Dr Graeme Birdsey and his team understand that discovering an ovarian cyst can be a source of worry and discomfort. Our professional team is here to provide you with compassionate care, making sure that you receive personalised treatment options aligned to your specific needs.

What are ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts are tiny fluid-filled sacs or pockets that form in or on the ovaries. These cysts are relatively common and often form during the menstrual cycle.

Most ovarian cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and go away on their own without needing treatment, but some can cause discomfort or lead to complications. We provide comprehensive care and monitoring to ensure cysts are managed effectively.

What causes them to appear?

Ovarian cyst causes can vary, but the most common types of cysts are:

• Functional cysts: These form as part of the normal menstrual cycle. They often appear when the follicle that releases an egg fails to rupture, or the sac that releases the egg doesn’t dissolve after ovulation.
• Dermoid cysts: Because they form from embryonic cells, dermoid cysts can contain tissue such as hair, skin, or teeth.
• Endometriomas: These develop due to endometriosis, where endometrial tissue grows on the ovaries.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This condition causes the ovaries to develop many small cysts due to hormonal imbalances.
• If you think you might have an ovarian cyst, it’s important to consult our Hillcrest gynaecologist to determine the cause and the best course of action.

How are ovarian cysts treated?

Ovarian cyst treatment can depend on the type, size, and symptoms associated with the cyst. Treatment options at our practice include:

• Watchful waiting: Many ovarian cysts resolve on their own. Our specialists may recommend regular monitoring with ultrasounds to track the cyst’s size and progression in these cases.
• Medication: Hormonal contraceptives may be prescribed to regulate your menstrual cycle and prevent the formation of future cysts.
• Surgery: If the cyst is large, causes pain, or shows signs of being potentially cancerous, surgical removal may be recommended. We offer minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery to remove cysts while preserving ovarian health whenever possible.
• We aim to offer the most effective and minimally invasive treatments to ensure your well-being and peace of mind.

Are ovarian cysts dangerous or harmless?

Most ovarian cysts are harmless and cause few, if any, symptoms. However, certain cysts can lead to complications, such as:

• Rupture: A ruptured cyst can cause sudden and severe pain and may lead to internal bleeding, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Ovarian torsion: Large cysts can cause the ovary to twist, cutting off its blood supply. When this happens, it is a medical emergency that often needs surgery.
• Cancerous cysts: While rare, some ovarian cysts can be cancerous, particularly in postmenopausal women.

Common ovarian cyst symptoms include pelvic pain, bloating, pain during intercourse, and changes in your menstrual cycle. If you experience these symptoms, you must consult a gynaecologist near you for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

If you are dealing with symptoms or have been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, our team is here to help. Book a consultation with a Hillcrest gynaecologist today to figure out your treatment options and receive the care you need.