Ovarian cysts are common growths that form either on the surface or within your ovaries. They come in various types, with the most prevalent ones being benign, asymptomatic, and often resolving on their own without the need for treatment. In some cases, cysts can lead to complications necessitating surgical intervention. Should you have an ovarian cyst and wish to explore it in more detail, we recommend scheduling a consultation at any of our offices located in Westlake, Beachwood, or Middlefield.
Ovarian cysts come in various shapes and sizes developing on either one or both of your ovaries. These cysts typically consist of fluid, though their composition may vary based on their specific type. Most cysts originate as a part of the menstrual cycle. These commonly referred to as functional cysts are usually benign, causing little to no discomfort, and tend to naturally resolve over the course of several menstrual cycles. Functional cysts can be categorized into two groups: follicular cysts and corpus luteal cysts.
Every month, as a part of your menstrual cycle, a tiny sac in your ovary known as a follicle releases an egg. When the follicle fails to release an egg, it leads to the formation of a follicular cyst. Instead of releasing the egg, the follicle accumulates fluid and increases in size.
After the follicle releases the egg, it transforms into a group of cells that produce hormones called the corpus luteum. Fluid may accumulate within the corpus luteum resulting in the formation of a cyst.
Some ovarian cysts do not necessarily develop because of your menstrual cycle. These include:
Thankfully, most ovarian cysts are benign and often remain asymptomatic, resolving naturally. However, those that persist may necessitate medical attention. Indications of a persistent ovarian cyst with enduring symptoms may include:
The choice of treatment will be influenced by factors such as your age, the symptoms you experience, and the probable cause of your cyst. Treatment options include:
Usually, functional ovarian cysts resolve spontaneously and do not require treatment. This typically involves scheduling a follow-up ultrasound a few weeks or months after diagnosis to monitor whether the cyst has naturally disappeared.
Alternatively, our gynecologists may recommend the use of hormonal medications as a preventive measure against the formation of future ovarian cysts. It’s important to emphasize that this method does not address pre-existing cysts but is primarily a preventive measure.
In cases where a cyst is causing noticeable symptoms and is increasing in size, surgical intervention may be necessary for its removal. The choice of surgical procedure is contingent upon the cyst’s size and its appearance on ultrasound. The available surgical options include:
Laparoscopy: this surgical procedure is minimally invasive, involving the insertion of a camera through a small abdominal incision, similar in size to a keyhole. This camera allows our surgeons to thoroughly examine your pelvic organs. The ovarian cyst can be extracted through these keyhole-sized incisions, a method known as laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy. Recovery time following this procedure generally lasts for about 2 weeks.
Laparotomy: our surgeon may recommend this method in cases where the cyst is notably large or if there are other underlying concerns. This procedure entails a larger incision on your abdomen and is associated with a lengthier recovery period that can extend up to 6 weeks.
If you’re experiencing pelvic pain or discomfort, our team is here to evaluate the potential presence of an ovarian cyst. We can offer insights into treatment options available at our Westlake, Beachwood, or Middlefield offices.