Ovarian cysts are essentially ‘fluid-filled sacs’ that form within or on the surface of a woman’s ovaries. Ovarian cysts are common and are most often benign, causing little or no discomfort. They typically will go away within a few months without any treatment.
However, sometimes an ovarian cyst can present in the form of an abnormal growth. Also, when left untreated, occasionally ovarian cysts can become twisted or rupture – which can be life-threatening. It is essential to know the symptoms of ovarian cysts that can indicate a serious problem.
Typically, ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and go away on their own. A large ovarian cyst can cause:
If you experience sudden, severe unexplained abdominal pain, fever, dizziness or vomiting, seek immediate medical help.
Ovarian cysts mainly fall into the category ‘functional’. Functional ovarian cysts develop when, during menstruation, the follicle that grows and releases the egg when you ovulate does not release an egg and continues growing. This is called a ‘follicular simple cyst’, which is harmless and disappears after a couple of months.
However, other cysts are not linked to menstruation:
Dermoid cyst: forms from reproductive cells that make eggs in the ovary. The cyst can contain tissue, such as hair, skin or teeth. This type of cyst usually is benign and rarely cancerous.
Cystadenoma: develops from cells on the surface of an ovary. The cyst might be filled with a watery material and can grow very large.
Endometrioma: endometriomas result from endometriosis, in which uterine cells grow outside of the uterus.
There are several potential causes of ovarian cysts. Underlying causes may include:
Most ovarian cysts are harmless and created as a natural part of a woman’s monthly cycle and are not a cause for concern. Also, the presence of ovarian cysts does not increase the likelihood that a woman will develop ovarian cancer.
If you are concerned because cancerous cysts are part of your family’s medical history, then speak to your GP. They can refer you to a genetics service.
It is vital to seek a confirmed diagnosis by an expert if you are experiencing any growing or large ovarian cyst symptoms. Consultant gynaecologist Miss Amanda Tozer at Aria Fertility is an expert in women’s health and has a comprehensive knowledge of menstrual disorders, including ovarian cysts. She will carry out a physical pelvic exam and will carry out a complete medical history check.
She may also perform a pelvic ultrasound scan to check for cysts on the ovaries and may organise an MRI scan if appropriate. A laparoscopy procedure can be used to check for endometriosis. If endometriosis is present, there are different options for removing any scar tissue, including laser treatment and surgical excision.
Once a diagnosis of an ovarian cyst has been made and the type of cyst established, the cyst can either be monitored by ultrasound or be removed by keyhole surgery.
Support.
Fertility treatments can be highly stressful and additional support is required to help you when you need it the most. Counselling is always available, however you may like to speak to one of our fertility coaches or even reach out to someone going through the same thing as you.
Our highly experienced team here at Aria Fertility will listen, support and guide you to having the family you always dreamed of.
Whether you’ve been trying unsuccessfully for a while; had children before but this time it hasn’t been so easy; or you just want a chat about it with someone who can listen and understand; rest assured, you are not in this alone.
Convenience.
Trying to balance daily routines with your fertility treatment can be exceptionally tough. At Aria, we want your fertility journey to be as convenient as it could possibly be.
Ensuring your fertility treatment fits in with your own schedule can make the process a lot less stressful. Many of our initial appointments can be performed virtually or made available during extended hours. You can make regular contact with the team at Aria either by virtual appointment, over the telephone or alternatively by email, allowing you the opportunity to blend your treatment with daily life.
When you do need to visit Aria for an appointment we are conveniently located on Welbeck Way in Marylebone, a short walk from either Bond Street or Oxford Circus underground stations.
If you would like to learn more about your own fertility journey contact us to arrange a face-to-face, telephone or video-appointment with one of our consultants.
You can do this by filling in the contact form below or by giving one of our friendly team a call on +44 (0) 203 263 6025 or emailing us at admin@ariafertility.co.uk.
We really look forward to getting to know you.
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8 Welbeck Way London W1G 9YL
