Ovarian Cyst Q & A

What is an ovarian cyst?

Your ovaries are the two almond-shaped organs that sit on either side of your uterus. Your ovaries are responsible for the maturation and release of your eggs each month and hormone production.

Fluid-filled sacs may form on these organs. Usually, these cysts come and go without causing symptoms or problems. The most common types of cysts are:

Follicular cysts
When your eggs are developing, they grow within a follicle. When the egg is mature, the follicle bursts open and releases the egg, but when this follicle remains shut, a cyst can form. These cysts are usually not symptomatic and generally go away within a few menstrual cycles.

Corpus luteum cyst
When the follicle bursts, it shrinks, leaving behind a group of cells called the corpus luteum. If the follicle fails to shrink, it may form a cyst. Corpus luteum cysts often go away within a few weeks but have the potential to grow quite large in size.

Other types of ovarian cysts include dermoid, endometriomas, and cystadenomas.

What are the symptoms of an ovarian cyst?

Most cysts are asymptomatic, but it’s possible to have some discomfort because of the cyst’s position or size. If you do have symptoms related to an ovarian cyst, they might show up as: Pelvic pain, especially during menstruation or intercourse Bloating and swelling Increase in urination Unexplained weight gain Abnormal bleeding Commonly, cysts can rupture, causing a cascade of serious symptoms. You usually experience a severe and sudden onset of pelvic pain, and you should seek immediate medical attention.

How are ovarian cysts treated?

If ovarian cysts are detected, but not causing symptoms, Dr. Leibman may recommend simply monitoring it to see if it goes away on its own. If your cyst isn’t going away or causes significant symptoms, you may benefit from minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery to have it removed.

What is PCOS?

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a subtle hormone imbalance caused by high levels of male hormones, or androgens. PCOS can be characterized by multiple cysts in your ovaries that interfere with your ability to get pregnant. Your ovaries may not develop eggs properly or release them normally.

PCOS is usually diagnosed in women who are in their 20s or 30s and are having acne, an increase in dark hair growth, irregular periods, and weight gain. Often, signs of the condition include:

Irregular periods or amenorrhea
Increased hair growth on your chin or face
Hair loss that mimics male-pattern baldness
Acne
Weight gain

Treatment for PCOS may include hormonal birth control to regulate your period. For women trying to get pregnant, fertility medications or a referral to a fertility specialist are offered.

For more information about ovarian cysts, call Maurice Leibman, M.D. & Associates to set up an appointment, or book online today.