Hello everyone. I have not had time to type my profile, but will do so very soon. I am most interested in information from other members who have faced surgery for potential ovarian cancer.

I am scheduled for surgery in late Feb. to determine if an ovarian cyst is cancerous. I am post menopausal, mid 50's (almost) very concerned and getting more worried as I educate myself on this topic. A little information can be a dangerous thing.

As I research "ovarian cysts" I become more concerned and worried about the upcoming diagnosis. Other than my age and being post menopausal, my symptoms include a thickening or bloating abdomen, frequent urination, and lower back pain. The cyst itself (imaging via intra vaginal ultrasound) appears black (fluid filled) but with some white marbeling (my word) appearing in the center of the cyst from the top to the bottom, and also some whitening where it connects to the ovary. GYN says white appearance is the concern.

An initial CT scan 4 mos. ago revealed the cyst (I was experiencing severe abdominal pain, but was diagnosed with diverticulitis - no symptoms of this since) A second CT scan three months later revealed the cysts had grown slightly; it is now 3.5cm. When found, 3.2cm

I have elected to have the cyst removed. Duh! My GYN explained he will have a "Cancer Specialist ( I'm sure he meant Pathologist) standing by" for a biopsy, then go from there. Good news....remove and I go home the same day. Bad news....a complete hysterectomy and discussion of treatment options....ouch!

I would very much appreciate a reply from anyone who has experienced a similar life event. I am trying my best to remain optimistic (research shows "most" ovarian cysts are benign) but at the same time, I want to prepare myself for the possibility of a "C" word diagnosis and discussion.

Thank you for "listening." I look forward to reading your comments, suggestions, and personal experiences after work this evening.

Cheers.

Beachturtle

Dear Beach:

I am in a very similar situation. I have had an ovarian cyst removed on my right ovary and now one has been detected on my left..actually a cyst inside a cyst appearance. The other one was a dermoid and they just removed it but this one they are sending me to a oncology- gynocologist. They have me freaking out. I see the specialist this Friday but I don't know what to expect. I guess the appearance on the radiology report seems suspicious. I am just turning 50 this week and I'm not really sure I've been thru menopause because I had the other ovary removed and ablation done. I was told I was not in menopause yet but who knows.

Have you gotten any information from your doctors? I have tried not to do much reading about it but I am having pain (not unbearable) and running to the bathroom all the time. Have you found anything out about your situation. I will surely be praying for you.

If anyone has any information about these cyst please let me know. Its hard to remain calm when they just tell you it appears suspious.

Teri
tsirvine3@aol.com