Symptoms of ovarian cysts and treatment options near Munster and northwest Indiana
Munster and northwest Indiana residents turn to Northwestern Women’s Health Associates for diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cysts.
What is an ovarian cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a sac that forms in or on the ovary. For most women, ovarian cysts never cause any symptoms and disappear on their own. Many women will get at least one larger cyst in their lifetimes. Larger cysts may cause abdominal pain or fullness, nausea, pain during sex, or the urge to urinate.
Functional cysts
Functional cysts are the most common and form during the regular menstrual cycle. During menstruation, the ovaries grow follicles each month. These follicles release eggs during ovulation. For some women, the structures continue to grow forming a functional cyst either before the egg is released or bleeding into the are the egg was released from . Functional cysts may be follicular cysts or corpus luteum cysts. Both types are generally small, painless, and disappear within a couple menstrual cycles.
Less common cysts
Less common cysts include dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, and endometriomas. These cysts do not occur as part of the normal menstrual cycle.
There is a possibility that a cyst may indicate cancer. A fluid-filled cyst is generally non-cancerous while a sold cyst may be a tumor.
Treating ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts may be diagnosed during a pelvic exam or vaginal ultrasound. Depending upon your symptoms or the type of cyst, your doctor may choose to monitor it to see if it goes away on its own. Surgical removal may be recommended for the following reasons:
- Larger than three inches
- Has not gone away after a few months
- Has the possibility of turning into a tumor
Ovarian cysts generally do not cause problems. However, if you are experiencing severe pelvic pain combined with fever, nausea, and vomiting, contact your doctor, as you could have an infection.
For more information, contact Northwestern Women’s Health Associates 312-440-9400
