Will a teratoma in the left ovary cause left abdominal pain?

A teratoma of the left ovary may cause left-sided abdominal pain, especially when the tumor is large, has complications (such as torsion, rupture), or causes compression of surrounding tissues. In addition, abdominal pain may also be related to other gynecological diseases. It is recommended to seek medical attention in time for ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and other examinations to clarify the cause and avoid delaying treatment.

1. What is ovarian teratoma and its symptoms

Ovarian teratoma is a tumor caused by abnormal embryonic development, which is common in women aged 20-40. It can contain hair, teeth, bones and other tissues, and can be divided into benign and malignant. Usually, benign teratomas have no obvious symptoms, but when the tumor grows, it can cause abdominal distension, pressure and even pain. If torsion or rupture occurs, it can cause acute and severe abdominal pain, accompanied by acute manifestations such as nausea, vomiting and fever.

2. Possible causes of left abdominal pain caused by teratoma

- The tumor enlarges and compresses surrounding tissues

As the teratoma grows, it irritates the surrounding nerves and compresses the left ovary and nearby organs, causing chronic abdominal distension and occasional dull pain. This type of pain is usually irregular and of low intensity.

-Recommendation: In the early stage when the tumor is small, regular follow-up (such as ultrasound examination every six months) is recommended.

-Tumor torsion

Teratoma torsion is a common complication. Due to uneven force on the tumor, blood supply is blocked, causing acute tearing-like severe abdominal pain, accompanied by chills, hypotension, and syncope.

-Recommendation: If severe and persistent left-sided abdominal pain occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Laparoscopic surgery may be required to relieve the torsion and remove the tumor.

- Tumor rupture

If a teratoma ruptures, its contents enter the peritoneal cavity and may cause chemical peritonitis, resulting in acute abdominal pain accompanied by abdominal tenderness, muscle tension, and fever.

-Recommendation: After rupture, surgery is required to clean out the contents and thoroughly treat the lesion to avoid the spread of infection.

3. Other possible diseases related to pain

Left-sided abdominal pain may also be caused by other gynecological problems, such as ruptured ovarian cysts, abnormal ovarian corpus luteum or follicles, pelvic inflammatory disease, or even digestive system diseases (such as enteritis and constipation). Excluding non-teratoma factors requires a clear diagnosis.

4. Treatment methods and preventive measures

-Medication

For small benign teratomas without obvious complications, they can be observed and followed up without intervention; if painkillers are used due to pain, they must be done under the guidance of a doctor.

-Surgery

Larger tumors (>5 cm), with complications, or suspected malignant changes require surgical treatment. Commonly used methods include:

1. Laparoscopic surgery: remove lesions and reduce trauma.

2. Open surgery: suitable for severe complications or large tumors.

3. Partial oophorectomy: try to preserve ovarian function.

-Lifestyle adjustments

Exercise appropriately, relieve stress, and maintain a balanced diet to prevent the risk of recurrence of ovarian disease.

If you find abdominal pain suspected to be caused by a left ovarian teratoma, you should first go to the hospital for examination to determine the cause and develop a specific treatment plan. Early detection and early treatment can reduce the risk of worsening abdominal pain or complications.