QuestionHello,
I am 51 years old and was found to have a hard mass attached to my ovary. My mother had her last cycle at age 55. I am scheduled for surgery next month to remove the ovary. The CA 125 test came back negative and I do not have very much fluid showing.The Surgeon doesn't seem concerned. The fibroid is 6cms x 5cms.I was wondering if it could be looked at during the laparoscopy and if it's benign I could keep my ovary since I have read that after menopause these may shrink from the lack of estrogen. I am worried about the side effects. I have a lot of fatigue associated with my periods.I don't want to be thrown into early menopause and I'd like to keep all of my body parts!
Thank you
AnswerHello Linda from the U.S.,
Certainly the mass could be removed on its own without removal of the ovary. You should discuss that with your surgeon (Gynecologist). However, if the ovary needs to be removed for ease and safety of the surgery, you will still have one remaining ovary. That will be sufficient to produce the hormones you need at this time and not thrust you into menopause.
Sincerely,
Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com
Monterey, California, U.S.A.
for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on facebook and twitter with me at @montereybayivf
