Newbie with dermoid.

I have recently been diagnoised with a dermoid cyst on my left ovary measuring 4 x 6 cm, seen first by a CAT scan then verified with a transvaginal sonogram.

I am waiting to see the ob/gyn on March 25, that was the earliest I could get in.

I have had painful periods now for the last 3 years with abdomial pains and was to the doctors office about ever 6 mos until this cyst was discovered.
I have pain now 24/7 that is in my back down my leg, I have bloating and weight gain and am constantly tired all the time.
I am 37 years old and have completed my family.
What I need to know is how to be prepared when I do get to see the ob/gyn this month.
What will he suggest?
My mother had a total hyst. a few years back at the age of 59 due to fibroids and my sister had a total hyst. a year ago at the age of 43 due to fibroids also.
If I have surgery to remove the cyst will I just end up with more surgeries down the road?
My sister found this site which helped her through her hyst. and suggested I visit and am glad I am here.
She told me to tell the doctor to take it all out if they do the surgery which I am sure they will after all the research I have done on the net says dermoidd have to come out they will not go away on their own.
Anyone know of any forums on the internet dealing with dermoids ?
Thanks to any and all on this site that has any suggestions with my situation while I am waiting in pain to see the ob/gyn later this month.

Lori

Hi Lori,

I love your name, same as mine!!
You probably already know this, but:


Dermoid cysts are the result of an egg in your ovary that starts growing without having been fertilized by a sperm. These tumors or cysts are most often benign (noncancerous), but on rare occasions a cancer can be seen. The tumors contain developing skin, bone, nerves, hair and even teeth. In up to 25 percent of women, they are bilateral (present in both ovaries). Recurrence is rare but may certainly occur.

Not sure if it helps or not. Fibroids seem to be hereditary. If you are finished with babies, Insurance will pay, and you are not opposed to Surgery, go for it. A life without pain, worry or bleeding counts for something!! The fact thast you are questioning/posting means you have given it alot of thought. Let us know.
Lori

Hi Lori!

Dermoids are a little rare and kinda wierd, even to the medical community! My Dr. made an eww face when she told me mine was hairy--it was full of hair! But not malignant. Dermoids are something like 99% benign.

So if the scans have pretty well identified your cyst as dermoid, you shouldn't sweat the C word. (How's that for good news?)

Sometimes the Dr. can remove the dermoid from your ovary, leaving it (the ovary) intact. My first one was done that way.

But sometimes the dermoid apparently is so wrapped around the ovary they can't do much except take the whole thing out.

If you haven't had surgery before you may be a candidate for the laparscopic procedure--where they insert instruments through tiny cuts, remove the cyst, band-aid you and send you home when you wake up.

If your other ovary is fine, I imagine your doctor will not encourage you to have anything else removed unless you have other risks or problems going on. Women can function just fine with one ovary. And why mess with something that works? Of course only you can make that decision. That is something I learned when I had to make it.

If you do a search on "dermoid" here on hystersisters you'll find that there are a few of us around. Feel free to PM me if you have questions.

Anna