Ovarian cysts are a collection of fluid on the ovary and can be classified as simple or complex. Ovarian cysts can be benign, pre-cancerous or cancerous.
Many ovarian cysts may resolve without the need for any intervention, however some may require surgical intervention and predispose patients to risks such as ovarian torsion, loss of an ovary or ovarian cancer.
There are many different types of cysts.
Common Symptoms
Abdominal pain
Pelvic pain
Discomfort with intercourse
Mid-cycle pain with periods
Nausea
Pressure sensation
Severe Symptoms
Sudden, severe pelvic pain indicating cyst rupture or torsion.
Vomiting
Dizzyness
Every patient is different and will have a unique bespoke journey for their treatment of their ovarian cysts.
Patients should expect an initial 45 minute consultation that can be performed face to face of via telehealth. During the consultation:
✓ A detailed history will be taken
✓ In some cases, a pelvic examination with use of a speculum is required
✓ Review of (or ordering) investigations such as a pelvic ultrasound or ovarian tumour markers
A discussion on treatment planning will occur identifying your goals as a patient and should surgery be indicated there will be a detailed discussion about the processes, risks, costs, post-surgical management as well as time frames.
Patients with a suspected ovarian cyst should see a gynaecologist. If surgery is indicated, minimally invasive approach is preferable. Review by a larpascopic benign gynaecologist is recommended.
Yes, it is very possible to treat common types of ovarian cysts without surgical intervention. This will depend on the patients symptoms, size and nature of the cyst.
An ovarian cyst can be very serious and some cysts can appear highly suspicious and demonstrate pre-cancerous features. All ovarian cysts should be reviewed, thankfully the vast majority are benign.
Pain will be experienced differently for each woman. The increase in the fluid filled sacs on the ovaries, generally can produce a dull ache or pin point pain in the pelvis. Some women will experience pressure sensation if the cyst is particularly large, others might note pain with intercourse.
The underlying cause of an ovarian cyst can be multiple and varied. Majority are benign and are physiological caused by ovulation or bleeding into the follicle that has just released the egg. However, there can be other cysts such as endometriomas, dermoid cysts and complex cysts.
Ovarian cysts will typically be diagnosed through use of imaging. A pelvic ultrasound is the most common modality, occasionally use of CT imaging and additional blood tests such as tumour markers may be of benefit.
Treatment will be dictated by the size and nature of the cyst as well as the patients symptoms. Many cysts can be left alone to resolve on there own, others might require surgery or respond to medical treatment.
