Ovarian Cysts

Do you have pains in your pelvic region that come and go? You may have an ovarian cyst. Westmoreland Obstetrics and Gynecologic Associates in Lake Bluff and Grayslake, Illinois, can give you the answers you deserve about your health, with effective diagnosis and minimally invasive treatments for ovarian cysts. There’s no reason to wait — call or schedule an online consultation today.

What are ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts are extremely common fluid-filled sacs that grow in or on your ovaries. The majority of ovarian cysts form when you have your period. Most are noncancerous.

Ovarian cysts are brought on by a change in your hormones. These cysts form during pregnancy, or when you have a health condition, such as endometriosis or a pelvic infection. Some women have many tiny cysts, a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS can make it difficult to become pregnant.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts?

Because ovarian cysts don't always cause symptoms, you may have had one of these cysts in the past and never known it. If you have symptoms, you may feel:

• Bloating
• Swelling
• Pressure
• Pain in your lower abdomen
• A sharp or dull pain that comes and goes

Less common symptoms of ovarian cysts include:

• Pelvic pain
• Dull ache in the lower back and thighs
• Problems emptying your bladder or bowel completely
• Pain during sex

If an ovarian cyst ruptures, you may feel a sharp, severe pain.

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

Your Westmoreland Obstetrics and Gynecologic Associates will ask about your symptoms and perform a pelvic examination to feel for signs of swelling. To complete the diagnosis, you might need diagnostic tests, such as:

• Ultrasound
• Blood test
• Pregnancy test

Your OB/GYN also may recommend hormone level tests to identify hormone-related issues.

How are ovarian cysts treated?

Your OB/GYN may recommend monitoring you to see if the cyst goes away on its own. Many cysts disappear over time. Pain medicines can help to relieve your symptoms.

If you have cysts often, your OB/GYN may recommend hormonal birth control to help stop cysts from forming. In some cases, you may need to have your cyst removed. Your OB/GYN may talk with you about surgical options if you’re in menopause, or if your cyst:

• Doesn’t go away after several menstrual cycles
• Gets larger
• Causes pain
• Looks unusual

Your OB/GYN may recommend a minimally invasive procedure called laparoscopy.  This procedure involves making a tiny incision near your belly button to remove the cyst or cysts.

If you’re worried about an ovarian cyst, the board-certified OB/GYNs at Westmoreland Obstetrics and Gynecologic Associates offer expert diagnosis and a range of treatment options. Call or schedule an online consultation today.