Ovarian cysts are common in women
Ovarian cysts are pouches filled with fluid or other tissue, located in or on an ovary. Occurring commonly in women during their reproductive years and menopause, our San Antonio OBGYNs reassure women that the majority of cysts in the ovaries are benign (not cancerous).
There are four primary types of cysts: functional cysts, teratomas, cystadenomas and endometriomas. Hormonal problems, pregnancy, endometriosis and pelvic infections are the most common causes.
Women often experience no symptoms
Frequently, there are no symptoms, and a woman doesn’t know she has cysts until her OBGYN finds them during a routine pelvic exam. If symptoms are present, these are the most common.
- Pelvic pain
- Ache in the lower back
- Painful intercourse
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Bloating
- Painful bowel movements
Finding cysts in the ovaries
How are ovarian cysts diagnosed? If cysts are suspected, the first step toward diagnosis is a pelvic exam. An ultrasound can provide images of cysts, allowing the OBGYN to see the size, shape and location of the cysts. The doctor may do blood tests to check the woman’s hormone levels and CA 125 level. For women in menopause, high CA 125 levels could indicate a higher risk of ovarian cancer. A pregnancy test may also be done.
Can cysts be treated?
As many cysts resolve on their own, the doctor may simply recheck within a few months. If the cysts do not go away, treatment options are available.
Oral birth control medication may be given to reduce the number of ovarian cysts that develop; however, it will not eliminate existing cysts.
If cysts are large or cause symptoms, surgery may be done to remove them. Surgical decisions are made based on the size, location and number of cysts in the ovaries. A woman’s desire to become pregnant is also considered in decisions about surgery.
A minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery allows the doctor to remove ovarian cysts using a tool called a laparoscope, which is inserted through tiny incisions. It has a camera at the end of a long tube that enables the OBGYN to view the inside of the pelvis, as well as small instruments used to perform the procedure.
In cases in which a cyst is very large or cancer is suspected, the doctor may perform a laparotomy. This surgery utilizes a larger incision and allows the OBGYN greater access to the pelvic organs.
Don’t let symptoms go unchecked
For most women, ovarian cysts come and go, and never affect their daily lives. However, if you are experiencing symptoms or have recurring cysts, contact our San Antonio OBGYNS for an appointment.
