At Doylestown Women’s Health Center, we work exceedingly hard to ensure our patients receive the best women’s healthcare available. Unfortunately, the internet can work against us and easily spread myths about women’s health, specifically with conditions like ovarian cysts. Our gynecologists in Doylestown, PA are here to set the record straight about ovarian cyst facts.
Common Myths About Ovarian Cysts & the Truth About Women’s Health
Our gynecologists hear these common myths about ovarian cysts all the time and we work hard to educate patients on the truth about ovarian cysts. Knowing the myths and facts about ovarian cysts is essential for women’s health and when to seek further care.
- Ovarian Cysts Cause Infertility: The majority of ovarian cysts occur as a natural part of the menstrual cycle and are called functional cysts. These cysts do not affect fertility. However, in some cases with patients who have been diagnosed with endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome, ovarian cysts may affect fertility. It’s important to know that the majority of ovarian cysts do not cause infertility.
- Ovarian Cysts Are a Sign of Ovarian Cancer: This is also a very misunderstood myth of ovarian cysts. The majority of ovarian cysts are not cancerous.
- Ovarian Cysts Require Surgery: The majority of ovarian cysts will go away on their own in 1-3 months. However, your gynecologist may monitor the size and growth of your ovarian cyst over time to ensure it goes away. Most cysts do not require any type of treatment or surgery.
- If Surgery is Required, Open Surgery is Necessary: In rare cases, like a ruptured cyst, surgery may be necessary. That being said, your gynecologist in Doylestown, PA will determine which type of surgery is most appropriate. For cysts that require surgery, laparoscopy is normally used which is a less invasive procedure. In rare cases where an ovarian cyst is large in size, a cut across the abdomen may be necessary. Typically, this type of surgery is used when cancer is suspected.
- Ovarian Cysts Cause Pain: This is another common myth about ovarian cysts. In fact, many ovarian cysts may not cause any symptoms and may only be discovered when undergoing a pelvic exam. While the majority of ovarian cysts do not cause pain, if you have been experiencing abdominal pain, it’s important to discuss your symptoms with your women’s health provider.
Contact Doylestown Women’s Health Center for Your Next Appointment!
To schedule your next appointment with our gynecologist in Doylestown, PA, contact our women’s health center directly. We look forward to seeing you soon!