One Down, Eight To Go

8cm Dog Toy

One month post-hospitalization (roughly) and there is mixed news from the doctor.

Evidently, the type of ultrasound used in getting a visual on these growths is KEY.  The new ultrasound, performed in the doctor's office on February 10th, shows the cyst a centimeter smaller (now 8 instead of 9cm), but likely not "simple," which is slightly complicating.  The growth seems to be encapsulating something other than clear fluids, so that is a bit disconcerting to both the doctor and the patient.  (Check out more information here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ovarian_cyst )

8cm Christmas Ornament

Nonetheless, we are in a "wait-and-see" pattern for at least another month.  I will continue with the low-dose progesterone therapy during that time in hopes that the growth is further shrunken in that span.  He does not expect it to be completely absent at our next viewing, but is hopeful that another centimeter or so will be shaved off the size.

8cm Koosh Balls

In the interim, I continue with my life unimpeded (mostly).  Sadly, there are some unfortunate side-affects to the treatment... I mean, why should anything be made easier in this, right?  So, my face is broken out worse than it ever had been in my teenage years and that is complicated by the extreme cold weather we have had, which has caused severe dryness atop of the fabulous acne.  

Be mindful of pining for youth.

It wasn't all it was cracked up to be the first time around; 

it won't be better the second (especially with acne - heehee).

At this point, I will be happy when the side-affects subside and my children stop inspecting my face daily.  Their scrutiny is ego-shattering like nothing else...