Ovarian Cysts and Treatment Options
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on or inside the ovaries. They are common and usually harmless, but sometimes they can cause symptoms or complications.
Diagnosis of Ovarian Cysts
An ovarian cyst is usually diagnosed during a routine pelvic examination or an imaging test, such as a pelvic ultrasound. Depending on the size and appearance of the cyst, Dr Lorenzo may recommend further tests to determine its type and whether you need treatment. These tests may include:
- Pregnancy test: To rule out an early pregnancy or a corpus luteum cyst, which is a normal cyst that develops after ovulation.
- Laparoscopy: A surgical procedure where a thin, camera-containing instrument is inserted into your abdomen to view your ovaries and any cysts. If a cyst is found, it can be removed during the same procedure.
- Blood test: To check the levels of hormones, such as estrogen, and a protein called cancer antigen 125 (CA 125), which may be elevated in ovarian cancer.
- Tumor marker tests: To detect other proteins or substances that may indicate ovarian cancer.
Treatment Options for Ovarian Cysts
The treatment for ovarian cysts depends on several factors, such as your age, symptoms, the type and size of the cyst, and your fertility plans. Your doctor may suggest one of the following options:
- Watchful waiting: In many cases, you can wait and be reexamined to see if the cyst goes away on its own in a few months. This is usually an option for small, fluid-filled cysts that do not cause symptoms or complications.
- Hormonal contraceptives: Birth control pills or other hormonal methods can prevent ovulation and reduce the risk of developing new cysts. However, they will not shrink an existing cyst.
- Surgery: Your doctor may recommend removing a cyst that is large, solid, persistent, or causes pain or other problems. Some cysts can be removed without removing the ovary (cystectomy), while others may require removing the affected ovary (oophorectomy) or the entire reproductive system (hysterectomy). Surgery can be done using minimally invasive techniques (laparoscopy) or open surgery.
Conclusion
Ovarian cysts are common and usually benign, but they can sometimes cause discomfort or complications. If you have an ovarian cyst, you should consult with us at Complete Healthcare for Women - Dr. Lorenzo and Kortney Jones ARNP for diagnosis and treatment options.
Regular pelvic exams can help detect any changes in your ovaries and prevent serious problems.
