out by giving me what I need- the courage to stick up for myself and demand that I be taken seriously because what I'm feeling is not normal! I am scheduled for a ct scan tomorrow, but I can't get an appt. with a gynecologist until mid feb.  The nurse said I should call in everyday to check for cancellations, which I plan on doing.  Again, thank-you both and take care!

[Brownie3321]

Hello there. I don't want to scare you, just warn you...OVCA has no discriminations when it comes to age. Given your history, I would schedule more tests to rule out cancer. I'm only 27, no family history, and was dx with stage 3C ovca this past July. I had to have a total hysterectomy, bowel resection because the cancer spread to my stomach lining, lymph nodes and bowel. I would highly suggest more testing expecially with the pain you've had. Take care, and keep us posted - Deandra

[hotmomenay]

I feel the exact same way that you feel. After finding out that I had an Ovarian Cyst in my left ovary, 6.1cm, I have been so nervous. My mother and grandmother died of Ovarian Cancer. I have been having Sudden pain as if i'm im labor, sharp pains. Sometimes I have to stop when i'm walking because of it. I also have be having so much nausea and upset stomach and overall feeling sick. Sometimes i don't even want to eat. Well, after going to get a Transvaginal today, the tech says everything looks fine, there's no cyst or anything. I'm like how can that be. I'm still experiencing the same things. Maybe she is wrong. I need help as well.