Oh my, so sorry you have been going through all this! A cyst of 5.6cm would typically be watched to see if it resolves on its own. However, you stated that your gastroenterologist said it hasn't shrunk at all. When was your last image (ultrasound?) to check it?
I am curious why your doctor is going to remove both ovaries and tubes (I assume keeping your uterus)? Ovarian cysts and tumors are almost always benign even after menopause.
The ovaries produce hormones a woman's whole life. Their removal even after menopause has been shown to do more harm than good. One study showed earlier mortality even if removed as late as age 75. Surgeons with good cystectomy skills can almost always remove just the cyst and save the ovary and its vital endocrine / hormonal functions. This is a good resource - https://web.archive.org/web/20181005231258/http:/ovaryresearch.com/ovarian_cysts.htm.
My organs were needlessly removed and I never could have imagined the effects.
I hope this helps!
Hi Dmgaylord,
Though our situations are different, I do have ovarian cyst all the time. I have an Endometrial Ablation 17 yes ago due to several reproductive issues (my post is at the top with full description). After having my Endometrial Ablation, I no longer have my periods, however I still feel a weighted tummy, bloating, cramping, and back aches. When women have their periods it's normal to get some functional cysts, but they should go away, I deal with mine and the severe pain that come with them for months and sometimes it's dibilitating pain that lasts for several months. Having ovarian cyst have caused me a HOST of issues over the years, including high cholesterol and when brought to the attention of my gyn, she says... They'll go away. And never mentions them again. I researched her for over a year because I needed someone I could trust, but I am again looking for someone else who can help me. My mother has diverticulitis as well and used to struggle with the same perpetual issues with ovarian cyst, however she is long over Menopause, but I remember the pain would bring her down to her knees. If you're 59, I would imagine you're over Menopause, so I believe having the ovaries removed may cause great comfort, but I am no doctor. Reading back at your post, I cannot help but wonder if the cysts are causing the UTI. I say that because, my ovaries are incredibly sensitive to aggravators (cysts); I had to eliminate every single aggravator I could think of and still research regularly. In April of 2019, I had a week of misery and had several ovarian cysts pop over the course of 2-3 days and struggled with UTIs and Yeast Infections. I took a look at my list and thought, "Ahh, I haven't yet eliminated sugar - of all sources." So, I found myself going Keto. Well, my symptoms we're almost 100% gone and I lost 28 pounds in less than 8 weeks. Now, I feel as though my body has gotten used to the Keto and my cysts came back and I have been in tremendous pain for a little over a year. So, Keto did work for the UTIs and Yeast Infections, but... Not so much for my cysts.
I apologize for the ever so lengthy post; I'm a new poster.. and always have a lot to say. I'm sorry.
