An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac, or multiple sacs, that form within or on the ovary. In most cases, these cysts are harmless and disappear without the woman even realising she has one.
However, sometimes the cyst does not resolve and grows larger, affecting or twisting the ovaries. It can cause discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.
A thorough examination allows for an accurate diagnosis, leading to the appropriate ovarian cyst treatment in London, which may involve reducing the cyst or surgically removing it.
What Are Ovarian Cysts Exactly?
During the menstrual cycle, hormonal changes cause the ovaries to form small, cyst-like structures called follicles at ovulation. These can sometimes grow into a functional cyst. It disappears within two to three cycles.
Ovarian cysts are solid or fluid-filled sacs that form in the ovaries. While many disappear, some persist, grow big, or cause pain. Although rare, there is a slight risk of cancer, especially in post-menopausal women with certain risk factors like BRCA genes.
Other factors that may increase the risk of ovarian cysts include:
- Severe pelvic infections that can spread to the ovaries
- Fertility treatments
- Hormonal changes
- Endometriosis
- Pregnancy
In rare instances, some cysts can become cancerous, requiring ovarian cyst surgery, such as a laparoscopy, to remove them from the ovary. If the cyst is large or obstructing vital organs, a private gynaecologist in London may recommend open surgery to safely remove the cyst without damaging surrounding organs. An expert surgical gynaecologist performs this procedure.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of an Ovarian Cyst?
Ovarian cysts are often discovered during routine scans for unrelated reasons. However, the most common symptoms include:
- Fertility problems, which may be associated with endometriosis
- Persistent or occasional lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Painful bowel movements
- Discomfort during sex
- Changes in appetite
- Frequent urination
- Swollen abdomen
- Painful periods
If these symptoms continue, book a consultation with the Top Gynaecologists in London, offering expert care and advanced treatments. Seek immediate medical help if you experience sudden, severe pelvic pain, as this could signal more serious health issues. If an ovarian cyst is suspected, an ultrasound will likely be required for confirmation.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts come in various forms, including:
- Dermoid cyst: Also known as a benign mature cystic teratoma, this type contains different tissues such as hair and bone fragments. It forms from cells within the egg stored in the ovary and can grow as large as 15 cm. Dermoid cysts are hereditary, so if your family has a history of them, your risk is higher. However, they often resolve naturally within a few months without medical intervention.
- Endometriomas: These cysts develop in women with endometriosis and form from the endometrial tissue typically found in the uterus. They are often filled with blood, which dries and turns brown, giving them the nickname “chocolate cysts.”
- Cystadenomas: These cysts grow outside the ovary, usually in the stalk area, and are medically known as mucinous cystadenomas. They are filled with mucus, and more advanced cysts contain a thin fluid layer.
While there are other types of ovarian cysts, the ones mentioned above are the most common and frequently experienced by women.
Are certain individuals more likely to develop ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts are quite common, with most women unaware they have one, as these cysts often present no symptoms and tend to disappear on their own within two to three months.
However, about one in ten women may require surgery for an ovarian cyst during their lifetime. While there are various causes for ovarian cyst development, known risk factors include hormonal treatments, pelvic infections, endometriosis, pregnancy, a genetic predisposition, and a previous history of ovarian cysts or cancer.
Best Ovarian Cyst Treatment in London
Most private gynaecologists in London recommend a wait-and-watch approach for treating ovarian cysts, as many cysts naturally resolve within a few months. Over time, these cysts usually shrink and become self-limiting. Making a few lifestyle adjustments can also help reduce the chances of cysts forming.
Increasing physical activity and exercising can significantly improve hormonal balance. Walking is particularly effective, offering a gentle, full-body workout that burns more calories with consistent, extended sessions. Additionally, walking enhances overall fitness and boosts heart health.
If you smoke, it is crucial to quit. Smoking raises androgen levels, which can contribute to the development of various cysts. Maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sunlight, and ensuring proper sleep are essential for cyst prevention.
Analgesics can help alleviate abdominal discomfort, along with improving overall health. In time, these medications may also manage symptoms like facial hair and acne.
Is treatment necessary?
Ovarian cyst treatment in London depends on factors like:
- Size
- Appearance
- Symptoms
- Whether the patient has gone through menopause.
In most cases, ovarian cysts disappear within a few months, but a follow-up ultrasound is usually done to confirm this.
For those at higher risk of ovarian cancer, such as post-menopausal women, regular ultrasounds and blood tests are typically recommended to monitor the cyst. If the cyst is large or potentially cancerous, surgery may be recommended for removal. It is essential to consult your GP or specialist about how this could impact fertility.
When should ovarian cysts be removed?
Cysts smaller than five centimetres usually do not need treatment and tend to disappear on their own within a few months. Cysts between five and seven centimetres often require a follow-up scan, typically an ultrasound, around four to six months later to check for any changes.
A cyst larger than seven centimetres may need further tests, such as an MRI and possibly surgery. If surgery is necessary, it is generally performed using either laparoscopic (keyhole) or laparotomy (open) techniques.
Laparoscopic surgery is preferred for most cases as it usually offers better outcomes. However, an open procedure may be recommended for big cysts or, in rare cases, if cancer is suspected. You can discuss both methods with your preferred specialist, weighing the benefits and risks to determine the best approach for your situation.
The procedure typically aims to remove the cyst while preserving the ovary. However, in specific cases, such as when the cyst is large or if there are concerns about borderline or cancerous changes, removing the ovary may be necessary. If the cyst has twisted, this may also require ovary removal, but the gynaecologist will carefully review all the pros and cons before making any decisions.
My Final Thoughts
Larger cysts often cause symptoms as they grow. Further, some cysts may twist, leading to severe pain that demands immediate medical care.
Moreover, certain cysts develop without symptoms and can become malignant over time, resulting in advanced cancer if detected late. Therefore, report any sudden bloating or discomfort to your private gynaecologist in London or a clinician for evaluation.
