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:
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 .
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
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 .

At Northwestern Women's Health Associates
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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.Success Stories
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Jen Weitz
"Wonderful experience with Dr. Julianne Morton @ NW Women's Associates. I've recommended her to countless girlfriends. Being a first time mom, I went through many physical symptoms and emotions that accompany pregnancy. She is extremely thorough, patient, and has wonderful bedside manner. I felt confident going into delivery with Dr. Morton taking the lead with my delivery. Wonderful practice!"
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Melissa P.
"Dr. Morton is absolutely amazing. She cared for me throughout my first pregnancy and we found her to be kind and caring and straightforward - could not have asked for a better experience! Dr. Dunn ended up being on call during my delivery and she was great as well. I have always found the nurses and office staff to be friendly and on top of things - very happy with the practice!"
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Jeanne S.
"I had to have a laproscopic hysterectomy done by Dr. Friedell and all went fabulously! They were very detailed in pre-op which made a lot of difference. I came out of surgery feeling great and post op I was back to work within two weeks. Everyone at the practice, at the hospital, at pre-op were incredible."
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Kelly C.
"Dr.Julianne Morton is amazing! I was recommended by a friend when I moved to the Chicago area and was looking for an OB-GYN. I have seen her for two years in Chicago for my yearly exam. She is beyond kind and great at what she does. Dr.Morton makes you feel very comfortable and is such an incredible doctor! I have recommended her to all of my friends as well who need a new gyno/OB-GYN."
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