Ovarian Mass
An ovarian mass is simply a growth or swelling that develops in or on the ovary. Often, these masses are harmless and tend to resolve on their own, but there are times when they can lead to symptoms or complications that may require medical attention.
Dr Kavul Mulomb is here to help you understand the type of mass you might have. Together, we'll determine if it requires treatment and discuss the best course of action to take next.
What causes an ovarian mass?
Ovarian masses can occur at any age, but they tend to be more common during the reproductive years. There are several factors that can contribute to their occurrence, such as natural hormone fluctuations, underlying health conditions, or, though rarely, cancer.
Common causes include:
Functional cysts
These are some of the most common types of ovarian masses that develop as part of the normal menstrual cycle. They often form when the ovary doesn’t release an egg or if the sac that held the egg doesn't dissolve properly. The good news is that most functional cysts are harmless and tend to disappear on their own within just a few weeks!
Benign growths
Non-cancerous masses like dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, and fibromas can develop on the ovaries. They can come in different sizes and might hold fluid, fat, or even hair and skin cells. While they are usually harmless, there might be a need to remove them if they grow large or cause discomfort.
Endometriosis
Endometriomas are a kind of ovarian cyst that form when endometrial tissue grows on the ovary. These masses can be quite painful, especially during menstruation, and they may impact fertility for some women.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Women with PCOS often find themselves with multiple small cysts on their ovaries, which happens due to a hormonal imbalance. This condition can lead to irregular periods, challenges with ovulation, and may also bring about other symptoms like acne or excessive hair growth.
Ovarian cancer
Although it's uncommon, some ovarian masses can be cancerous. They're more often found in women over 50, but they can develop at any age. In the early stages, symptoms might be subtle, so it's really important to look into any ongoing symptoms you might have.
Infections and inflammation
Pelvic inflammatory disease and other infections can sometimes lead to the development of ovarian abscesses or inflammatory masses. These conditions are usually accompanied by fever, pain, and tenderness, so it's important to seek prompt treatment to ensure your well-being.
Pregnancy-related cysts
It's not uncommon for cysts to develop during early pregnancy, and most of the time, they’re completely harmless and tend to resolve on their own. However, it’s important to keep an eye on them just to be safe.
If you've been informed that you have an ovarian mass, or if you’re feeling worried about any symptoms, a medical assessment can provide clarity on what's going on and whether any treatment might be necessary.
Signs you may have an ovarian mass
Some ovarian masses might not cause any symptoms at all and are often discovered during routine exams. However, there are others that can create noticeable discomfort or changes in your body. These symptoms can vary widely, from mild to quite severe.
You may experience:
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Bloating or a swollen abdomen
- Pain during intercourse
- Frequent urination or difficulty emptying your bladder
- A feeling of fullness quickly after eating
- Changes in your menstrual cycle or bleeding between periods
- Lower back pain
Sometimes, an ovarian mass may twist the ovary, a condition known as ovarian torsion. This situation can lead to sudden, intense pain, and it's important to seek emergency treatment right away.
How is an ovarian mass diagnosed?
If you’re looking to figure out what type of mass you’re dealing with and what might be causing it, Dr Kavul Mulomb might suggest a few helpful options:
- A pelvic examination to check things out more closely
- A transvaginal ultrasound, which can give a clearer view of the mass
- Blood tests, including CA-125, that could help assess any risks related to cancer
- In certain cases, an MRI or CT scan might be needed to gather more information
- Lastly, a laparoscopy, which is a small surgical procedure, can be used to both diagnose and sometimes treat the mass.
- Changes in your menstrual cycle or bleeding between periods
- Lower back pain
These tools are great for helping us figure out if the mass is probably benign or if it might require some extra treatment down the line.
Treatment options for an ovarian mass
The approach to treatment really depends on the size, type, and symptoms of the mass. If the mass is small and isn’t causing any symptoms, your doctor might suggest keeping an eye on it over time instead of jumping straight into treatment.
Other treatment options include:
- Hormonal reproductive wellness: Can help prevent new cysts from forming
- Laparoscopic surgery: A keyhole procedure to remove the mass
- Laparotomy: A larger surgery is used if the mass is larger or possibly cancerous
- Referral to a specialist: If the mass appears concerning for cancer
Dr Kavul Mulomb tailors your treatment to fit your unique situation, which may involve either gentle monitoring or proactive intervention based on your needs.
Dr. Kavul Mulomb is here to help you explore whether the mass needs treatment and discuss the options that are right for you. If you're feeling worried about an ovarian mass or experiencing symptoms that disrupt your daily life, please don’t hesitate to book an appointment so we can talk about your options together.