Discover the connection between ovarian cysts and infertility
The Indianapolis fertility doctors at our clinic can diagnose and treat ovarian cysts and infertility. An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac within or on the ovary. Cysts are commonly benign, or non-cancerous, and develop during a patient’s menstrual cycle. A patient with ovarian cysts might experience abdominal pain, irregular periods and bloating in the abdominal or pelvic area.
A common misconception is that cysts on the ovaries are the same as PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome. While ovarian cysts and PCOS have similar symptoms, they are different conditions. The primary difference is that PCOS causes hormonal imbalances, while ovarian cysts do not always cause this issue.
Types of ovarian cysts and infertility
There are a variety of cysts on the ovaries that patients of reproductive age can develop. These cysts can affect a patient’s fertility in a variety of ways.
Follicular cysts. This is a common cyst that develops when the egg in the ovary doesn’t release. Follicular cysts usually go away on their own after a few menstrual cycles.
Endometriomas. This type of cyst forms when a piece of the endometrial lining goes through the fallopian tube and attaches to the ovary. This lining eventually forms a cyst on the ovary. This lining can bleed when a patient has a period and can lead to a diagnosis of endometriosis.
Dermoid cysts. A dermoid cyst is a benign growth that can contain different types of tissue like hair, fat, bone or cartilage. A specialist can remove this cyst with the minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure.
Hemorrhagic cysts. This cyst contains blood. If the cyst bursts, severe pain can result as blood from the cyst moves into the abdomen.
The Indianapolis fertility doctors at our clinic typically utilize a pelvic exam to confirm the presence of cysts on the ovaries. They then use a transvaginal ultrasound to learn more.
An important part of understanding ovarian cysts and infertility is knowing that ovarian cysts usually must resolve before a patient can move forward with fertility treatments.
Common treatments for ovarian cysts
After the doctor determines what type of cysts on the ovaries a patient has, they can work with the patient to create a treatment plan. Treatment often includes medication or a minimally invasive surgery.
Birth control pills. As birth control pills prevent the release of an egg, they can result in the development of fewer cysts.
Laparoscopy. Doctors may recommend laparoscopy for the removal of a cyst. This is a simple procedure that involves the patient receiving sedation before the doctor passes a thin tube through an incision near the belly button. The doctor then inflates the abdomen with carbon dioxide to enhance visibility.
Next, the doctor passes a small telescope through the incision, which sends images to a video monitor. These images help the doctor locate the cysts for removal. The doctor closes the incision after the procedure. After the removal of the cysts, a patient can typically move forward with other fertility treatments.
The Indianapolis fertility doctors at our clinic are by the patient’s side each step of the way. They help ensure that patients have the best chance of achieving the dream of parenthood. Contact us for more information about ovarian cysts and infertility.