Anxious About Perimenopause? Here’s How We Can Help
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When Do Ovarian Cysts Require Medical Intervention?
Ovarian cysts are common; some even develop as part of a menstrual cycle. These are called functional cysts, and they typically don’t cause problems. That also goes for many other types of cysts that resolve over time.
But some women develop cysts that cause issues with their pelvic health or fertility.
Gabriela Olaru, MD, works with women in New York City to identify and treat the root causes of pelvic health symptoms. Through her practice at V Care OB/GYN, Dr. Olaru provides compassionate and personalized care aligned to each individual’s needs.
Today, let’s take a look at ovarian cysts, including how to know when you might have a cyst and when to seek professional care.
What are ovarian cysts?
A cyst is a sac filled with fluid or a semi-solid material. Cysts can develop in many areas of the body, including on or inside one or both of your ovaries.
In addition to the cysts created as part of the natural ovulation process, other types of cysts can develop with no connection to your menstrual cycle. Cystadenomas develop on the surface of your ovary and are filled with a watery or mucus-like fluid.
Dermoid cysts are filled with cells similar to the ones that make up your hair, skin, and teeth. They often have a smooth, rubbery feel. Endometriomas are filled with menstrual blood and may be a sign of endometriosis.
Causes of ovarian cysts include:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Abnormal cell reproduction
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
You have an elevated risk for ovarian cysts if you’re within your childbearing years, have had previous cysts, have a hormonal condition, or take medications to improve your fertility.
How do you know if you have ovarian cysts?
Not all cysts trigger a clear set of symptoms. Many women are unaware they have a cyst until a pelvic exam or ultrasound detects one. When symptoms are present, they may include:
- Pelvic pain below your belly button and to one side
- Sensation of heaviness or fullness in your abdomen
- Pain ranging from a dull ache to a sharp stab
- Bloating
- Pain during specific times in your menstrual cycle
Because the symptoms of ovarian cysts are common to many other women’s health issues, don’t try to determine the origin of unusual changes on your own. At V Care OB/GYN, we use advanced diagnostic tools to diagnose the underlying cause.
When should you seek treatment?
Schedule a visit if you experience pelvic pain, but don’t hesitate to reach out if you encounter any concerning changes. Health issues generally respond best when treatment begins in the early stages.
Also, note that while the vast majority of ovarian cysts aren’t cancerous, a small number do turn into cancer, so scheduling a screening is crucial.
To connect with the V Care OB/GYN team, call our office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side or book your appointment online today.
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