Ovarian Cysts

Many women have ovarian cysts at some time during their life. Most present little or no discomfort and are harmless and the majority disappear without treatment.

Women have two ovaries, each about the size and shape of an almond, located on each side of the uterus. Ovarian cysts are fluid filled sacs or pockets that form within or on the surface of an ovary. They are very common, particularly during childbearing years.

There are several different types of ovarian cysts. The most common is a functional cyst that forms during ovulation. This occurs when either the egg is not released or after the egg is released, the sac where the egg formed does not dissolve away. Other types of cysts include polycystic ovaries, endometriomas, cystadenomas or dermoid cysts.

Tumours can also form in the ovaries and it is important to differentiate these from ovarian cysts. They are most commonly non-cancerous, called benign but there is a chance they are cancerous, called malignant.

HOW YOU MAY FEEL

In many cases ovarian cysts don’t cause symptoms. You may not realise you have one until you have a pelvic exam or ultrasound. You may experience very non-specific symptoms such as pain or bloating in the abdomen, dull lower back ache, pain during sex or during your period, nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite.

However in some cases you may experience serious symptoms, particularly if they twist, bleed or rupture.

HOW I CAN HELP

Most ovarian cysts are harmless and disappear without treatment others but a small number can be cancerous and that’s why it’s important to have them checked. I will make an assessment based on your symptoms, your risk factors, serial ultrasound appearances and hormone and protein levels in your blood. Based on this we will discuss the best management in your specific situation.

MAKE SURE YOU BRING

When you come in for your appointment make sure your bring:

• Referral form – If you don’t have one, call the day prior and we will try and arrange a copy from your GP.
• Any test results you might already have.
• Any imaging your might already have.
• A list of all the medicines you are taking, including the ones you have bought without a prescription.
• Your Medicare card.
• Your private health insurance information.