Are postmenopausal pelvic fluid masses benign?

Postmenopausal pelvic fluid masses may be benign, but one should also be alert to the possibility of malignant lesions. Common causes include ovarian cysts, hydrosalpinx, or pelvic inflammatory masses, which require medical examinations to confirm the diagnosis and take appropriate treatment.

1. Ovarian cyst

After menopause, women’s ovarian function declines, but cysts may still form. Benign cysts such as functional cysts or serous cystadenomas are more common. These cysts are usually asymptomatic, but if they are large, they may cause discomfort or pressure in the lower abdomen. Treatments include regular follow-up, medications such as hormone regulation, or surgical removal such as laparoscopic surgery.

2. Hydrosalpinx

Hydrosalpinx is often caused by chronic pelvic inflammatory disease or tubal obstruction, and manifests as a fluid mass in the pelvic cavity. Hydrosalpinx may cause dull pain in the lower abdomen or backache. In terms of treatment, mild hydrosalpinx can be treated with antibiotics to treat inflammation, while severe cases require surgery to clear or remove the diseased fallopian tube.

3. Pelvic inflammatory mass

Pelvic inflammatory masses are often caused by pelvic infection, and common symptoms include lower abdominal pain, fever, or abnormal vaginal discharge. Treatment is mainly anti-infection, and commonly used drugs include cephalosporin antibiotics or metronidazole. If the mass is large or drug treatment is ineffective, surgical drainage or removal may be required.

4. Possibility of malignant lesions

Postmenopausal pelvic fluid masses may also be a manifestation of malignant lesions such as ovarian cancer and fallopian tube cancer. If the mass grows rapidly and is accompanied by ascites or weight loss, high vigilance is required. Diagnosis requires combined imaging examinations such as B-ultrasound, CT and tumor marker testing. Treatment is mainly surgical resection, supplemented by chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

The nature of postmenopausal pelvic fluid masses needs to be clarified through professional medical examinations. Benign lesions can be effectively treated with drugs or surgery, but malignant lesions require early intervention. It is recommended that women have regular physical examinations and seek medical attention in time if abnormalities are found to avoid delaying the disease.