Ovarian Cyst

Dr. Ronen OB/GYN

OB/GYNs located in Houston, TX

An ovarian cyst can come and go without you even being aware of it. However, in some cases, ovarian cysts are uncomfortable and even rupture. Board-certified OB/GYN Pinky Ronen, MD & Dr. Itai Ronen, MD at Dr. Ronen OB/GYN in Houston, can diagnose and manage your ovarian cyst. For an appointment, call the office or book online today.

Ovarian Cyst Q & A

What is an ovarian cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops in your ovaries. They’re very common and often come and go without causing symptoms or problems. 

There are many different types of ovarian cysts, but the two most common are:

Follicle cyst

During ovulation, your egg grows in a follicle. When your egg is mature, the follicle breaks open to release the egg. If the follicle doesn’t open and release the egg, then a follicle cyst develops. 

These types of cysts rarely cause symptoms and generally go away on their own within three menstrual cycles.

Corpus luteum cyst

After your follicle breaks open, it shrinks and leaves behind a mass of cells referred to as corpus luteum. If your open follicle doesn’t shrink, then it may create a cyst referred to as a corpus luteum cyst. These types of cysts may go away within a few weeks, but they can grow large in size.

Other types of ovarian cysts include dermoid, endometriomas, and cystadenomas.

What are ovarian cyst symptoms?

As previously noted, not all ovarian cysts cause symptoms. But it’s possible to feel some discomfort depending on the type and size of the cyst. Common symptoms include:

  • Pelvic pain
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Pain during menstruation
  • Bloating and swelling
  • Increase in urination
  • Unexplained weight gain
  • Abnormal bleeding

If your cyst ruptures, you may experience a severe and sudden onset of pelvic pain and you should seek immediate medical attention.

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

Our doctors can often diagnose ovarian cysts during a pelvic exam. However, to confirm a diagnosis, we may recommend diagnostic imaging such as an ultrasound. 

This test provides information about the size, location, and shape of your ovarian cyst, which is used to direct her treatment plan.

Our doctors may also check your hormone levels and run a blood test to see if there are any underlying conditions that caused your cyst, such as polycystic ovary syndrome.

What are the treatments for ovarian cysts?

Treatment for your ovarian cyst depends on your symptoms. our doctors may recommend monitoring your cyst to see if it goes away on its own. 

However, if your cyst isn’t going away or causes significant symptoms, we may recommend surgical removal of your cyst. 

For an evaluation and treatment plan for your ovarian cyst, call Dr. Ronen OB/GYN or request an appointment online today.