Do I Worry About the Small Cysts on my Ovary? | Ask the Expert: OB/GYN Utica Park Clinic

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Question:

I have a couple small cysts on an ovary. Is that anything I need to worry about?

Answer:

In general, many ovarian cysts are benign and pose no risk to you. The ovaries are two small organs located on each side of a woman’s uterus. Each month in a premenopausal female, the ovaries release an egg in a process known as ovulation. During this process, a functional cyst forms to hold the maturing egg. Normally, this cyst goes away after ovulation occurs and if it does not, it may be due to the egg not being released. This can cause polycystic ovaries (or ovaries with several cysts on or in them).

Functional cysts are not the only kind of cysts that can form on the ovaries. In women with endometriosis, endometriomas can occur. Endometriomas form when the cells lining the uterus (or endometrium) escape into a woman’s abdominal cavity. These can be very painful and are often referred to as “chocolate cysts” because of the old blood that forms in them. Cyst adenomas (benign ovary tumors) form on the surface of the ovary and are often filled with fluid. Dermoid cysts, which are usually benign, contain tissue from other parts of the body.

Many women do not even know they have ovarian cysts unless they are found during a routine pelvic exam or by a radiology test such as an ultrasound or CT scan. Some signs of ovarian cysts/tumors are: bloating or pain in the abdomen/pelvis, dull ache in the lower back, painful intercourse, painful periods or abnormal bleeding, unexplained weight gain, loss of appetite, or feeling full after starting a meal.

Again, in general, many cysts are benign and pose no risk to you. It is important, however, to monitor them and to have regular care with your OB/Gyn. Together you will decide the best plan of care for your specific situation.