Ovarian cysts are a common occurrence, and many women may develop and resolve them without ever noticing. However, approximately 8% of women experience ovarian cysts that grow large enough to cause discomfort and other symptoms. At Arcadia Ob/Gyn in New York, board-certified gynecologist Robert Berg, MD, offers expert care for ovarian cysts and other gynecological conditions.
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms in or on the ovaries. While there are different types of ovarian cysts, the most common are functional cysts, which include:
● Follicle Cyst: During a normal menstrual cycle, the ovaries release an egg from a follicle that eventually dissolves. However, if the egg fails to break free, a follicle cyst can form. These are typically harmless and disappear on their own within a few menstrual cycles.● Corpus Luteum Cyst: After an egg is released, the follicle normally shrinks into a structure called the corpus luteum. If it does not shrink properly, a cyst can develop, sometimes growing large enough to cause discomfort or ovarian twisting.
Other types of ovarian cysts include endometriomas, dermoids, and cystadenomas, which may require further evaluation and treatment.
Not all ovarian cysts cause symptoms, and many are only discovered during a routine gynecological exam at Arcadia Ob/Gyn. However, some cysts can lead to:● Pelvic pain.● Painful intercourse.● Lower back or thigh pain.● Discomfort during menstruation.● Increased urinary urgency or difficulty urinating.● Unexplained weight gain.● Breast tenderness.
In some cases, a cyst may rupture, leading to sudden, severe abdominal pain. If you suspect a rupture, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or visiting the nearest emergency room.
Dr. Berg conducts thorough examinations during your visit and utilizes advanced diagnostic tools at Arcadia Ob/Gyn to provide timely and accurate results. If a cyst is suspected based on your symptoms or during a pelvic exam, an ultrasound may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment depends on the size, type, and severity of your symptoms. In many cases, ovarian cysts resolve on their own, requiring only periodic monitoring through ultrasound.
However, if a cyst persists, grows in size, or causes significant discomfort, Dr. Berg may recommend surgical removal. He specializes in laparoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure that allows for a quicker recovery and minimal scarring.