Ovarian Cysts Q & A

---

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on your ovaries. There are many different types of ovarian cysts, including:

• Follicle Cysts: Follicle cysts are common ovarian cysts that form during your menstrual cycle. The eggs from your ovaries form in a follicle that breaks open when released. If the follicle doesn’t break, a cyst forms. Follicle cysts usually go away after three months.
• Corpus Lutem Cysts: After the follicle releases the egg, the sac shrinks to form the corpus luteum. However, if the sac doesn’t shrink after the egg is released, a corpus luteum cyst forms. These cysts usually go away after a few weeks but can grow as large as four inches wide.
• Endometriomas: Endometriomas are less common ovarian cysts that develop in women with endometriosis, which is a medical condition that causes the endometrial tissue to grow outside of the uterus.
• Dermoids: Cysts that develop from the cells leftover after giving birth. These cysts usually don’t cause symptoms.

Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) develop many small cysts that may affect fertility.

Your ovarian cysts may disappear on their own, and the team at West Coast Women's Specialists may take a wait and see approach to monitor your cysts. If you have recurring cysts, the team may prescribe birth control medication to prevent new cysts from forming.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove ovarian cysts. The team may opt to surgically remove your ovarian cyst if it:

• Hasn’t disappeared after several menstrual cycles
• Causes pain
• Looks unusual

The team can remove ovarian cysts laparoscopically through a small incision in your abdomen or as a laparotomy, which requires a larger incision through your abdomen.

For proper management of ovarian cysts, call West Coast Women's Specialists or schedule an appointment online.