Ovarian Cysts

In the female anatomy are two ovaries, almond-shaped sacs where eggs develop and mature. Many women, at some point, develop an ovarian cyst, a fluid-filled pocket that forms inside or on the surface of one of the ovaries. An ovarian cyst is not indicative of ovarian cancer. In fact, most cysts are harmless and produce little discomfort if any at all. Within a few months of development, a cyst is likely to disappear on its own, if it is physiologic and normal.

There are instances, however, when an ovarian cyst may produce uncomfortable symptoms. One of the best ways to protect your health and learn about ovarian cysts is to maintain regular well-woman visits with your Chicago gynecologist. Examination is warranted if you experience symptoms such as:

Pain in the pelvic area before or after your period
Persistent pelvic pain, whether sharp or dull
Dyspareunia, a condition in which pelvic pain occurs during intercourse
Breast tenderness and nausea, similar to what is experienced in pregnancy
A heavy or full feeling in the abdomen
Frequent urination or difficulty fully emptying the bladder
Painful bowel movements or a feeling of fullness in the bowels

Your doctor is concerned with identifying the type of cysts that has been detected because of symptoms or during a routine examination and providing treatment if necessary to prevent complications such as rupture. Diagnostic testing will seek to discern the size of the cyst and its composition. Fluid-filled cysts are most often harmless. Cysts that are solid or partially so may require further evaluation using advanced imaging or technology.

Some of the diagnostic tests that may be performed to evaluate an ovarian cyst include a pregnancy test, pelvic ultrasound, CA 125 (in post-menopausal women), and laparoscopy. The procedure performed by your gynecologist in our Chicago women's health practice will be dependent on various factors, including existing symptoms.

In the same way, treatment will also be tailored to specific results of diagnostic testing. Not every symptomatic ovarian cyst requires removal. In some cases, prescription birth control pills will have a positive effect on a cyst and the affected ovary. Sometimes all we need to do is monitor the cyst. Surgical removal of a cyst may be necessary if a cyst persists for several months, grows larger, or produces pain.

Northwestern Women's Health Associates S.C. treats women from the Chicago area and well beyond. To receive outstanding gynecological care, call .

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Making use of advanced technology and staying on the cutting edge of women’s healthcare, our team of experts is dedicated to providing every woman who visits our office with the highest level of sensitive, specialized care. At our office in Chicago, you can receive exceptional obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) services from any one of our highly skilled doctors, including Stanley Friedell, MD; Marc Feldstein, MD; Abbie Roth, MD; Regina Belmonte, MD; Sharon Wise, MD; Julianne Morton, MD; Whitney Dunn, MD; Aleena Lakhanpal, MD ; and Margaret Kistner, MD. With their combined expertise, this team of board-certified doctors at Northwestern Women's Health Associates makes it possible for you to receive efficient, personalized care from the preeminent women’s hospital in the Midwest.

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Ovarian Cysts

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