Will having an ovarian tumor affect pregnancy?

Although the ovaries are small, they are important organs that determine female sexual characteristics and fertility. However, in the gynecological clinic, some patients come to see the doctor nervously every day with ultrasound reports, because ultrasound shows that there are ovarian masses. Some of these patients have physiological ovarian cysts, also known as ovarian tumor-like lesions. This type of cyst is generally no larger than 5 cm and disappears 2-3 days after menstruation. It can be observed for 2-3 months or oral contraceptives can be taken. If the cyst persists or increases in size, it can be suspected to be an ovarian tumor.

Ovarian tumors can be benign or malignant, and early detection and treatment are key. However, ovarian tumors have no obvious symptoms in the early stages and are relatively hidden. How can they be detected early?

1. Actively do health check-ups: It is best to have a gynecological examination and pelvic ultrasound at least once a year.

2. Abdominal distension, increased abdominal circumference, and abdominal swelling: There is a feeling of fullness and heaviness in the lower abdomen or iliac fossa; clothes or belts become noticeably tighter; abdominal distension and discomfort, and abdominal swelling is found.

3. Abdominal pain: Malignant cysts often cause acute abdominal pain.

4. Compression symptoms: edema of the abdominal wall and bilateral lower limbs, or edema of one lower limb, difficulty urinating, urinary retention, urgency or difficulty in defecation, etc.

5. Menstrual disorders.

In addition to B-ultrasound, CT, MRI, and tumor markers can be used to determine whether an ovarian mass is physiological, benign, or malignant. If necessary, if it is a benign ovarian tumor, surgery or regular follow-up examinations can be determined based on the size of the tumor; if the tumor continues to grow or is suspected of becoming malignant, surgery should be performed as soon as possible.

Generally speaking, unless bilateral oophorectomy is performed, simple ovarian tumor removal has little impact on fertility. Laparoscopic surgery can preserve the ovaries, and after proper postoperative conditioning, the chance of conception is still very high.