An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on the ovary. Ovarian cysts are common and, in the vast majority of cases, are benign. They vary in size and can occur in different locations on the ovary; the most common type develops when a follicle that produces an egg does not rupture and release the egg but instead swells with fluid and forms a follicular cyst.

Cysts usually disappear on their own without treatment, but in some cases, surgical removal may be necessary. In rare cases, a cyst that twists or ruptures can cause serious complications that warrant emergency surgery.

While ovarian cysts are generally benign and harmless, in some cases, they can be cancerous or pose a risk to a woman's future fertility.

Symptoms may include:

• In many cases, ovarian cysts do not produce any symptoms.
• Mild abdominal pain.
• Swelling of the abdomen or a feeling of fullness or pressure.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Menstrual irregularities, including absence of menstrual bleeding (amenorrhea), heavy bleeding (menorrhagia), and painful periods (dysmenorrhea).
• Unusual hair growth on the face and body caused by increased production of male hormones (hirsutism).
• Sudden and sharp abdominal pain, fever, and nausea if a cyst twists or ruptures.
• In rare cases, frequent and painful urination (or urinary retention) if a cyst presses on the bladder.

If you have any symptoms of ovarian cysts, call a gynecologist. If you have been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst and experience sudden and severe abdominal pain, fever, or vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.

Diagnosis of Ovarian Cysts

A gynecological exam is necessary to diagnose an ovarian cyst. If a mass or lump is detected on the ovary, additional tests are needed to rule out ovarian cancer.

Your doctor may perform one or more tests to diagnose a benign ovarian cyst:

• Pelvic exam: Ovarian cysts are often detected during a routine pelvic exam. But since the pelvic exam does not provide a definitive diagnosis, the next step is to perform a vaginal ultrasound.
• Transvaginal ultrasound: This imaging test allows the doctor to obtain the most accurate image possible of the ovary and the cyst. The test is performed by inserting a small instrument into the vagina, which then sends sound waves bouncing off the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, forming an image on a monitor. This image allows the doctor to accurately determine the size of the cyst and, equally importantly, see its interior and detect whether it is solid or filled with fluid. If the transvaginal ultrasound detects the presence of a cyst, it cannot verify whether it is benign or malignant. Therefore, if the ultrasound detects a cyst, the next step may be surgical removal of the cyst to determine if it is malignant or benign.
• Laparoscopy: This minimally invasive surgical procedure allows your doctor to see and remove the cyst by making a small incision in the abdomen instead of a long cut. A laparoscope, a thin telescope with a light, is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen. Small instruments placed near the pubic bone allow the doctor to remove the cyst.

Treatment of Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts often disappear without treatment, or surgery may be necessary to remove the cyst if it is suspicious, if the cyst does not disappear, or if it is causing symptoms. In many cases, the cyst can be removed without damaging the ovary, but sometimes it may be necessary to remove the ovary. In rare cases, an ovarian cyst can be drained laparoscopically.

Your doctor may recommend hormonal therapy to prevent future ovarian cysts.

Can I get pregnant if I have cysts?

The presence of benign cysts usually does not compromise the ability to conceive. These cysts do not pose a direct threat to fertility. However, their impact may depend on their size and location on the ovary. In some cases, larger cysts may reduce the available space for follicle development, which could hinder the ovulation process.

It is important to note that the vast majority of ovarian cysts spontaneously resolve or do not require medical treatment, allowing women to conceive naturally. However, regular medical follow-up is recommended to monitor the evolution of the cysts and prevent possible complications.

If you have a cyst and are uncertain whether it will affect your fertility, consult a healthcare professional. At NatuVitro, we can help you and guide you on your journey to conception. Contact us for a personalized consultation and discover the best options to make your dream of motherhood a reality, even in the presence of ovarian cysts.

For more information IVF In Vitro Fertilization, please consult the treatment section.