How to Find Lasting Relief from Ovarian Cysts Treatment in London?

Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle prompt the ovaries to develop small cyst-like structures known as follicles, which emerge during ovulation. These follicles may grow, forming a functional cyst that typically resolves within two to three cycles.

Ovarian cysts are usually solid or fluid-filled pockets within the ovary. While some cysts disappear independently, others may enlarge and cause discomfort. Though the risk of cancer exists, it remains sporadic.

Ovarian Cyst Risk Factors

Postmenopausal women, especially those with risk factors like BRCA genes, are most commonly affected. Several factors can elevate the risk of ovarian cysts, including:

• Severe pelvic infections that may spread to the ovaries
• Fertility treatments
• Hormonal changes
• Endometriosis
• Pregnancy

Ovarian Cysts: Causes and Types

Ovarian cysts commonly form a natural part of the menstrual cycle and can also affect postmenopausal women. Each month, the ovaries produce small, cyst-like structures known as follicles, which release an egg during ovulation.

Functional ovarian cysts related to the menstrual cycle fall into two categories:

• Follicular cysts: During the menstrual cycle, an egg develops within a fluid-filled sac called a follicle. This fluid safeguards the egg as it matures. Typically, the follicle breaks open to release the egg, then travels down the fallopian tube for potential fertilisation. After releasing the egg, the follicle usually shrinks and vanishes. However, if the follicle fails to release an egg or drain its fluid, it can swell and evolve into a cyst.

• Corpus luteum cysts: Normally, after releasing an egg, the follicle dissolves. Occasionally, the opening may become blocked, resulting in accumulation within the follicle and causing a corpus luteum cyst.

Functional cysts are benign and generally harmless, though they can sometimes cause symptoms like pelvic pain. Most disappear within a few months without any treatment.

Pathological cysts arise from abnormal cell growth, independent of the menstrual cycle, and can develop before or after menopause. These cysts may originate from cells involved in egg formation or those covering the ovary outer layer. In rare instances, they can burst or grow large enough to obstruct the blood supply to the ovaries. While most pathological cysts are non-cancerous, a small percentage can be malignant.

In some cases, underlying conditions like endometriosis can cause ovarian cysts. Endometriosis occurs when tissue that typically lines the womb starts growing outside it, such as in the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, bowel, vagina, or rectum. Generally, ovarian cysts do not increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts often manifest through several noticeable symptoms:

• Abdominal swelling or bloating
• Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
• Pelvic pain during menstruation
• Pain radiating to the thighs
• Painful intercourse
• Lower back pain
• Nausea
• Breast tenderness
• Vomiting

Experts state that ovarian cysts may also have a connection with other conditions, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). In PCOS, multiple cysts develop on the ovaries, causing discomfort and pain and disrupting normal ovarian function. This condition triggers significant hormonal imbalances, leading to lethargy, fatigue, acne, depression, infertility, and weight gain. Over time, polycystic ovaries may also contribute to the development of heart disease and diabetes. The presence of ovarian cysts is a primary indicator of polycystic ovarian syndrome.

If you are facing symptoms related to cysts, get the best ovarian cyst treatment in London with the Top Gynaecologists Clinic.

Ovarian Cysts: Diagnosis and Monitoring

If your doctor suspects you have an ovarian cyst, they may arrange an ultrasound scan. A repeat scan every few weeks will monitor the cyst’s progress, and your doctor might also refer you to a gynaecologist.

If the doctor suspects the cyst could be cancerous, they will conduct blood tests to check for elevated levels of chemicals associated with ovarian cancer. However, high levels of these chemicals might also indicate other conditions, such as endometriosis, pelvic infection, or fibroids.

Ovarian Cyst Treatment in London

These cysts typically resolve within a few months. Private gynaecologists in London often advise a wait-and-watch approach to treating them. Over time, most cysts naturally shrink and become harmless. Incorporating a few lifestyle changes can also help reduce the likelihood of cyst formation.

Increasing physical activity and engaging in regular exercise can significantly improve hormonal balance. Walking, in particular, is an excellent choice as it is a gentle full-body workout that burns more calories when done consistently over long periods. Additionally, walking boosts fitness levels and enhances cardiac health.

To alleviate abdominal discomfort, you can use analgesics. Over time, these medications can help manage symptoms like facial hair and acne while improving overall well-being.

Surgical Procedures for Ovarian Cyst Removal

There are two main surgical procedures to remove ovarian cysts:

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy, a form of keyhole surgery, involves making small incisions in your abdomen. A small tube-shaped microscope with a light is inserted through these cuts, allowing the surgeon to remove the cyst. The procedure ends with dissolvable stitches to close the wound.

Laparotomy

Laparotomy helps treat larger or potentially cancerous cysts. This procedure requires a larger abdominal incision to remove the cyst and possibly the ovary for further testing. The wound is closed with staples or stitches. Gynaecologists perform both surgeries under general anaesthesia.

If tests confirm the cyst is cancerous, further treatments may involve surgery to remove the ovaries and surrounding tissue.

Impact of Ovarian Cysts and Surgery on Fertility

Ovarian cysts usually don’t impact your fertility or your chances of becoming pregnant. However, conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome can, in specific cases, affect your ability to conceive.

As long as the surgeon preserves both ovaries, removing a cyst through surgery generally won’t interfere with your fertility.

If a surgeon removes one ovary, the remaining ovary will continue to produce hormones and eggs, so your fertility should remain intact. But you might experience more difficulty conceiving.

If the cyst is cancerous and requires the removal of both ovaries, the surgery will cause early menopause and end egg production. It’s crucial to discuss any fertility concerns with your surgeon before the procedure.

Our Final Verdict on Ovarian Cyst Treatment in London

When cysts grow larger, they can trigger symptoms. Additionally, some cysts may twist, leading to severe pain that demands urgent medical care.

Moreover, certain cysts can develop without noticeable symptoms and potentially become malignant, often leading to a late diagnosis of advanced cancer. Therefore, if you experience sudden bloating or discomfort, book an appointment with your private gynaecologist for evaluation.