Ovarian cysts
The ovaries are female reproductive organs located in the lower abdomen and connected to the uterus. They produce essential fertility hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, and release an egg from a follicle almost every month during the reproductive years (ovulation).
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on or inside the ovaries. These cysts are usually benign, and many women will develop at least one cyst during their lifetime without realizing it, as they often do not cause symptoms. However, in some cases, cysts may cause pain, bloating, or other discomforts.
Diagnosis is made through ultrasound or other diagnostic tests, which can determine the type and size of the cyst. Based on the results, the doctor will decide whether simple monitoring of the cyst (conservative management), medication, or surgery to remove it is necessary.
The benefits of ovarian cyst removal surgery
- Pain Relief: Removal of the cysts can reduce or eliminate the pain caused by them.
- Prevention of Complications: Surgery can prevent the rupture of cysts or other serious complications.
- Accurate Diagnosis: The surgery can provide an exact diagnosis, checking whether the cysts are benign or malignant.
- Improvement of Fertility: In some cases, cyst removal can improve the chances of conception.
- Psychological Relief: Removal of the cysts can offer psychological relief for women concerned about their health.
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The surgical procedure for removing ovarian cysts is indicated under certain conditions (e.g., when the symptoms related to the cyst do not subside or when the cyst exceeds a certain size), and can be performed in two main ways: laparoscopy or open surgery.
In the laparoscopic approach, the gynecologist inserts a thin tube with a camera (laparoscope) through small incisions in the abdomen. This allows for precise imaging and removal of the cysts with minimal damage to the surrounding tissues.
The open surgery method requires a larger incision and is often used in cases of larger or more complicated cysts. The procedure is safe, and most women return to their daily activities within a few weeks.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
There are various types of ovarian cysts. The most common types in women of reproductive age are “functional cysts,” which are benign. These include:
- Simple Cyst: Formed when a follicle does not release the egg. It is usually small and resolves on its own without treatment.
- Corpus Luteum Cyst: Develops after ovulation and contains fluid. If it doesn’t resolve, it may cause pain or discomfort but is typically benign.
- Endometrioma or Endometriosis Cyst: Forms when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows on the ovaries. These can cause pain and are often linked to endometriosis.
- Dermoid Cyst: Contains various tissue types such as hair and skin. Usually benign and may require surgical removal.
- Cystadenoma: Benign tumors originating from the ovarian glands. They are typically asymptomatic but may need monitoring or removal if they grow.
Most cysts are benign and do not cause problems. They are usually asymptomatic. However, it is important for them to be checked by a doctor, especially if they cause discomfort, such as lower abdominal pain, discomfort during intercourse, bloating, indigestion, or a feeling of fullness in the stomach.
Cysts can be diagnosed through ultrasound or other diagnostic tests.
If you are diagnosed with ovarian cysts, it is important to monitor the condition with your gynecologist and discuss treatment options.
In some cases, cysts may cause more serious health problems, such as rupture, affecting fertility, or even being malignant. Therefore, they must be detected early and monitored.
Usually not. The need for surgery depends on the size, type, and symptoms of the cysts. The doctor should regularly monitor the patient and proceed with surgery only when necessary.