Health Encyclopedia

Ovarian growths

Alternative Names

Ovarian mass; Adnexal mass

Information

There are many causes for growths on the ovary. Your age and medical history are important in evaluating an ovarian growth.

Before menopause, the ovary forms a fluid-filled sac (ovarian cyst) every month as a normal part of the process of releasing an egg. There are other reasons why the ovary can form a cyst; most of these are not worrisome. If a cyst is large (over 5 centimeters), or doesn't go away after a few months, then you may need to have it further evaluated or removed.

Regardless of your age, have your doctor look at any ovarian growths that are complex or solid.

See also: Ovarian cysts

Review Date:11/9/2007
Reviewed By:Peter Chen, M.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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