Ovarian Cysts Specialist

What are Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs which have formed in or on the ovaries. Frequently cysts are benign, or non-cancerous, and many will dissipate on their own. However, some cysts can cause pain, and though it is rare, some may be cancerous. Some women’s ovaries produce multiple small cysts, which is known as polycystic ovary syndrome and this can cause problems within the ovaries and when trying to become pregnant.

What Causes Ovarian Cysts?

Commonly, ovarian cysts are caused by:

• Hormonal Issues- Medications which assist with ovulation and hormonal fluctuations can cause functional cysts which usually dissipate.
• Pregnancy- Early on during pregnancy, a cyst forms to assist the fetus while the placenta is forming. Typically, these cysts disappear, however if they persist they made need to be removed.
• Severe Infections in the Pelvis- When an infection spread to the ovaries or fallopian tubes it can cause cysts.
• Endometriosis- Women who have been diagnosed with endometriosis may develop cysts called endometriomas which attach to the ovary and form a growth. These cysts can be very painful.

How are Ovarian Cysts Treated?

Cysts which do not go away, grow in size, cause pain, or look unusual on an ultrasound may need to be removed via surgery. It is estimated that approximately, 5-10% of women undergo surgery to remove a cyst. If surgery is required to remove a cyst, it may be performed one of two ways:

• Laparoscopy- This type of surgery is used for smaller cysts which look benign and is performed by making a small incision near the patient’s navel.
• Laparotomy- If the cyst is larger or looks cancerous, the doctor may use this method. During this surgery a larger incision is made and the cyst is tested for cancerous tissue. If the cyst is cancerous it is possible that the ovary and other tissues may also need to be removed.