WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for March, 2007: GYNECOLOGIC: Ovarian Cyst, Laparoscopy, and Gynecare Thermachoice

GYNECOLOGIC: Ovarian Cyst, Laparoscopy, and Gynecare Thermachoice

From: Michelle (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Thu, 29 Mar 2007 20:14:18 -0500 (CDT)

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Reply: William F. von Almen, II, MD, FACOG: "Re: GYNECOLOGIC: Ovarian Cyst, Laparoscopy, and Gynecare Thermachoice"

I just returned from the doctor and was told that I have a left ovarian cyst (seen on ultrasound). My doctor gave me 3 choices: 1)Observe the cyst for awhile, 2) start OCPs, or 3)have it removed laparoscopically. I have had ultrasounds in 2002, 2004, and now in 2007, all of which have shown a cyst on the left ovary. The problem is that these were done with 3 different doctors, so my previous ultrasound records are not available yet to my current physician (I signed a release of records but they had not arrived by my appointment today). I am, therefore, left to wonder if this is the same cyst that was seen in 2002 and 2004 or whether this is a new cyst. I am inclined to believe that this might be the same cyst as I know that I have had increasing pain on that side since 2002 (gradually getting worse and worse over the past 5 years)). If that is the case, then there does not seem to be any point in continuing to observe it. I also know that I have been on OCPs on and off for extended periods of time over the last 5 years, so I am also inclined to believe that if they haven't done the trick during that time, resuming them seems a poor option. I told my doctor I wanted the laparoscopy, but then I started to backslide a little as I started to think more about it. I have had one laparoscopy in 1997 for endometriosis. I started to wonder if I was being too rash in jumping to that option right away. I also started to get a little scared when he discussed doing the Gynecare Thermachoice procedure at the same time because I do also have extremely heavy periods and anemia.

Has anyone had both procedures at once? I guess it makes sense to do it while the patient is already under anesthesia, I am just a little frightened by the prospect of doing both at once.

I forgot to ask my doctor also if they removed just the cyst itself laparoscopically or whether it is the whole ovary. I have read that if you are over 40 (I'm 41) that it is better to remove the entire ovary.

My doctor is willing to schedule the procedures based on the current ultrasound findings, but I felt like I should probably compare the ultrasound with those done in the past. Now I am regretting that. I know I am in significant pain and have been for years, so I don't know if I am doing myself any favors by waiting.

Does anyone have any suggestions for me? I guess I feel a little guilty jumping right to the laparoscopy, like maybe I am not being rational and should be considering the conservative options. I guess I am just frustrated with feeling so much pain for so long.

Next message: yiddishkeit7: "UROGYNECOLOGY: bladder problems after having baby #5"
Previous message: josie: "Re: CHRONICPAIN: Severe Pelvic Pain with ovarian cyst - Any Info will be so appreciated"
Next in thread: William F. von Almen, II, MD, FACOG: "Re: GYNECOLOGIC: Ovarian Cyst, Laparoscopy, and Gynecare Thermachoice"
Reply: William F. von Almen, II, MD, FACOG: "Re: GYNECOLOGIC: Ovarian Cyst, Laparoscopy, and Gynecare Thermachoice"

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