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Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries. Normally, women have two ovaries, which produce and release eggs. They also secrete female hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
Ovarian cysts are very common and can be classified into two types: functional and abnormal. Functional cysts develop as a result of the normal function of the ovary. They are usually smaller than abnormal cysts and often resolve on their own without treatment.
The most common functional cysts are follicular and corpus luteum cysts. A follicular cyst forms when the follicle that grows the egg enlarges and fluid accumulates inside.
A corpus luteum cyst occurs after an egg has been released from the follicle. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum dissolves. However, sometimes this structure may grow and remain in the ovary filled with fluid or blood.
The most commonly encountered abnormal cysts are dermoid cysts. These cysts resemble skin and may sometimes contain hair, bone, and cartilage fragments.
Ovarian cysts usually do not cause symptoms, but when they do, they may include:
Diagnosis of ovarian cysts is made using the following tests and examination methods:
Sometimes, diagnosing ovarian cysts can be difficult. It should be noted that the mass felt by the examining doctor may be a neighboring organ pressing on the ovary, such as a full bowel or bladder. In this case, ultrasound is very useful for showing both the presence and size of the cyst. Abnormal cysts are typically over 5 cm in size.
Functional cysts are very common and rarely require treatment. The use of birth control pills can be beneficial in treatment. Sometimes, they may resolve on their own within a few months without any treatment. Functional cysts that do not disappear may need to be drained. Cysts larger than 5 cm that do not resolve on their own usually require surgical removal. Smaller abnormal cysts should also be removed surgically.
Cysts can often be removed without taking the ovary. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to remove the entire ovary along with the accompanying tube. Since there are two ovaries and two tubes, even if one is removed, there is still a chance of becoming pregnant naturally.
Some cysts may recur, and sometimes they can be cancerous. Therefore, if you are postmenopausal or do not intend to have children, it may be more appropriate to remove all of them.
The following surgeries are generally performed for the treatment of ovarian cysts:
Endoscopy: The abdomen is filled with gas, and an incision is made just below the navel to insert a laparoscope (a thin tube with a light) into the abdominal cavity. With the help of the laparoscope, the surgeon can check for the presence of a cyst and may take a sample of the fluid with a syringe. This sample is sent to the laboratory for examination. Based on the results, your doctor may proceed to a laparotomy.
Laparotomy: An incision is made in the abdomen, allowing your doctor to remove the cyst. This is then sent to the laboratory for examination. About 95% of cysts are not cancerous.
Many ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms and are often only noticed during routine annual examinations. Therefore, routine check-ups are crucial and allow for early treatment. Delaying treatment can lead to the painful and dangerous condition of a ruptured cyst.
If you notice any symptoms related to your ovaries, you should see your doctor immediately. You need to have gynecological examinations and pap-smear tests performed as frequently as your doctor recommends.
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