Ovarian Cysts Specialist | Ovarian Cancer
While most ovarian cysts are benign, it’s important to monitor them once they’ve been detected. If one does require surgical removal, you should always be made aware of your minimally-invasive options.
At the Advanced Women’s Health Institute, we’re committed to educating you on the least-invasive options available to you, including cyst removal. We’ll listen and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that works for you.
If you’re concerned about an ovarian cyst, schedule an appointment with us today.
FAQs on Ovarian Cysts
What is an ovarian cyst?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs within the ovary. They may be physiologic or pathologic. Cysts are classified as simple or complex. Simple cysts appear on ultrasound as round, black circles inside the ovary, while complex cysts have internal structures.
I have cysts in my ovaries, what should I do?
Many ultrasound reports state there are “cysts in the ovaries”. This statement can be alarming to a nonmedical person. Follicles are the units within the ovary that contain the egg. They are fluid filled and are technically cysts. But they are supposed to be there and come and go each cycle. We will explain the ultrasound findings in detail without using misleading terms. We start with a thorough history, put the ultrasound findings into perspective and then discuss rational treatment.
How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?
Ultrasound is the recommended technology to diagnose cysts by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. CT and/or MRI are unnecessary and overly expensive.
If a cyst is detected, will I need surgery?
Not necessarily. Simple cysts may be physiologic and go away on their own. There is no need to rush to surgery. A persistent simple cyst in a premenopausal woman is most likely benign. Some cysts can be drained by ultrasound. A complex cyst may also be followed to make sure it is indeed pathologic.
What if I’m postmenopausal and have a cyst?
Simple cysts in postmenopausal women, even larger ones, can be followed without surgery if the Ca 125 is normal. The only time surgery is necessary is if the cyst grows.
If my cyst needs to be removed, what are my treatment options?
If the cyst is causing problems or grows over time, then it should be removed. Ovarian cysts are almost always benign in premenopausal women. There is no need to operate immediately unless there is a problem.
Some doctors will recommend removing the ovary instead of the cyst. This should be a red flag to get a second opinion here at AWHI. There is seldom a reason to remove the ovary. This is generally an indication of a less experienced doctor.
The most important question to ask the doctor is whether or not they suture laparoscopically. This is extremely important if you have endometrioma. Endometriomas bleed more than any other cyst. Cauterizing bleeding in the cyst bed will damage the follicles and harm future fertility. Suturing avoids ovarian damage. We will refer you to a surgeon who will suture the cyst closed.
