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Understanding ovarian cysts, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options is important to a woman’s health. Zoya Preys, MD, a board-certified OB/GYN in the Mid-Wilshire area of Los Angeles, California, can help detect and treat ovarian cysts that are symptomatic and at risk of rupture. Call today or use this website to book an appointment if you have questions about ovarian cysts.
Ovarian Cysts Q & A
What are ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form on or within the ovaries. They are a normal part of the menstrual cycle and vary in size from small to relatively large. The two main types of ovarian cysts are functional cysts, which develop during the menstrual cycle, and pathological cysts, which result from abnormal cell growth.
When should I seek evaluation for an ovarian cyst?
Many ovarian cysts are asymptomatic and resolve on their own without treatment. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Pelvic pain
- Bloating
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Pain during sexual intercourse
If a woman experiences persistent or severe symptoms, particularly sudden and severe pelvic pain, she should seek immediate medical evaluation as it could indicate a ruptured cyst or other complications.
How do you diagnose ovarian cysts?
Dr. Preys diagnoses ovarian cysts through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as pelvic ultrasound or MRI.
The specific tests and evaluation used depends on your symptoms and risk factors.
What are the treatment options for ovarian cysts?
The treatment approach for ovarian cysts depends on various factors, including the type and size of the cyst, the woman’s age, and her reproductive goals. Many functional cysts resolve on their own over time and do not require treatment.
Dr. Preys can help you manage pain and uncomfortable symptoms through over-the-counter pain medication or hormonal contraceptives to prevent new cysts from forming.
She may recommend surgery if a cyst is large, causing severe pain, or if there are concerns about its potential to be cancerous. In such cases, she’ll remove the cyst through minimally invasive surgery, such as laparoscopy.
Can ovarian cysts affect fertility?
Ovarian cysts can affect fertility, but this is more likely with certain types of cysts, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). If you’re trying to conceive, seek guidance from a health care provider like Dr. Preys if you have a history of ovarian cysts or experience fertility challenges. In some cases, she may recommend cysts be managed or surgically removed to improve fertility prospects.
Contact the office of Zoya Preys, MD, to make an appointment to learn more about ovarian cysts and their treatment. Call today or use this website to book your visit.