Ovarian Tumors: Benign

The ovaries are the female organs that make the body's reproductive hormones and eggs. A pair of ovaries is found in the lower part of a woman's belly. Sometimes they do not work right. An ovarian tumor is a growth on an ovary. Unlike a fluid filled cyst, it is solid.

Benign ovarian tumors are not cancerous. They do not invade tissues or spread to other parts of the body. If untreated, however, they may grow very large. Benign tumors may cause pain by pressing upon nearby structures and may disrupt normal hormone production.

Common symptoms include:

• hormonal changes leading to facial hair, or severe acne

• changes in the menstrual period or

• a dull lower abdominal ache

Ovarian tumors should always be evaluated. Many times these tumors will shrink with a simple course of birth control pills. In rare cases tumors may become twisted and very painful. Diagnosis is based upon:

• ultrasound, which uses sound waves to visualize structures or

• laparoscopy, which uses a telescope-like tool that gives a close-up look at the organs

If a benign ovarian tumor is seen, your healthcare provider may either take a "wait and see approach," or recommend treatment or surgery.

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