Ovarian cysts are a pretty common condition that many women experience at some point in their lives. While they may sound scary, most ovarian cysts are harmless and go away on their own. But it’s important to know the signs, understand when to see a doctor, and explore your treatment options. If you’re curious to learn more, keep reading—we’ve got you covered!

What Are Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on or inside your ovaries. Think of them as tiny bubbles that can sometimes form during your monthly cycle. There are different types of cysts, and while many are harmless, others might require medical attention.

Common Types of Ovarian Cysts

• Functional Cysts – These are the most common and usually form during ovulation. They often go away on their own within a few weeks.
• Dermoid Cysts and Cystadenomas – These are less common and could grow larger over time.
• Endometriomas – These cysts develop if you have endometriosis, a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it.

Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

Most of the time, ovarian cysts don’t cause symptoms. You might not even know you have one unless your doctor spots it during a routine checkup. However, certain symptoms can suggest the presence of a cyst. These include:

• Pelvic pain (often on one side)
• Bloating or pressure in the abdomen
• Changes in your menstrual cycle
• Difficulty with bowel movements or feeling full quickly when eating
• Pain during intercourse

If you experience sudden and severe pain or notice symptoms like fever, vomiting, or dizziness, you should seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a ruptured cyst or other complications.

Diagnosis

The good news? Fully diagnosing ovarian cysts is pretty simple and painless. Your doctor may use the following tools to confirm whether you have a cyst:

• Ultrasound – This is the most common way to take a closer look at the ovaries and identify any cysts.
• Blood Tests – Especially if your doctor suspects the cyst could be related to another condition, such as endometriosis or in rare cases, ovarian cancer.
• CT Scans or MRIs – These imaging techniques might be used if more detail is needed.

Treatment Options

The approach to treating ovarian cysts depends on their size, type, and whether they’re causing symptoms. Here are the common treatment options:

• Watch and Wait – For small, functional cysts that aren’t causing problems, your doctor might recommend monitoring the cysts over time. Many cysts shrink or disappear on their own.
• Medications – Your doctor may prescribe hormonal birth control to prevent new cysts from forming. This method won’t shrink existing cysts but is effective for prevention.
• Surgery – If the cyst is large, painful, or doesn’t go away on its own, surgery might be recommended to remove it. Procedures like laparoscopy (minimally invasive surgery) are often used to treat cysts.
• Lifestyle Adjustments – Though it won’t directly affect the cyst, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support your overall health and help manage certain symptoms. Eating a balanced diet and staying active can go a long way.

When to See a Doctor

It’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you’re dealing with persistent pelvic pain, irregular periods, or other symptoms that disrupt your daily life, it’s time to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications down the road.

Take Control of Your Health with Doral Health and Wellness

If you have concerns or questions about ovarian cysts, you don’t have to face them alone. At Doral Health & Wellness, we’re here to provide you with personalized care and expert guidance. From diagnosis to treatment, our team of professionals is dedicated to supporting your health and well-being.

Don’t wait to take control of your health! Contact Doral Health and Wellness today to schedule an appointment or learn more about staying on top of your ovarian health. Your well-being is our priority!

Taking care of your health is empowering, and understanding something like ovarian cysts is a great first step. Always remember that you’re not alone in this. With the right knowledge and the right team of healthcare professionals, you’re equipped to handle whatever comes your way.