WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for June, 1997: Re: Cyst?

Re: Cyst?

From: D. Ashley Hill, M.D. (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Wed, 25 Jun 1997 18:09:32 -0500 (CDT)

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At Wed, 25 Jun 1997, Dotti wrote: >
>I am 46 years old. Was diagnosed with ovarian cysts (both
>ovaries). Had cancer screen blood test, normal. Dr. submitted request
>to ins. co. for authorization to remove ovaries

Dotti-

Ovarian cysts are both common and confusing. Every normal menstruating woman actually has numerous, small cysts on her ovaries. These follicular cysts are a normal and physiologic event that produce a "dominant" cysts each month that releases an egg. If there are sperm hanging around, then pregnancy may occur. Otherwise, the cyst collapses on itself and the cycle starts all over again, with one lucky follicle becoming the one that releases the egg.

Cysts can cause pain, but, in my experience, this is not particularly common. If a cyst grows to, say, 6 cm or larger (roughly the size of a tennis ball) then it may either "pop" or twist upon itself or rub up against surrounding organs, causing discomfort or pain. They can also cause constipation or pain with intercourse. Most of the time, however, they probably come and go without us knowing about them. In some cases the cyst can be pathologic and due to increased size of pain must be removed. In a 46 year-old this *could* be cancer, but this is far less likely than one of the many benign cysts that occur in your age group.

A vaginal ultrasound will usually determine if the cyst is "simple" (clear) or "complex" (full of blood or other material) and will help determine if surgery is indicated. If the cysts are simple and relativley small, then observation with a follow up ultrasound is very reasonable. If large and complex, then either laparoscopy ("belly button surgery") or major surgery may be necessary.

A gynecologist will be able to help you sort out the complex issues surrounding ovarian cysts. Good luck with everything, and thank you for posting your important question.

Ashley

--
Ashley Hill
D. Ashley Hill, M.D.
Associate Director
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Florida Hospital Family Practice Residency
Orlando, FL
dahmd@gate.net

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