Ovarian Cysts

As is the case with uterine fibroids, most women will develop at least one ovarian cyst in their lifetime. In most cases, these cysts do not cause pain or other symptoms. The cysts often go away on their own, without treatment, within a few weeks or months. Sometimes, however, ovarian cysts can cause mild to severe abdominal pain, pressure, and inflammation.

The presence of many small ovarian cysts is often associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). For women with PCOS, there are often so many cysts, it causes the ovaries to become enlarged. PCOS can lead to infertility.

What Are Ovarian Cysts?

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs of tissue that can occur in numerous places throughout the body. Most cysts are noncancerous – and benign ovarian cysts will not develop into cancer. Most cysts do not affect a woman’s fertility, or ability to become pregnant.

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The majority of cysts that develop in the ovaries occur when either:

  • A follicle within an ovary fails to release an egg during ovulation – instead, the follicle remains shut, with fluid inside it, becoming a cyst
  • A follicle within an ovary releases an egg during ovulation, but instead of dissolving, the follicle remains in the ovary, its opening seals shut, and it (along with the fluid inside it) becomes a cyst

There are other types of cysts that may develop in the ovaries, including cysts that develop when tissue that typically lines the uterus begins to grow outside the uterus (a condition called endometriosis), such as in the ovaries. Women with endometriosis may experience difficulty becoming pregnant.

Signs & Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

You should contact your OB-GYN if you suspect you may have ovarian cysts based on the following signs and symptoms:

  • Pelvic pain, especially just before or during your period
  • Bloating or swelling of the abdomen
  • Pain during sex
  • Pain during bowel movements
  • Pain in the lower back

If you have ovarian cysts and experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, especially if accompanied by a fever or lightheadedness, you may be experiencing a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion (an unnatural twisting of an ovary). A cyst that ruptures can cause internal bleeding. Ovarian torsion can stop blood flow to the ovary, which can lead to ovary tissue death. These conditions are considered medical emergencies requiring immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing & Treating Ovarian Cysts

Your Women’s HealthFirst OB-GYN provider may notice swelling of an ovary during a pelvic exam, either during your regular well-woman visit or during a visit to investigate pelvic pain or other symptoms.

Gynecological ultrasound can confirm the presence of ovarian cysts. For more details about cyst location, number, and size, your provider may order additional diagnostic testing such as a CT scan or MRI. Your doctor may also order blood tests to check your hormone levels and to screen for ovarian cancer, depending on your risk for the disease.

Treating ovarian cysts that are causing significant symptoms centers on shrinking or removing the cysts.

  • If the cysts are small enough, this may be performed via a minimally invasive laparoscopic A laparoscopy may be used to simultaneously diagnose and treat bothersome ovarian cysts. A biopsy may be taken during the procedure to confirm or rule out ovarian cancer.
  • If the cysts are large, a more traditional type of surgery, called a laparotomy, may be performed. In the event ovarian cysts are cancerous, treatment may include a hysterectomy that also removes the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

Ovarian cysts cannot be prevented, although some hormone-based contraceptives can stop ovulation and prevent the growth of additional cysts.

When Your OB-GYN May Recommend Surgery

Surgery to remove ovarian cysts may be recommended if you have:

  • Large or numerous cysts that are causing symptoms
  • Cysts in both ovaries
  • Large cysts
  • An increased risk of ovarian cancer, such as being menopausal or post-menopausal

Ovarian Cysts? You Have Treatment Options

If you have or suspect you may have ovarian cysts, ask your OB-GYN provider what treatment options may be best for you. Call Women’s HealthFirst, with 5 locations in northwest suburban Chicago, at (847) 808-8884 to schedule your visit. You can also request an appointment now. Are you an existing Women’s HealthFirst patient? Use the convenient online patient portal to request an appointment, message your care team, and more.