Ovarian cysts may sound like a serious reproductive health condition, but in fact, they’re common and usually not symptomatic, and often disappear over time. You may never know you’ve had a cyst.
When ovarian cysts grow larger, it’s more likely you’ll experience symptoms. While certain circumstances could require immediate medical attention, in most cases, a visit with Dr. John A. Whitfield, MD, and his team in Fort Worth, Texas, is enough to get a handle on your condition, provided your cysts aren’t developing complications.
Here’s what you should know about ovarian cysts, when they can become dangerous, and when you should have surgery to remove problem cysts.
The most common type of ovarian cyst is called a functional cyst because it results from the activity of your menstrual cycle. Ovaries grow a type of cyst called a follicle, which gathers hormones to control ovulation, releasing an egg into the fallopian tubes.
Follicular cysts don’t break open to release the egg and instead keep growing. A corpus luteum cyst releases the egg, but the opening becomes blocked and collects fluid, resulting in a cyst.
Functional cysts are usually harmless, without symptoms, and can disappear within a few months.
Ovarian cysts unrelated to the menstrual cycle are much less common. These are:
Cystadenomas and dermoid cysts can grow large, causing the ovary to move out of position, a condition called ovarian torsion. This can be painful, reducing or even stopping blood flow to the ovary. Larger cysts are also more prone to rupture, causing pain and pelvic bleeding.
While ovarian cysts don’t often cause problems, there are situations when removal becomes necessary. Endometriomas can sometimes interfere with fertility, as does polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a leading cause of infertility that can contribute to the growth of ovarian cysts.
Cysts are often detected during pelvic exams and followed up with an ultrasound to give a clearer picture of your condition. Surgical removal of a cyst may be necessary when the cyst:
Surgical procedures for ovarian cysts include laparoscopic techniques to minimize incision size and impact on your body, though sometimes big cysts may require alternate approaches.
Contact Dr. John A. Whitfield, MD, at his Fort Worth practice by calling 817-927-2229 to make an appointment today.
