Ovarian Cysts

What are ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled pockets found in your ovary or on the surface of your ovary. They generally form during ovulation and are rarely cancerous.

Types of cysts that develop during ovulation include:

Follicle cysts

When your ovaries release an egg, they’re contained in a sac called a follicle. The follicle breaks open and releases the egg when it matures.

A follicle cyst develops if the sac fails to break open and release the egg. Instead, the egg and sac continue to grow. Follicle cysts rarely cause symptoms and usually resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles.

Corpus luteum cysts

After releasing the egg, the follicle shrinks and turns into a mass of cells called corpus luteum. These cells produce hormones that start your next menstrual cycle.

Corpus luteum cysts occur if the sac doesn’t shrink and instead reseals itself and fills with fluid. These types of ovarian cysts can grow large and may cause symptoms. 

What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts rarely cause symptoms. However, some women experience:

• Pelvic pain
• Bloating
• Pressure in the lower abdomen
• Unexplained weight gain
• Pain during intercourse
• Irregular bleeding
• Increase in urination

If your cyst ruptures, you may experience sudden, severe pain. A ruptured cyst is a medical emergency and requires immediate care.

Large cysts may cause your ovaries to twist, which may cause pain, nausea, and vomiting. 

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

The team at The Women's Center conducts an in-depth clinical exam when you come to the office with symptoms that may indicate an ovarian cyst. During your evaluation, your provider reviews your symptoms and your gynecological and medical history, and then performs a pelvic exam. 

To confirm you have ovarian cysts, the team does an in-office ultrasound to view your ovaries and look for cysts. 

How are ovarian cysts treated?

Treatment for your ovarian cysts may depend on cyst type and size, as well as the severity of your symptoms. The experts at The Women's Center offer medical and surgical management options for ovarian cysts. 

For small cysts, the team may take a wait-and-see approach and have you return to the office periodically to repeat the ultrasound test. They may also prescribe hormonal birth control for women who develop frequent ovarian cysts.

If your ovarian cyst doesn’t resolve on its own, or it enlarges or causes severe pain, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the cyst. The surgical experts use minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic surgery, when removing ovarian cysts. 

For a personalized approach to your gynecological needs, call The Women's Center, PC, or request an appointment online.