One of the first health problems that come to mind when it comes to women's diseases is ovarian cysts. Although they cause significant concern due to the symptoms they cause and as an obstacle to having children, they are a treatable health problem with early diagnosis and proper intervention.

At this point, it is very important for the person to take seriously the symptoms they observe in themselves and to follow a treatment protocol with a specialist gynecologist for both quality of life and the ability to bring a child into the world.

What is an ovarian cyst?

Ovarian cysts are masses that occur in the ovaries, which are located on both sides of the uterus and produce the hormones progesterone and estrogen. Ovarian cysts can be benign or malignant.

These glands are critically important for the female reproductive system. The cysts, which are fluid-filled masses surrounded by cyst wall tissue, can come in multiple types.

What are the types of ovarian cysts?

Functional cysts, seen between the ages of 13 and 18 when the body's hormone balance is not fully established, disappear spontaneously. These cysts usually do not require surgery and often resolve without intervention, but should be monitored just in case. Although unlikely, complications such as ovarian torsion or cyst rupture may occur due to the weight caused by the cyst.

Germ cell tumors appear between ages 13-18 and in the early years of the reproductive phase. While some types require surgical intervention, others may also need chemotherapy in addition to surgery. They usually present as solid organs.

Corpus luteum cysts, seen in many women during menstruation, are completely cyclical. These cysts form as a result of ovulation and disappear on their own. Sometimes, they may cause bleeding.

Dermoid cysts, seen during pregnancy, contain tissues such as skin, hair, fat, bone, and teeth from the body's external structure. Because they can cause ovarian torsion, they must be urgently removed surgically.

Chocolate cysts, medically called endometriotic cysts, are named due to their appearance resembling melted chocolate. They are among the most common cysts seen during the reproductive period. Treatment of chocolate cysts depends on the patient's condition and may be surgical or medical.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts?

• Groin pain
• Irregular menstruation
• Inability to conceive
• Severely painful menstrual cycles
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Painful bowel movements
• Difficulty urinating

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

Ovarian cysts are initially examined physically. First, the abdominal area is manually examined to identify painful areas. Then, ultrasound is used to detect the cyst’s size, structure, and appearance for evaluation. Based on the results, blood tests may be conducted and MRI support may be used.

How are ovarian cysts treated?

The treatment protocol for ovarian cysts is entirely based on the cyst’s structure, size, tissue, capsule, and relation to surrounding tissues.

If the masses in the ovary are complex cysts, they should be surgically removed considering potential risks. If the cyst is found to be benign during surgery, only the relevant cysts are removed. If pathology shows malignancy, depending on the patient's age and fertility plans, either conservative or extensive surgery may be performed.

This operation may then be supported by cancer surgery. If the cyst does not require surgical intervention, it should be regularly monitored every 3 to 6 months.