What are ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs in or on the ovaries. Most are harmless and present no symptoms. However, some cysts, especially those that have ruptured, can produce serious symptoms. You can find ovarian cyst treatment options at your nearest Baptist Health women’s clinic.
What are the symptoms?
- Pressure, swelling or pain in the abdomen
- Pelvic pain
- Dull ache in the lower back and thighs
- Problems passing urine completely
- Pain during intercourse
- Weight gain
- Pain during your period
- Abnormal bleeding
- Nausea or vomiting
- Breast tenderness
What ovarian cyst treatment options are available?
Non-Surgical Option
Birth control pills may be prescribed to stop you from ovulating. If you don’t ovulate, you are less likely to form new cysts.
Surgical Ovarian Cyst Treatments
The Women’s Surgery Unit at Baptist Health provides patient-centered care for women having gynecologic surgery. We consistently have a high level of patient satisfaction because our staff is aware that every patient is somebody’s mother, daughter, sister, wife, grandmother or aunt. Every staff member looks forward to providing the individualized care that each woman desires and needs for surgical options, including:
- Laparoscopy. A minor surgical procedure in which a laparoscope, a thin tube with a lens and a light, is inserted into an incision in the abdominal wall. Using the laparoscope to see into the pelvic area, the doctor can often remove the cyst. This treatment is performed if the cyst is small and appears benign (noncancerous) on the ultrasound.
- Laparotomy. A more extensive surgery involving a larger cut in the abdomen to remove the cyst. This treatment is performed if the cyst is large and may be cancerous. Once removed, the cyst will be tested for cancer. If it is cancerous, the doctor may need to take out the ovary and other tissue, like the uterus. If only one ovary is taken out, your body is still fertile and can still produce estrogen.
