A cyst is just a sac of tissue, filled with fluid. An ovarian cyst is when you have one of these somewhere on your ovary.
It’s pretty common (1 in 5) and you might even have one and not realise.
Non-cancerous ovarian cysts are diagnosed by ultrasound - either over your pelvic area - or if you’re sexually active you can have a trans-vaginal ultrasound (the radiographer will put a thin ultrasound wand in the vaginal canal.
When cysts are causing symptoms is when we need to look at taking action
this usually means something has changed i.e. the cyst has burst, is getting very large - or something has caused the ovary to twist in something called Ovarian Torsion.
There are a few known conditions that cause Ovarian Cysts; PCOS & Endometriosis.
pelvic pain
pain in the lower back or down thighs
pain during sex
needing to pee often
irregular periods (either in frequency or in heaviness)
indigestion even when you’ve eaten little
feeling bloated
difficulty passing stool
vomiting
Wait & Watch
If the cyst isn’t causing any trouble - it will often be a case of “waiting and watching” for any changes. Simple cysts will usually dissipate on their own
Laparoscopy
A keyhole surgery involving a few incisions made on the pelvis area. Surgeons will use cameras to see your organs and will drain and remove the cyst - usually this is an outpatient surgery (you’ll go home the same day)
Laparotomy
A larger cut - in your c section area (bikini line) in which the whole cyst is removed. This is usually only done in more serious cases or if access is an issue
