Many women develop ovarian cysts, particularly functional cysts, during their reproductive years. These can form in or on your ovaries around the time you ovulate. They are often harmless and disappear on their own. However, some cysts are less common yet more dangerous. For example, if any cyst appears after menopause, it requires a thorough evaluation by a top gynecologist in Thane West. If you are wondering whether your ovarian cyst is normal or is too big to require surgical intervention, this post will clear all your doubts.

Level of Ovarian Cysts: What do they Mean?

Most small ovarian cysts do not require surgical removal. The doctor may discuss surgical treatment if the cyst grows bigger than 10 cm, is of a certain shape, or has a fast-growing pattern. 

Small Cysts

A cyst smaller than 4 cm isn’t a cause for concern. It’s normal for menstruating women. The cyst may form in every menstrual cycle and is usually asymptomatic. You may not know you have it until you get an ultrasound that shows an ovarian cyst. 

Medium Cysts

A medium cyst is between 4 cm and 6 cm in size. They might or might not cause any symptoms, although slight discomfort is normal with these cysts. They are mostly non-cancerous, but require proper evaluation due to their size. The doctor may want to check how fast it grows and other warning signs.

Large Cysts

A large cyst, which is above 6 cm, is concerning. It can be symptomatic. It needs careful evaluation and sometimes a surgical removal to prevent further complications. These cysts can put you at a greater risk for ovarian torsion or rupture.  

Giant Cysts

Ovarian cysts larger than 10 cm will almost always require an ovarian cyst surgery in Thane, as the cyst can press on your other organs or cause excessive abdominal swelling. It can also cause pain, affect your menstrual cycle, and interfere with your fertility. Additionally, these cysts can also be cancerous. Your surgeon may also send the tissue from the cyst to the lab to rule out malignancy (cancer).

What Are the Warning Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore? 

If you notice these symptoms, head to the nearest gynecologist’s clinic for testing.

Pelvic Pain:

Severe and sharp abdominal pain can indicate a large cyst that could be pressing on the surrounding tissues and organs. This can also indicate ovarian torsion.

Bloating:

If you have abdominal swelling or persistent bloating that doesn’t resolve over time, it’s worth seeing a doctor for an evaluation. 

Abnormal Bleeding:

Heavy bleeding is never normal, especially if you are passing blood clots or have periods outside your menstrual cycle. One of the reasons is an ovarian cyst.

Treatment for Ovarian Cyst

Based on the size of the ovarian cyst, your gynecologist may recommend one of these:

Monitoring:

Most small cysts that appear normal in ultrasounds do not require invasive treatment right away. 

Birth Control Pills:

They regulate your menstrual cycle and might reduce the risk of developing new ovarian cysts, although they can’t remove the existing ones.

Surgery:

Surgical intervention is needed if the cysts are larger than 10 cm, appear unusual, or are malignant.