What are ovarian cysts?
Most women have two ovaries. one located on each side of the uterus, which produce eggs for reproduction. The presence of cysts in or on your ovaries, which are fluid-filled sacs or pockets, is no cause for alarm and is very common, especially if you still have your periods or are pregnant. Cysts do become a problem if they grow and fail to resolve themselves naturally.
There are three different types of cysts that can develop in or on your ovaries:
- Follicle -- where eggs are delivered by the ovaries in a follicle, and if the follicle does not open, it can turn into a cyst
- Corpus luteum -- where the egg is released from the follicle, and instead of the follicle shrinking, it retains fluid and turns into a cyst.
- Nonfunctional -- a condition caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
What are the symptoms of a problem with ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts are usually dealt with effectively by your own body and resolve themselves within a few weeks or months. If you are feeling any of the following symptoms, however, there may be an issue with a persistent or growing cyst, including:
- Pressure, bloating, pain, and swelling on the side of your abdomen where the cyst is located
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pressure on your bladder or bowels, causing either frequent urination or constipation
If you experience sudden and severe abdominal pain, which may be accompanied by vomiting and fever, seek medical help right away as this might be an indication of a ruptured cyst.
How are ovarian cysts treated?
After performing a series of tests that may include a blood test, a pregnancy test, and an ultrasound, Dr. Tate will better understand what kind of cyst is bothering you and how to treat it. Depending on your condition, treatment may include:
- Watching and waiting -- to see if your body will resolve the cyst on its own
- Birth control pills -- which help reduce further cysts from forming
- Surgery -- if your cyst is large or growing, causes pain, or persists through two or three periods, Dr. Tate may suggest a laparoscopic procedure to remove it (or them)
Every case is different and Dr. Tate will make a full evaluation of your problem before recommending treatment.
