Understanding Ovarian Cysts

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Hearing the word "cyst" can be frightening, but at Ladies First Health Care, we want to reassure you that ovarian cysts are incredibly common and, in the vast majority of cases, completely harmless. Dr. Saqib Ahmad and our dedicated team are here to help you understand your body, evaluate any symptoms you may be experiencing, and provide the personalized care you need for peace of mind and optimal pelvic health.

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What is an Ovarian Cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or inside an ovary. Most cysts are a normal part of your menstrual cycle. Every month, your ovaries grow small follicle sacs that release an egg. Sometimes, a follicle doesn't release its egg, or it doesn't shrink after the egg is released, causing it to swell with fluid and form a "functional cyst."

These functional cysts are almost always non-cancerous (benign) and typically go away on their own within a few menstrual cycles without needing any treatment.

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Common Symptoms

Many women have ovarian cysts without ever knowing it, as they often cause no symptoms at all. However, if a cyst becomes large, bleeds, or presses on surrounding organs, you might experience:

• A dull ache or a sharp twinge in your lower abdomen, usually on one side

• A feeling of fullness, heaviness, or bloating in your pelvis

• Pain during intercourse

• Changes in your menstrual cycle or unusual spotting

• An increased urge to urinate or difficulty emptying your bladder completely

When to Seek Immediate Care: If you ever experience sudden, severe abdominal pain especially if it is accompanied by a fever, vomiting, or dizziness please contact us immediately or go to the nearest emergency room. These can be signs of a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion (when the ovary twists on its supporting tissues), which requires prompt medical attention.

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Diagnosis and Treatment

If you are experiencing pelvic pain or if a cyst is discovered during a routine pelvic exam, Dr. Saqib Ahmad will work closely with you to determine the best next steps. We typically use a gentle, in-office pelvic ultrasound to look at the size, shape, and composition of the cyst.

Because every woman is unique, Dr. Saqib Ahmad tailors treatment to your specific age, symptoms, and the type of cyst you have. Your care plan may include:

• Watchful Waiting: For small, simple cysts, we often recommend monitoring it with a follow-up ultrasound in a few months to ensure it has resolved on its own.

• Hormonal Medications: For women who are prone to developing functional cysts, medications like birth control pills can prevent ovulation and stop new cysts from forming.

• Minimally Invasive Surgery: If a cyst is unusually large, complex, painful, or does not go away, Dr. Ahmad may recommend removing it. Whenever possible, this is done using advanced laparoscopic (minimally invasive) techniques, which involve tiny incisions, less pain, and a much faster recovery.
   

Partnering in Your Health

You know your body best. If you are experiencing unexplained pelvic pain, bloating, or changes in your cycle, do not ignore it. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Saqib Ahmad at Ladies First Health Care today. We are here to listen, diagnose the root cause of your discomfort, and help you feel your best again.