Ovarian Cysts
About the service
Most ovarian cysts are small and don't cause symptoms; women may not know they have them until they have a pelvic exam.
How is an ovarian cyst diagnosed?
We will first rule out pregnancy as the cause of your symptoms. Then, we may use the following tests to diagnose an ovarian cyst:
- A pelvic exam: Your provider will feel inside your pelvis for any lumps or changes.
- Ultrasound: This imaging procedure uses sound waves to create images of your body's internal organs. It can detect cysts on your ovaries, including their location and whether they're primarily fluid or solid.
- Laparoscopy: This is a procedure performed in an operating room. We insert a camera through an incision (cut) in your abdomen, and we can view your reproductive organs and pelvic cavity. If we can diagnose a cyst, we can remove it.
How is an ovarian cyst treated?
Treatment will depend on factors like age, symptoms, and what's likely causing your cyst.
- Watchful waiting
Functional ovarian cysts usually go away without treatment. If your cyst is likely functional, we may suggest a wait-and-see approach. You may have a follow-up ultrasound within a few weeks or months after your diagnosis to see if your cyst has resolved.
- Ovarian cyst medications
we may give you medications containing hormones (such as birth control pills) to stop ovulation and prevent future cysts from forming.
- Ovarian cyst surgery
If a cyst is causing symptoms and getting more extensive, you may need surgery to remove it. The surgery type depends on the cyst's size and how it appears on the ultrasound. The different procedures used include:
- Laparoscopy is a procedure where your provider inserts a tiny camera through a small incision in your abdomen. We view your reproductive organs and pelvic cavity using the device. The ovarian cyst can be removed through tiny incisions (ovarian cystectomy).
- Laparotomy: We may perform this procedure if the cyst is vast or there are other concerns.
If we suspect cancer, we may consult with a cancer specialist or gynecological oncologist about the best treatment options for you.
