Ovarian cyst treatment is not always necessary. Ovarian cysts are more common than you may think, and most of the time, they do not cause symptoms and go away on their own. However, sometimes, they cause troubling symptoms or are a sign of something more serious. When this happens, it might be time to turn to your gynecologist for help.
Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluid, more solid material, or a mix of both that form in or on the ovaries. The majority form and subside on their own without even being noticed. A woman may not even know she has one until her gynecologist discovers it during a pelvic exam. Most of these cysts form as a result of normal ovarian function, but some can be related to troubling conditions such as endometriosis or, in rare cases, ovarian cancer.
Troubling symptoms are usually what prompt women to seek ovarian cyst treatment from a gynecologist. Ovarian cysts are most likely to cause uncomfortable symptoms if they become too large, rupture or bleed, inhibit blood supply to the ovary, or cause the ovary to twist (torsion of the ovary). When this happens, a woman may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
Some patients may experience sudden and severe pelvic pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting. This can be a sign of a ruptured cyst, which is a medical emergency, especially if accompanied by fever, rapid breathing, or dizziness.
Most cysts do not call for a trip to the emergency room. However, if a cyst is causing trouble, it is a good idea to make an appointment with a gynecologist to address the symptoms and ensure the cyst is not a sign of somthing more serious. The gynecologist will perform a pelvic exam, ask the patient about their symptoms, and order diagnostic tests to determine if a cyst is causing the symptoms and what type of cyst it is.
Treatment will depend on what the gynecologist finds, the patient's age, symptoms, and the cause of the cyst.
Most cysts eventually resolve on their own. This is especially true for functional ovarian cysts or cysts that form as part of normal ovarian function. As long as the cyst is not making the patient uncomfortable, the gynecologist may suggest you follow up in a few weeks.
A doctor may be able to provide pain medication if the cyst is causing significant discomfort. Other treatments involve hormonal treatments like birth control. Medications will not shrink existing cysts but can prevent the patient from developing new ones.
If the cyst is large, not functional, possibly cancerous, or causing extreme pain, a gynecologist may recommend surgery. Often, a cyst can be removed with a minimally invasive surgery technique called laparoscopy. It is often possible to remove the cyst and leave the ovary intact. However, in some cases, more invasive surgery or removal of the ovary is required.
Most ovarian cysts go away on their own and are not a cause for concern. However, it is wise to seek a medical evaluation if you are experiencing troubling symptoms or have any concerns. If you have more questions about ovarian cysts and treatment for them, call us today.
Request an appointment here: https://eckhardtobgyn.com or call Donald Eckhardt Jr., M.D. , Kari Eckhardt W.H.N.P., C.N.M. at (346) 201-4716 for an appointment in our Tomball office.
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