The female organ that makes the body's reproductive hormones and eggs is the ovary. A pair of ovaries is found in the lower part of our body called the pelvis. Sometimes they don't work right. An ovarian tumor is a growth on the 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 they may grow very large. They may press upon structures and cause pain, as well as 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. Rarely, tumors 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 take a "wait and see approach", or recommend treatment or surgery.

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