Two cysts the size of tangerines on my left ovary.

[LetsMango]

I am a 21 year old female and I have just been diagnosed with two cysts the size of tangerines on my left ovaries. I was experiencing excruciating pain on the left side of my pelvis and the doctor at the ER ordered an ultrasound. The transvaginal ultrasound confirmed that I have the cysts. I have been scheduled to see a gynecologist on Friday Feb 5.

What should I expect on this visit? The ER doctor mentioned the possibility of surgery. I have a follow-up ultrasound on Feb 23rd. What should I be asking my doctor? My head is spinning!

[viki310]

You should have the opportunity to speak with the surgeon before surgery and ask anything you want.

[TrudieC]

Yes you are likely a good candidate for laporascopy.  They can't tell about the ovary until they're in there and see how the cysts are attached.

[LetsMango]

This is the report I received after my second transvaginal ultrasound. I don't have an appointment with my gyno before my surgery on March 30th so I don't have the option to ask her questions (which I find ridiculous).  From what I understand though, I should be a good candidate for laparoscopy. Also that my left ovary should be left in tact? What do you think?

Size of right ovary: 2.4 x 2.3 x 1.4 cm
Left ovary: 6.4 x 6.1 x 3.0 cm
Two large anechoic cystic structures.
Size of cysts:
Cyst 1: 5.9 x 5.0 x 3.3 cm 50.9 cc
Cyst 2: 2.5 x 2.3 x 2.2 cm 6.6 cc

There is no evidence of uterine abnormality. The right ovary is normal  
in appearance. There is a septated cyst of the left ovary which is  
mostly unchanged from its appearance on Jan 26. There are no nodules  
or papillary projections. This is probably a benign ovarian neoplasms  
such as a cystadenoma. Follow up is advisable. There is no ascites.

[LetsMango]

Thank you for your answer Trudie :)

I had my doctor's appointment today with the gynecologist. I now have laparoscopy surgery booked for March 30th. My cysts are simple cysts (fluid filled) and are about 6 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm and 5 cm by 4 cm by 4 cm. She said that the risk of taking my ovary out is very low and that the surgery shouldn't turn into a laparotomy.

She also told me that she believes the reason I get pain "attacks" is that my cysts are causing my ovary to twist. They do this about once a day but then fix themselves.

I will keep you updated!

[TrudieC]

You want to ensure you find out what kind of cysts they are, what size, if surgery is required find out if it will be done laporascopically (3 tiny incisions and shorter recovery) or laporatomy (bikini cut and longer recovery).  For surgery, find out his rules for recovery (how long off work, driving, exercise, etc.), and if you are suffering from a lot of pain or anxiety ask him for something to help.  Do talk about future fertility and how surgery may or may not affect that and what can he do to help that situation.  Good luck and let us know how it goes.