Understanding a Uterine Mass Detected at 21 Weeks - What Are My Options?

Question
I am 27 years old I am expecting my first child this June. I recently had my first ultrasound and found out that I had a mass about the  size of a tennis ball outside my uterus. I have had no prior symptoms other than having pain during sex with deep penetration that has lasted for a few years now. My Dr. doesn't feel that there is any thing to do but to wait till I deliver because of the risk to the baby. She scheduled me for another ultrasound in 6 weeks to just keep an eye on the situation. I was just concerned that maybe I should look into other options. Is it safe to just wait another 5 months?

Answer
I would just follow this mass, as long as it is not growing too large during the pregnancy. The sonogram can see if it is solid or cystic and, based on the size (over 6cm diameter or under 6cm diameter), whether it should be removed during the pregnancy or it can wait until after the delivery of the baby. If it does not interfere with the pregnancy, it is better to wait until after the pregnancy so as not to disturb the growth of the fetus. Youo really want to avid the risks of anesthesia during pregnancy.