left ovary

I have had a ultrasound scan internal and external I have a swollen left ovary and  cysts. Back pain, lack of apptie,  feeling and sometimes being sick a blood test ca125 came back at 44. I know it should be below 35. My mum nan and aunt have all had breast cancer.  I am 47. I've had cysts removed 3 years ago. And my womb lining removed 2 years ago.  I got sterlizlied at 22.. I'm worried in case it is cancer. I've been referred to gynaecoloy 

  • Hello and thanks for your post

    I’m sorry you are worried about your health.

    Ovarian cysts are very common, and they can be simple (benign) or complex ovarian cysts. Most complex cysts are benign (not cancer) but a few complex cysts may have worrying features and may need further investigations.  A complex cyst that does not show too many worrying features may just be monitored.

    Waiting to find out more is invariably stressful, but try not to anticipate what might be the matter, not even your doctor can be sure at the moment. It's also quite possible that nothing serious may be the matter.

    The next step is to wait and see the gynaecologist, to see what they say. Until then no one will be able to tell you more for now.

    Waiting is never easy and I’m afraid there is no real way around this. Some people find sticking to a routine and keeping busy and talking to family and friends can sometimes help. But until you know more it’s natural to worry.

    I hope you know more soon. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over.The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene

  • Thank you for your prompt reply.  Yes I feel the stress of not knowing is worse. 

    Kind regards Sandy 

  • I just had a thought,  do you think I'll get an answer from my gynaecoloy about it being just cysts endometriosis or cancer... I've had scans,  ct scans,  and an endoscopy with biopsy. 2 lots of bloods. And the .ca 125 blood  test. My app is this Tuesday.  Sorry to be a bother.... many thanks Sandy. 

  • Hello Sandy and thanks for getting back to us,

    You are not a bother at all. It is never easy for waiting for results to come back and  it is very easy for your mind to work overtime. 

    I am sure that when you see the gynaecologist they will be able to give you more information about the different tests that you have had done.

    There may well be a perfectly straightforward explanation to explain any symptoms that you have which don't mean a cancer diagnosis. You may find this  information helpful about what to ask your doctor when you go for your appointment so that you feel that you have had a chance to have all your questions answered. Have a look here

    I hope this helps. Try and keep yourself busy today and your mind on  other things.

    I hope that you know more tomorrow. If you feel like you would like to have a chat with one of the nurses on the helpline then do get back to us or give us a ring.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    All the Best,

    Catherine