Ovarian Cysts

I have today been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst.
I am 44 years old and there is no family history of ovarian cancer. I have had a blood test today and have an appointment to see oncology specialist on Thursday. They have recommended I have a full hysterectomy and then go on HRT. What is the chance of it being cancer and will it matter if I wait a month to 6 weeks before the operation, do you really think it is necessary to have everything removed.

Dear Christine-
There are several types of ovarian cysts that can commonly occur in women. Many should be removed immediately, like teratomas and dermoids. Others however are strictly benign and if assymptommatic may not require surgery.
You should proceed with caution….at this point I see absolutely no reason to rush into an irreversible procedure like a hysterectomy. I am also a little surprised that you are being sent to an oncologist so soon. The blood test that was ordered was probably at CA125…these results are extremely variable and conclusive. Many of our patients come with high levels, which many doctors interpret as a malignancy. Not one of our patients has had any form of cancer associated with that test…elevations in a CA125 can be caused by the presence endometriosis, and once that is treated the test result returns to normal.
Do not let them push you into surgery…get several opinions. The only reason to have a full hysterectomy would be a malignancy….if your cyst is benign they should be able to remove your cyst only (not the ovary) and allow your body to enter menopause naturally.
Good luck