Comprehensive Details About
Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts are sacs, usually filled with fluid, in an ovary or on its surface. Females have two ovaries. One ovary is located on each side of the uterus.
The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system. They’re located in the lower abdomen on both sides of the uterus. Women have two ovaries that produce eggs as well as the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Sometimes, a fluid-filled sac called a cyst will develop on one of the ovaries. Many women will develop at least one cyst during their lifetime.
Each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond. Eggs develop and mature in the ovaries. Eggs are released in monthly cycles during the childbearing years.
Ovarian cysts are common. Most of the time, you have little or no discomfort, and the cysts are harmless. Most cysts go away without treatment within a few months.
But sometimes ovarian cysts can become twisted or burst open (rupture). This can cause serious symptoms. To protect your health, get regular pelvic exams and know the symptoms that can signal what might be a serious problem.
What Symptoms Develop Due to Ovarian Cysts?
Most ovarian cysts are small and don’t cause any problems. When there are symptoms, you might have pressure, bloating, swelling, or pain in one side of your lower belly. This pain may be sharp or dull, and it can come and go.
Sometimes, a cyst needs emergency attention. See your doctor right away if you have:
- Sudden, severe belly pain
- Pain with fever and throwing up
- Dizziness, weakness, or feeling faint
- Fast breathing
Ovarian Cyst Causes
Most cysts are “functional.” They’re a part of your monthly cycle.
- Follicle cyst. Your ovaries usually release one egg each month. It grows inside a tiny sac called a follicle. When the egg is ready, the follicle breaks open and releases it. If the sac doesn’t open, it causes a follicle cyst. These often go away in 1 to 3 months.
- Corpus luteum cyst. Once the egg is released, the empty follicle usually shrinks and helps get ready for the next egg. It becomes a cyst when it closes back up and fluid collects inside. It may go away in a few weeks. But it may bleed or cause pain as it grows.
Others are nonfunctional. In some women, their ovaries make a lot of small cysts. This condition is called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It can make it hard to get pregnant. Other nonfunctional cysts may be caused by cancer. Ovarian cysts in women after menopause (once your period has stopped) are more likely to be cancerous than those in younger women.
How are Ovarian Cysts Treated?
Your doctor at VERITAS OBGYN may monitor cysts that are small and don’t cause symptoms. When they get too large, your doctor may prescribe a medication that prevents future cysts from forming or helps to shrink existing cysts.
When your symptoms are severe or your cysts continue to enlarge, you may need minimally invasive surgery to remove the cysts. An uncommon type of ovarian cyst called an endometrioma often requires surgery because these cysts can destroy the ovary and increase your risk for cancer.
Any time you have pelvic pain or heavy periods, schedule an appointment either online or by calling VERITAS OBGYN.
Our Specialists
Virginia Elizabeth Mclean, MD, FACOG
Dr. Virginia McLean, MD is an Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialist in New York, NY. Her office accepts telehealth appointments.
Dr. Mclean graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina College of Medicine in 2014. She works in Port Jefferson Station, NY and 8 other locations and specializes in Obstetrics & Gynecology.
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