Ovarian Cyst

What is an ovarian cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a sac filled with fluid that develops in or on an ovary. You have two ovaries that produce eggs during your fertile years, and ovarian cysts are a common condition that many women have without being aware the cysts are present.

In most cases, ovarian cysts don’t cause symptoms, and they disappear naturally within a few months. Some women have ovarian cysts that are more problematic, causing pain and discomfort. If a cyst ruptures, it can cause severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

Your doctor at Serenity Women's Health & Med Spa checks your ovaries during your annual well-woman exam to make sure you don’t have any ovarian cysts that could potentially cause problems.

Why do ovarian cysts develop?

Most cysts on the ovaries develop during your menstrual cycle. These are called functional cysts. It’s normal for the ovaries to develop follicles every month that produce estrogen and progesterone and release the egg from the ovary. Sometimes, the follicle continues to grow, forming an ovarian cyst.

Functional cysts rarely cause any problems and usually disappear within a few months. However, other types of cysts are more likely to cause problems:

• Dermoid cysts or teratomas
• Cystadenomas
• Endometriomas

Unlike functional cysts, these cysts aren’t related to your monthly cycle. They may become large enough to force the ovary out of position and cause ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists and, in some cases, decreases or stops blood flow.

You’re more likely to develop ovarian cysts if:

• You have hormonal problems
• You’re taking a fertility drug to stimulate ovulation
• You’re pregnant
• You have endometriosis
• You have a severe pelvic infection
• You have a history of developing cysts

Preventing ovarian cysts from forming isn’t possible, so regular checkups with your doctor at Opulence Health and Wellness are essential in detecting problems in a timely manner.

How are ovarian cysts treated?

If you have no symptoms, you may not need treatment as the cyst is likely to go away naturally. Your doctor monitors the cyst with ultrasounds to see how it's developing. You can take birth control pills to help prevent new cysts from forming.

If a cyst is large, nonfunctional, causes pain, and shows no sign of going away, your doctor may recommend surgery.

To schedule your well-woman checkup or talk to your provider at Opulence Health and Wellness about pelvic pain, call the office today or book an appointment online.