Cysts on ovaries

Body: 

What's anyone's opinion of removing ovaries with cysts and Fallopian tubes to have piece of mind not to get cervical cancer. I am 70, so way past menopause. I told gynecologist I do not want a hysterectomy.

I don't have any answer for this, I'm just trying to keep the topic visible in case someone else wants to comment. Does removing the ovaries and Fallopian tubes prevent cervical cancer? Honestly if that is the case....I did not know it. Are the cysts causing you big problems? Can you just have them removed and not sacrifice healthy ovaries? - Surviving

Hi Watergirl,
Couple of things come to mind. I think you/we need more information. There are various types of cysts, various sizes, some are benign, some are cancerous… In order to make an informed judgement more information is needed. In conditions where modern medicine is accessible, diagnosis is easy these days via CT or NRI scans or ultra sound.

Cysts are common & often disappear of their own accord. Some women experience symptoms, (which may be a sign of problematic cysts), others don't experience any symptoms. Post menopausal have a higher rate of cancerous cysts, which may be the cause of concern for you doctor.

Cysts can be removed, via laproscopic surgery. I'm not sure why your doctor is considering removing the ovaries & fallopian tubes or having a hysterectomy, rather than just the actual cysts!? Perhaps they know something you/we don't? Otherwise sounds rather like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut, (as they say in the UK). Of course, from a WW point of view, surgery is very much a last, & only if sensible, option. I support you in your reticence to go down that route.

There's some clear info re cysts; causes, types, treatment etc on the internet. If you haven't done so already, it would probably be a good idea to get more information prior to your next doctor's appointment &/or making any further decisions. I find I feel nervous, disempowered & nervous with experts/doctors otherwise.

Wishing you all the best,
Love, wholewomanuk

I have 3 cysts on one ovary. Largest is 13mm. They have been there for 2 years, without change. They hurt at first, but not now.

The research now is that ovarian cancer may really start in the Fallopian tubes.

One question will removing ovaries and Fallopian tubes add to prolapse, like a hysterectomy would. Dr said I would not need a hysterectomy.

I guess from reading how bad hysterectomys are, I would not want to wait, develop cancer and have to have everything taken out.