Large ovarian cyst...probably not cancer, right?

Question

I was just told by my new ob/gyn that I have a large ovarian cyst, >5cm. When he palpated my abdomen, he easily found it, and I moaned in pain. It still hurts from that exam! I have assumed the pain was from my severe and chronic irritable bowel syndrome, so I have simply popped a couple of Percocets and tried to ignore it.

I've had ovarian cysts before (once had laparoscopy to remove them), but never this big. I've had abdominal pain and bloating for a long time (assumed it was the IBS). I also have lost almost 50 lbs over the last year with very little effort (now am almost underweight, but that belly always looks a little big).

So, percentage-wise, how many of these types of cysts are cancerous? The doc told me to come back in 6 wks to see if it's shrunk, but I'm too anxious to wait. Should I call him tomorrow and say I want to get an ultrasound ASAP?

Answer 1

Actually, with one that is greater than 5 cm, I am suprised the Dr didn't ask for an US now. And even in 6 weeks, that quite a long time. Usually, a US is scheduled shortly after your next cycle. Even though you have had cysts in the past and have even had them removed before, 6 weeks is a long time. True, pre-menopausle women have a lower risk of ovarian cancer, it is not an impossibility. If it is causing you this much anxiety, talk to your Dr, tell them what you want. If they don't give it to you, find another Dr. Anxiety can amplify problems and cause other problems. Remember, the doctors work for you, not the other way around. Ask for the ultrasound now if it will put you at ease, or at the very least, get it scheduled right after your next cycle.

Answer 2

Unless you're having sudden or severe abdominal or pelvic pain or pain with a fever and vomiting, there's no need to get an ultrasound now. If it were me, I might return in 4 weeks if there had been no change at all (had not shrunk).

I understand that you are in pain and feeling very nervous about possible outcomes for this. Sometimes the only thing to do is just wait and hope things will turn out okay. You'll feel more empowered if you inform yourself about how and why this is occuring and what your options are in treating them.

You can read more about cysts, what kinds there are, and how they are treated, here:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ovarian...

The Mayo Clinic has an excellent reputation.

Answer 3

A large part of this depends on your age. If you are still pre-menopausal, the chances of this being cancerous is virtually zero. Most ovarian cysts occur when the ovary releases an egg and the follicular cyst that forms during the release does not collapse. They are normal, even very large ones, and it is common to have more than one cyst on an ovary at a time.

If you are post menopausal, ovarian cysts are more worrisome. Just based on what you said about your doctor's reaction, I'm guessing that you haven't gone through menopause.

On another note- do not ignore or self treat pain. Pain is your body's way of signaling a problem.

Answer 4

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