During a recent "internal" exam, my doctor said he felt something hardening. He said it was probably a cyst and that it would most likely go away on its own. I didn't realize that cysts just went away. Should I get a second opinion?

--Juli

First, ovarian cysts are fairly common and most do go away without any intervention within one or two menstrual cycles. Sometimes birth control pills are prescribed to hasten this. Occasionally, if the cyst is large or is causing pain, a laparoscopy may be needed to drain and remove the cyst. If I feel a medium-sized cyst (we usually can't even feel small ones unless you are particularly thin), I ask the woman to come back after two periods to make sure it has gone away. If it hasn't, I order an ultrasound to better evaluate the mass.

I suggest you call your doctor, tell him or her that you're worried about what he or she told you, and ask for clarification. Ask whether you should have an ultrasound or return for a reexamination in a couple of months. If you are still not happy with the advice, do what I always encourage people to do when they are worried -- get a second opinion. It's a worthwhile investment for peace of mind.