Ovarian Cysts

What are ovarian cysts?

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop anywhere on your body, including your ovaries. Ovarian cysts refer to fluid-filled sacs that occur on or near the ovaries. They’re very common, especially in women with normal ovulation schedules.

Most ovarian cysts develop during the menstrual cycle and resolve on their own without you even knowing it. 

What are the types of ovarian cysts?

There are many types of ovarian cysts. The most common are the ones that occur during ovulation, including:

Follicle cysts

During ovulation, your ovaries release a follicle that contains an egg. As the egg matures, it breaks free of the follicle in anticipation of fertilization.

If your egg fails to break free from the follicle, it continues to grow and turns into a follicle cyst. Follicle cysts rarely cause symptoms and resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles. 

Corpus luteum cysts

When your egg breaks free from the follicle, it leaves behind a mass of cells called the corpus luteum that releases hormones that stimulate your next menstrual cycle. 

In some instances, the corpus luteum reseals itself and fills with fluid, creating a corpus luteum cyst. These cysts don’t always cause problems, but they can grow large and cause your ovaries to twist. 

What are ovarian cyst symptoms?

Ovarian cysts don’t always cause symptoms. However, some of the symptoms you may experience with an ovarian cyst include:

• Pelvic pain
• Abdominal bloating
• Increase in pain during menstruation
• Pain during intercourse
• Unexplained weight gain
• Lower back or leg pain
• Increased urination

Ovarian cysts can also cause your ovaries to twist, which may cause sharp pain along with nausea and vomiting. 

Your ovarian cyst may also rupture, causing severe, unexpected pain. A ruptured ovarian cyst requires immediate medical care. If you’re experiencing severe pelvic pain, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911. 

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

The experienced team at Philadelphia Women's Health & Wellness may incidentally find an ovarian cyst during your annual wellness exam. To confirm a diagnosis, the team may request an ultrasound.

How are ovarian cysts treated?

Treatment for your ovarian cysts depends on your symptoms, as well as the size and location of the cyst. In most cases, ovarian cysts resolve on their own over time, and the team may suggest monitoring your cyst with regular follow-up appointments and ultrasound testing. 

To manage some of the physical symptoms, the team at Philadelphia Women's Health & Wellness may recommend:

• Hormonal birth control to manage ovulation
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Over-the-counter pain medication

If your symptoms worsen or your ovarian cyst grows larger, the team may recommend surgery to remove the cyst. 

For comprehensive ovarian cyst management, contact Philadelphia Women's Health & Wellness by phone or online today.