Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are just as they sound, cystic structures that grow on one or both ovaries. Depending on your age, your menstrual or childbearing status, where you are in your cycle, and your symptoms, ovarian cysts are treated a number of different ways.During the menstrual cycle it is perfectly normal for cysts to develop and resolve on their own. Other times in the case of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), ovarian cysts cluster on the ovaries and interfere with ovulation; they can cause fibrosis of the ovaries and pelvic pain. The cysts associated with PCOS are benign but very troublesome. Other times one cyst can become so engorged that it ruptures causing acute abdominal pain. Typically in a younger female if surgery is recommended the surgeon will attempt to preserve the ovary when at all possible.

In menopause cysts can develop on the ovaries and begin to grow. These cysts usually start out benign and a small percentage progress to cancer. The problem is when they continue to grow. Since there is no definitive test that shows specifically the histological presentation of the tissue, often surgeons opt for their removal along with the removal of the ovary.

In treating ovarian cysts, hormones must be properly balanced to slow the growth and preserve ovarian function.