Hope For Ovarian Cyst Patients

Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluid and they are formed if the egg is not released during the woman's menstrual cycle. They are very common among women of all ages. The most typical types of cysts are follicular cysts. They are usually harmless and generally disappear after ovulation.

Another, rarer type of cysts is Corpus Luteum. These types of cysts develop exceptionally after the egg is released from the woman's ovary. Smokers are at higher risk of having Corpus Luteum cysts. Third type of cysts is called endometriomas. They can cause very intense pelvic pain.

When women begin to show signs of cysts a doctor will take a closer look at what is going on. Symptoms can be anywhere from mild to extreme pain. Irregular periods, pressure, and painful sex can be symptoms, as well.

Diagnosing a cyst is usually done through trans-vaginal ultrasound. Other methods can also be used such as CT or MRI. Once diagnosed a physician will determine which ovarian cyst treatment is best for the specific patient.

One typical treatment for ovarian cysts is to start taking birth control pills. In this way, a hormonal imbalance can be corrected. Also, painkillers may be prescribed to relieve the pain when it starts.

Surgeries for cysts are advised in certain situations. If both ovaries have masses, then an oophorectomy may be recommended. This is the removal of both ovaries to prevent further masses from forming.

When a cyst reaches a size greater than 3 inches or doesn't disappear after 2 to 3 months, surgical intervention may be required.

Another case when the ovary may need to be removed is if the cyst is suspected to be cancerous. Such cysts can occur in women or girls of all ages, no matter whether she is a young girl whose menstrual cycles have not yet been started or an older woman who has already experienced her menopause.

The offending ovary will be removed and tested for cancerous cells. The healthy ovary may be saved in some cases so fertility will not be harmed.

There are certain risks involved with any cyst removal. The bladder or bowels can be harmed during the process. An infection could develop. Pain may not be relieved, as well as scar tissue developing causing significant pain. There is also a chance that a cyst or cysts come back if the ovary wasn't removed.

If the cyst is small enough a laparoscopy may be done. This would reduce the chances of problems and recovery will be much easier. The patient can be home in as little as a day and must take it easy and not lift anything heavy for a couple of weeks.

Laparotomy is a bigger operation and it takes longer to recover. After laparotomy the patient have to be in the hospital from four to seven days, and she is not allowed to lift any heavy things at least for four weeks. This type of operation may be needed if the cysts are very large or they are suspected to be malignant.

Ovarian cysts are generally not life threatening and can be treated by an OB/GYN and life should be back to normal in no time at all.