To Keep or Not To Keep

I am 21. I just got word back from my OB that I have a 8cm hemmoragic cyst on my right ovary and extensive endometriosis. My OB has said that she's taking the ovarywith the cyst and is recommending the uterus and cervix out also. I am pretty set on having the cyst/ovary and uterus out but I'm not sure about keeping or not keeping the other ovary?
Some of my history is
-16 diagnosed with IBS after complaints of reaccuring abdominal pain

-20 in the ER 3 times in 6 months for what is now believed to be ruptured ovarian cysts

-21 in for a lap - yet another cyst is found and proper diagnosis of endometriosis.

I'm trying to figure out if I should just have the other ovary out or if I should keep it? Any Ideas... right now I'm scheduled for surgery 01/30/02

Hiya Speedy!

What does your doctor think about keeping the other ovary? I personally believe if it is healthy, keep it. You will enjoy the hormone benefits the remaining one can provide you. I don't know if the other ovary will have a tendency toward cysts anyway, and if it does, you may just end up with more surgery. I also have experienced ruptured cysts and opted to keep mine, but it is a personal decision only you can make of course. Certainly a good discussion to have with your doctor! Good luck to you!

I am 25 years old and have severe endometriosis. My doctor told me that both ovaries will be going because of the endo.

I did some research on endo and found a website that had some great info. They try to sell a book but the info I got out of that website (which is actually excerpts from the book) really made a lot of sense and explained a lot of things about my condition. The website is www.gynsecondopinion.com.

As far as keeping your ovaries I would definately ask the doctor if the hormones the ovaries keep putting out will prevent the lesions (endometriosis lesions) from going away as I have heard that a hysterectomy may not involve removing all of the endometriosis.

Good Luck with your surgery and don't let anyone tell you that you are too young!

Tiffany

Hi,

I would talk to your doctor about your concerns regarding the ovary. I personally would keep it if its healthy. This way you will go through menopause without having to take the HRT meds.

Kelly