Problems

Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are quite common in women during their childbearing years. Most cysts result from the changes in hormone levels that occur during the menstrual cycle and the production and release of eggs from the ovaries. A woman can develop one cyst or many cysts. Ovarian cysts can vary in size from as small as a pea too as big as a grapefruit.

There are different types of ovarian cysts, and each type causes a variety of symptoms. All cysts can bleed, rupture, and twist and cause pain. Most cysts are benign-not cancerous. A few cysts though may turn out to be malignant and for that your doctor should check out reason.

Symptoms Most ovarian cysts are small and do not cause symptoms. Some go away on their own. Some may cause symptoms because of twisting, bleeding, and rupture. They may cause a dull ache in the abdomen and pain during sexual intercourse.

Diagnosis An ovarian cyst is often found during a routine pelvic exam. When we find an enlarged ovary, we will suggest other tests as these to determine proper diagnosis: An ultrasound, Laparoscopy, or even a blood test.

Treatment If your cyst is not causing any symptoms, your doctor may simply monitor it for 1-2 months. Most functional cysts go away on their own. However, if your cyst is large or causing considerable symptoms we may suggest either treatment with hormones (birth control pills) or surgery.

Please contact our office to have an evaluation if you are having any of these symptoms.