Ovarian Cyst FAQs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Many women are alarmed when they hear they may have an ovarian cyst. But what exactly is an ovarian cyst, and is it something you should be worried about?
Ovarian cysts are very common. Many women develop small cysts every month and never realize it, passing them naturally in 2 to 3 menstrual cycles. However, some cysts can continue to grow and cause painful symptoms, like pelvic pain. Cysts requiring treatment occur in about 8% of premenopausal women.
We’re here to answer your most frequently asked questions about ovarian cysts and pelvic pain so that you can better understand this common condition and make an informed decision about when to see a trusted OBGYN.
What is an Ovarian Cyst?
Ovarian cysts are small fluid-filled sacs that form on or inside one of your ovaries. They occur in two main types: functional cysts and non-functional cysts. Functional cysts are the most common, usually causing no symptoms and disappearing on their own in 6–8 weeks. Non-functional cysts come in a variety of forms, including:
Cystadenomas: benign (non-cancerous) tumors that form on the outer surface of the ovary
Endometriomas: many small cysts that develop as a result of endometriosis
Dermoid cysts and Teratomas: cysts or benign tumors containing different tissues such as skin and hair, which are often present from birth.
Malignant (cancerous) cysts are rare and are a form of ovarian cancer.
What Are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts?
Most cysts don’t cause any symptoms and aren’t a cause for concern. However, larger cysts can present problematic symptoms, including:
Pelvic pain, especially during sex and before/after your period
Bloating, or a heavy or full feeling inside the abdomen
Frequent urination or a feeling that you can’t completely empty your bladder
Unusual vaginal bleeding
If you experience any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor straight away. If you have sudden, severe pain in your pelvis or abdomen or experience nausea and vomiting, call 911, as these could be signs of a ruptured cyst or twisted ovary.
What Causes Ovarian Cysts?
Many ovarian cysts are harmless and painless, developing as part of a woman’s menstrual cycle. Simple ovarian cysts occur in almost all premenopausal women and up to 18% of postmenopausal women. Certain conditions may increase your risk of developing cysts that require treatment, such as:
Endometriosis
Irregular menstrual cycles
Hormonal imbalances, including those brought on by fertility drugs
Severe pelvic infection
Pregnancy
Can Ovarian Cysts Affect My Fertility?
Typically, ovarian cysts do not affect your ability to conceive. Ovarian cysts caused by certain underlying conditions can, however, make it harder to get pregnant. Endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are the two most common conditions that can interfere with conception.
Of course, every woman is different, and your doctor can work with you to address any underlying fertility issues that may occur alongside cysts.
How Are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed?
Cysts are often discovered during regular pelvic exams. If you or your OB/GYN suspect that you may have an ovarian cyst, your doctor may order more comprehensive exams or tests to learn more about your symptoms. These tests include:
Ultrasound exams to show the shape, size, location, and other characteristics of the cyst
Pregnancy tests, which can indicate the presence of certain types of cyst
Blood tests for CA 125, a cancer antigen
How Are Ovarian Cysts Treated?
Most ovarian cysts may not need treatment or surveillance. For cysts that are large or causing discomfort, your doctor will perform a thorough assessment, including test results, evaluation of your symptoms, and your medical history. Depending on the type of cyst, treatment options may include:
Watchful waiting: monitoring your cyst with ultrasounds over time
Medication: taking birth control pills, which stop ovulation and reduce the chance of future cyst development
Laparoscopic surgery: removing the cyst through a small incision
When to See a Doctor
Whenever you’re experiencing pelvic pain or discomfort, it’s best to call a trusted and experienced OB/GYN like Dr. Gary B. Sullivan for a thorough evaluation. Ovarian cysts are no cause for panic, but ignoring the symptoms of larger cysts can lead to serious complications down the road. It’s important to be proactive when painful symptoms arise and make sure to schedule your annual exams with a doctor who cares!
Dr. Gary B. Sullivan: Statesboro Women’s Health Specialists
Dr. Gary B. Sullivan cares deeply about the health and wellbeing of all his patients in Statesboro, GA. If you suspect you may have ovarian cysts or are experiencing chronic pelvic pain, visit Dr. Sullivan at Statesboro’s state-of-the-art women’s health facility. Call us today at 912-871-2000 to schedule an appointment or contact us here.