Ovarian Cyst Specialist

What is an ovarian cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a growth, usually benign, that develops on one of your ovaries. These growths are full of fluid and can rupture or burst, resulting in severe symptoms for some women. 

Your ovaries are the organs in your reproductive system that produce and release eggs, so having many cysts on them or avoiding treatment for growing cysts could affect your fertility. 

The majority of women get at least one or two cysts in their lifetimes, but others get many ovarian cysts because of a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). 

If Dr. Fan detects a cyst on one of your ovaries, he either takes a wait-and-see approach to see if it grows or becomes more severe or recommends treatment right away. There are a few different types of cysts, and Dr. Fan can tell you which type you have after a detailed evaluation.

What are the symptoms of an ovarian cyst?

Some ovarian cysts, especially small or young cysts, don’t cause any symptoms and are only detectable during a pelvic examination or imaging test. 

Dr. Fan uses ultrasound imaging to evaluate ovarian cysts he finds during routine examinations. As a cyst grows, you might experience symptoms like:

• Pelvic pain
• Painful bowel movements
• Abdominal swelling, fullness, or bloating
• Painful intercourse
• Nausea and vomiting

You need to seek treatment right away if you experience these symptoms, along with a fever or symptoms of shock. 

Most cysts go away on their own without treatment, but others grow and become more severe. Possible complications can occur from ovarian cysts, including ruptured cysts with internal bleeding, ovarian torsion, or cancerous cystic ovarian masses. All of these complications are rare. 

How are ovarian cysts treated?

Treatments aim to shrink ovarian cysts or remove them altogether. Dr. Fan recommends treatment based on the size of your cyst, the number of cysts you have, and other factors, like your own preferences or any other diagnoses. Some of the most common treatment options are:

Hormonal birth control

Hormonal birth control regulates your hormones to stop ovulation. When you don’t ovulate, ovarian cysts don’t have the chance to grow. Contraceptives also lower your risk for ovarian cancer.

Minimally invasive surgery

A minimally invasive surgical technique called laparoscopy lets Dr. Fan remove an ovarian cyst through a tiny incision in your abdomen. 

Ovarian cysts are usually harmless, but pain or other symptoms might lead you to seek treatment. Schedule your appointment by calling Yuan-Da Fan, MD, or booking one online today.