OVARIAN TUMORS: BENIGN

The ovaries are female organs that make the reproductive eggs and two hormones, estrogen and progesterone. A pair of these walnut-sized organs is found in the lower part of the abdomen on either side of the uterus. An ovarian tumor is a growth (on or inside an ovary) that is a solid mass, not a fluid-filled cyst. Many types of benign or noncancerous ovarian tumors exist. They are made up of abnormal cells that do not spread to other body tissues.

While more common than cancerous ovarian tumors, they have a greater chance for becoming cancerous as a woman ages. Women older than 60 are at highest risk. Cancerous tumor cells may spread directly into other tissues, or may detach from their original tumor site and spread through the body by way of blood vessels or lymph nodes.

Because of the risk for benign tumors to develop into cancer, women of all ages should be medically evaluated for:

changes in the menstrual period and cycle and
pressure or pain on your bowel, bladder, or other organs in your lower abdomen

Diagnostic tests may include an ultrasound or a laparoscopy. An ultrasound uses sound waves to view the organs and may be performed in a medical facility. A laparoscopy is a surgical procedure using a telescope-like tool that gives a close-up look at the organs. If a benign ovarian tumor is seen, your provider may either take a "wait and see approach" or recommend treatment or surgery. Benign tumors can be treated with conservative surgery.

There is no definite way to prevent the growth of ovarian tumors. Most women should have a well woman's physical examination every year. A healthcare provider performs a pelvic and abdominal exam. Doing this will help ensure that changes in a woman's ovaries are diagnosed as early as possible. In addition, a Pap smear does not have anything to do with diagnosis of ovarian problems.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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