Ovarian Cysts
What are ovarian cysts?
The ovaries are two organs located in your pelvic region, near the uterus. They have two functions: to produce eggs for fertilisation and to create reproductive hormones.
Much like other parts of the body, ovaries can form cysts. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in or on the ovary.
They are common in women of reproductive age because, as the egg matures for ovulation, fluid collects and forms a follicle. If the follicle does not shrink or rupture after ovulation, cysts can form.
Types of ovarian cysts
Follicular Cysts
When the ovarian follicle does not release an egg and fails to rupture at ovulation, it forms a sac of fluid (cyst). These cysts usually go away within a few months.
Dermoid Cysts
Dermoid cysts (teratomas) are one of the most common types of cysts found in women aged 20-40. A dermoid cyst is made up of ovarian germ cells and can contain teeth, hair or fat. Most dermoid cysts are benign, but rarely, they can be cancerous.
Cystadenomas
Cystadenomas are among the most common benign ovarian cysts. They can contain serous or mucinous fluid and can range in size from 5cm to 20cm, sometimes growing quickly.
Endometriomas (chocolate cysts)
An endometrioma is endometriosis of the ovaries. These cysts are filled with blood and can grow bigger over time.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Women with PCOS may also have small cysts. These cysts don’t need to be removed, however, those with PCOS may need treatment for other symptoms like irregular periods.
Ovarian Cancers
Most ovarian cysts are non-cancerous. Tumour marker blood tests are sometimes ordered to assess the risk of ovarian cancer when an ovarian mass is found.
Ovarian cyst symptoms
Ovarian cysts don’t always cause symptoms, but you may experience the following:
Abdominal bloating
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Pressure in your abdomen
Pain during urination
Pain during intercourse
Ovarian cyst diagnosis
As cysts often don’t show symptoms, you may not know they are there. They are often detected during a pelvic exam or ultrasound for another condition.
Ovarian cyst treatment
Most cysts will go away by themselves. In some cases, surgery may be recommended.
Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy
Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery is a minimally invasive surgery to remove cysts from ovaries. This may be required if cysts are causing symptoms.
Oophorectomy
If cysts are recurring and causing symptoms, the removal of one or both ovaries may be an option.
Has your doctor found an ovarian cyst?
If your doctor has found an ovarian cyst and you want to find out more, you can ask for a referral to see me.
I will assess the need for further testing, such as other imaging or blood tests.
Once we form a diagnosis, I’ll devise a treatment plan you’re comfortable with.