How long after laparoscopic surgery for a teratoma can one have sexual intercourse?

Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on March 12, 2025
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Teratomas are predominantly benign tumors, mainly located in the ovaries, although in some patients with unique physical constitutions, ovarian tissues may also ectopically end up in the pelvic area, forming a pelvic teratoma. Whether it is an ovarian teratoma or a pelvic teratoma, the scope of the surgery is typically medium-sized. If the surgery is an open operation, it is classified as a second-level surgery, and if it is performed using laparoscopy, it should be classified as a third-level surgery. Both second and third-level surgeries fall under the medium-sized category, and patients usually recover quite quickly after the operation. Typically, we advise patients to refrain from sexual intercourse, pelvic baths, and to avoid heavy physical labor within a month post-operation.

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Written by Tao Zhong E
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does a teratoma hurt?

Ovarian tumors can be of many types, including serous cystadenomas, mucinous cystadenomas, chocolate cysts, or teratomas. Most patients with teratomas have no obvious symptoms, especially when the teratoma is less than 5cm in size. Most are discovered incidentally during physical examinations and are often asymptomatic. However, teratomas measuring 5-6cm can easily undergo torsion within the abdominal cavity. Torsion may lead to acute abdominal pain, although typically, there are no symptoms of abdominal pain. Thus, annual physical examinations can help detect tumors on the ovaries or uterus.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does ovarian teratoma affect menstruation?

Ovarian teratomas include mature teratomas, which are benign tumors. These benign ovarian teratomas do not affect menstruation. However, there are also malignant teratomas, which are immature teratomas. Immature teratomas can secrete hormones, and because they secrete different types of hormones, their impact on menstruation varies. If an ovarian teratoma is diagnosed, immediate surgical treatment is required, because if it is an immature teratoma, it is malignant. Prolonged presence can lead to metastasis. If a teratoma is detected early, early-stage malignant tumors can be cured through surgical treatment.

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Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can teratoma be treated with medication?

Teratomas are divided into mature and immature teratomas. Mature teratomas, also known as dermoid cysts, are benign tumors, commonly found in individuals aged 20-40, usually unilaterally. The contents of the cyst typically include substances like sebum, hair, and teeth. Immature teratomas, on the other hand, are malignant tumors, though less common. They have a higher rate of recurrence and metastasis. Surgical treatment is generally recommended for teratomas, while medical treatment is not advised. Less frequently, laparoscopic surgery can be used for certain teratomas. If a teratoma is suspected to be malignant preoperatively, exploratory laparotomy is often performed. Postoperative outcomes are generally better for benign mature teratomas. In cases of malignant teratomas, chemotherapy may be required after surgery.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Will a teratoma regrow if it is removed?

After surgery for ovarian teratoma, whether it can regrow is uncertain, because ovarian tissue can potentially develop such tumors. Ovarian teratomas can be benign or malignant. The recurrence rate of benign teratomas is very low after surgery, but there is still a possibility of regrowth. However, for malignant teratomas, also known as immature teratomas, surgery involves removing the affected ovary. The opposite ovary can be preserved if it is normal, depending on the patient's age, but regular follow-ups are necessary. If the patient is older, an extensive surgery for teratoma, which includes the removal of both the uterus and ovaries, might be required.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Does ovarian teratoma affect pregnancy?

In gynecology, teratomas are a very common type of ovarian cyst. If a teratoma is discovered during the pre-pregnancy period, its size should be considered. If the teratoma is larger than five centimeters in diameter and is accompanied by abnormalities on a CT scan, it is recommended to undergo surgery before attempting to conceive. If the teratoma is very small, such as two to three centimeters in diameter, it does not affect future pregnancy. If a teratoma is discovered during early pregnancy, opinions vary. Some recommend surgical treatment after the first trimester, while others suggest a pregnancy observation plan. Teratomas during pregnancy are prone to complications such as ovarian cyst torsion, which can cause abdominal pain. Therefore, if you have a teratoma and successfully conceive, be mindful of any pain.