4 "significant" cysts on ovary

[jackaroo1223]

Hello! I'm pretty stressed over a pelvic ultrasound I had the other day. The tech said there were 4 "significant" (her word) cysts on my left ovary, that were not the functional cysts that come and go with ovulation. My right ovary was removed last year due to a large tumor on it, which was later diagnosed as borderline malignancy. Also, these developed rather quickly as I have been on birth control since March, and had a pelvic ultrasound around that time as well that was clear.

Due to only have one ovary left, what will my options be to deal with these "significant" cysts? I am on birth control, I am only 23 and do not have children but would like to some day. Will I be facing a laproscopic surgery? Laparatomy? Ovary removal?

I still have not heard from my doctor but I'm just anxious to find out what I might hear from her and how bad it will be.

[sarag123]

I think" significant" implies size only.  Given your history, I would think the doctor would want to remove the cysts, but perhaps the ovary could stay in tact.  Good luck to you! You are so young to have to face these decisions. I hope find some peace with this and have good supports.  All the best....:)

[TrudieC]

I would guess that it is a combination of size and type.

[jackaroo1223]

Thank you for your input. I have one other question- what would have been meant by "significant" cysts? Does that mean their size? Does it mean they are not purely fluid filled?

[TrudieC]

I'm so sorry you are so young and having to deal with this situation.  I do think there is a strong possibility they will want to take the other ovary due to your history.  Have a good talk with your doctor about possibly harvesting some eggs or at least to leave your uterus.  One of the ladies on the ovarian cancer forum is about to give birth using donor eggs.  She had them leave her uterus so she could do this.  Please let us know how your appointment goes.  You'll be in my thoughts and prayers.