Also, my grandmother had ovarian cancer, and so while they were taking out one, I wanted the other gone as well. And since a lone uterus unsupported by any ovaries is a health risk, out she goes, too.
I do want to say I'm sorry to hear about the problems you are having. I hope you'll have good health again soon!
-alice
I am having serious pain, so yes, the ovary must go. My doctor told me he could just remove the one ovary and call it day, provided it is a dermoid cyst. I opted for the whole shabang since I have a fibroid on my uterus, along with painful "relations". And honestly, I'm so done with periods.
I have never met anybody (in real life) who regrets the decision. That said, I appreciate your concern. But I'm happy with my decision.
Opps sorry about the post above for some reason it got posted before I could submit it.
aliceseeksmedical I totally agree with old_before_my_time.
Ask your Doctor to protect all your organs. Tell you Doctor that you would LOVE to save your organs as much as you can.
Take care and God Bless.
I had a 9.5 cm ovarian cyst, not a dermoid though. Dermoid cysts are benign (non-cancerous). But most other types of ovarian cysts are benign too. The average woman's lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is less than 2%.
Like you, I was 49 years old. My gynecologist should have just removed the cyst or the one ovary but he removed everything (hysterectomy and oophorectomy). I have been suffering the many after-effects ever since (8 years). I aged 15 years by 4 months post-op. I am still horrified when I look in the mirror.
I am curious why your doctor isn't removing JUST the dermoid cyst and leaving your sex organs intact. Our organs have life-long functions and work as a system so even the removal of an ovary can cause serious, permanent problems (such as ovarian failure). Intact women's ovaries produce hormones into their 80's for optimal health and well-being.
Hysterectomy and oophorectomy are the most overused surgeries (along with c-section). Only 2% are done for confirmed cancer. Even ACOG says that 76% of hysterectomies do not meet their criteria.