At North Carolina Reproductive Medicine, we know ovarian cysts are an all-too-common problem for women of childbearing age. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets in an ovary or on its surface. While some ovarian cysts can become cancerous, most are benign. However, they can still cause discomfort and pain, so it’s important to know the facts about ovarian cysts and understand when to seek medical help. From NCCRM, fertility clinics in North Carolina, here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the condition.
What Causes Ovarian Cysts?
The most common type of ovarian cyst is a follicular (functional) cyst, which occurs when an egg fails to be released during ovulation. This causes the follicle becomes filled with fluid and forms a cyst. Causes for other types of ovarian cysts are endometriosis, pelvic infections, certain medications, hormonal imbalances, and other conditions. Your fertility specialist Raleigh NC can help you determine what type you may have.
What Are The Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts?
Pelvic pain, which may be mild or severe, is usually one of the first signs something may be wrong. Other symptoms include bloating, pain during sex, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder completely, and menstrual irregularities such as absent periods or heavy bleeding. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor at our fertility clinics in North Carolina for a diagnosis.
What Goes Into Diagnosing Ovarian Cysts?
If your doctor suspects that you have an ovarian cyst, they will likely order an ultrasound to confirm their diagnosis. This imaging test uses sound waves to create images of your pelvic area. Images show any potential cystic growths in your ovaries. Your doctor may also order additional tests at our fertility clinics in North Carolina if they suspect something more serious is causing your symptoms.
Treatment Options for Ovarian Cysts
The treatment for ovarian cysts depends on several factors including the size of the cyst and whether it’s causing any symptoms. The goal of treatment is usually to reduce discomfort and prevent complications such as rupture or torsion (twisting). Treatment options at our fertility clinics in North Carolina can include observation, medication to reduce swelling, or surgery. Your doctor will discuss your options with you and help you decide which treatment is best for you.
NCCRM | Fertility Clinics in North Carolina
For many women with ovarian cysts, understanding their condition is half the battle. Knowing what symptoms to watch out for, what kind of treatments are available, and seeing a fertility specialist Raleigh NC, can go a long way toward improving comfort and preventing complications. If you think you may have ovarian cysts, don’t hesitate to speak to a doctor about your concerns. To learn more about our fertility clinics in North Carolina, visit our website today.
