An ovarian cyst is usually a common, temporary condition. Most of these growths are benign, or non-cancerous. Often, treatment for ovarian cysts is not necessary because they will simply go away on their own. Some medications may also help. Rarely, it may be removed surgically.
Most women will have an ovarian cyst at some point in their lifetimes. If you do not experience symptoms, you may not even know that you have one. When you do notice differences in your health due to this condition, it may be menstrual irregularities, pressure on the bladder, or pelvic pain. Some women also notice nausea and a sensation of heaviness in the abdomen. See your doctor for a proper diagnosis if you notice any of these symptoms.
Your doctor will likely conduct a pelvic exam for diagnosis. During this, he will determine if the cyst is irregularly shaped, how large it is, and whether it is filled with fluid or if it is solid. These factors can influence his recommendations for the best treatment for ovarian cysts.
If the growth appears to be normal, small, and filled with fluid, a physician will likely recommend that you simply wait for it to go away on its own. You may schedule follow-up pelvic exams about every month to monitor the growth. Women who experience pain may take an over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen, to alleviate it. A doctor may prescribe a stronger pain reliever, such as naproxen, for persistent or severe pain.
Treatment for ovarian cysts may also consist of birth control pills that prevent ovulation. These contraceptives may help reduce the risk of developing more cysts. The birth control shot also prevents ovulation. If you have experienced this medical condition more than once, you may be a good candidate for this method of prevention.
Large cysts and those that appear abnormal may require surgery. Growths that are solid, or a mix of solids and fluids, are also more likely to be cancerous. The surgeon may use laparoscopic surgery for smaller cysts that are less likely to be cancerous. This technique uses a very small incision. Laparotomy, which requires a larger incision, may be used for larger growths that are likely to be malignant.
Depending on your exact medical condition, the surgeon may only need to remove the growth. Sometimes, the affected ovary is also removed. Treatment for ovarian cysts that are cancerous often requires a hysterectomy. This means that your uterus and ovaries will be taken out, along with the abnormal growths. Before undergoing any surgery, talk to your doctor about the potential risks of the operation.