What are ovarian cysts?
Your ovaries are two almond-sized organs that sit on either side of your uterus. They’re responsible for the development and release of eggs each month. Fluid-filled sacs may form on these organs.
Several types of ovarian cysts can form. These include:
- Follicle cysts
- Corpus luteum cysts
- Endometriomas
- Dermoids
In most cases, ovarian cysts don’t cause infertility, but if you have polycystic ovary syndrome, which is characterized by multiple small cysts and an imbalance of hormones, you can have trouble getting pregnant.
What are the symptoms of an ovarian cyst?
You may not even know you have an ovarian cyst unless one of the doctors at New England Women’s Healthcare discovers it during a routine gynecological exam. Most cysts don’t cause symptoms and go away on their own.
Large ovarian cysts can sometimes cause:
- Pain during sex
- Frequent urination or difficulty urinating
- Pressure or bloating in your lower abdomen
To determine whether an ovarian cyst is causing your symptoms, you’ll undergo an ultrasound to get an image of your ovaries. The ultrasound can also help the doctors evaluate the location, size, and shape of the cyst (or cysts). Blood tests and a pregnancy test may also be conducted.
How are ovarian cysts treated?
Ovarian cysts often disappear on their own and require no intervention. The doctors at New England Women’s Healthcare may recommend a wait-and-see approach to monitor your cysts.
Some women require surgery to remove ovarian cysts. This may be recommended if:
- Your cyst hasn’t disappeared after several menstrual cycles
- Your cyst causes pain
- Your cyst looks unusual or is at risk of rupturing
The doctors remove ovarian cysts using laparoscopic techniques.
What happens if a cyst ruptures?
Ovarian cysts do have the potential to rupture (burst) or cause uncomfortable twisting of your ovaries in a condition known as ovarian torsion. Such situations are an emergency and require immediate care. If you have sudden pelvic pain and nausea and vomiting associated with an ovarian cyst, contact the office right away.
For proper management of ovarian cysts, call the office of New England Women’s Healthcare or schedule online using this website.
