Can teratomas bleed?

Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on June 18, 2025
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Patients with teratomas generally have fewer symptoms of vaginal bleeding. More common symptoms include abdominal pain and bloating. It is recommended that patients with teratomas undergo an ultrasound examination as it can reveal whether there are abnormal tissues inside, such as teeth or hair. If a teratoma is detected, it is crucial to undergo surgical treatment as soon as possible because teratomas can become malignant. Moreover, teratomas usually occur at a younger age, during the adolescent years, and can therefore impact reproductive function. It is advised that such patients undergo surgery promptly.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can teratoma affect menstruation?

The majority of teratomas do not have endocrine functions and will not affect menstrual cycles. If there is a delay in menstruation, the first step is to check for pregnancy. If menstruation is delayed for two weeks, pregnancy should be ruled out, and interventions might be necessary, such as an ultrasound to examine the endometrium or a progesterone withdrawal test. Teratomas do not cause menstrual delays unless a very small number of them have endocrine issues. However, these would not suddenly change the menstrual cycle but would potentially cause long-term endocrine changes from the time the teratoma is discovered.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Symptoms of Teratoma

Not all teratomas show symptoms; often ovarian cysts are only discovered during physical examinations. If an examination reveals a heterogeneous mass in the adnexal region, and a teratoma is suspected from the ultrasound, a detailed assessment must be conducted first. It is important to evaluate if the teratoma has any functional issues or if it causes general health problems, considering its size among other factors. Some teratomas can be rechecked and observed over time, while others may require surgical treatment. Additionally, some teratomas might undergo torsion or rupture, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, although the likelihood of this occurring is not very high.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is teratoma related to HPV?

Teratomas are not related to HPV. Teratomas grow on the ovaries, while HPV infections occur in the cervix or vaginal area, so the locations of these two diseases are different. There are benign teratomas and immature teratomas, which must be surgically removed after detection. Most women will be infected with the HPV virus at some point in their lives, and the majority will clear the virus within two years through their immune system, so there is no need to be overly concerned about HPV infections, just regular follow-ups are sufficient.

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Written by Li Lin
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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The difference between teratoma and ovarian cysts

Teratomas are commonly found in both ovaries and can be distinguished from ovarian cysts by their appearance. Ovarian cysts contain a fluid similar to water, whereas teratomas typically contain sebaceous fluid and may also include tissues such as hair, bones, or teeth. Under a microscope, ovarian cysts show epithelial-like changes, while teratomas exhibit changes typical of germ cells. Teratomas and ovarian cysts can also be easily differentiated using color ultrasound examinations.

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Written by Gao Tian
General Surgery
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Is ovarian teratoma a major surgery?

Generally, ovarian teratomas are considered major surgeries and are closely related to the nature of the teratomas. These are common major gynecological surgeries. It is recommended to visit the obstetrics and gynecology department for comprehensive examinations and a full-body assessment. Additionally, procedures such as biopsy are needed to determine the nature of the tumor, after which an appropriate treatment plan can be chosen. Options generally include open surgery or laparoscopic surgery, both of which are relatively major procedures.