PLEASE NOTE: Appointments requested online are not automatically confirmed. You will receive a confirmation phone call when your appointment is confirmed by the practice.

Ovarian Cyst Specialist

Physicians For Women El Paso Our Services Ovarian Cyst

Physicians For Women El Paso

Obstetrics & Gynecology located in El Paso, TX

Ovarian cysts are common and usually cause no pain or symptoms. But, if an ovarian cyst ruptures or twists, it can cause painful complications. At Physicians for Women El Paso, the expert staff can help evaluate ovarian cysts and any that may be at risk of these complications. Call the office, located in El Paso, Texas, or book an appointment online to learn more about ovarian cyst evaluation and care.

Ovarian Cyst Q & A

What is an ovarian cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a pocket of fluid that forms on the surface of an ovary or within in it. The ovaries are two organs that sit on either side of the uterus. The ovaries are where a woman’s eggs mature each month.

Most ovarian cysts are harmless and resolve on their own. But an ovarian cyst that’s particularly large or that twists or ruptures can be quite painful.

What are the symptoms of a problematic ovarian cyst?

If you have a large ovarian cyst, you may experience painful symptoms. These include:

  • Pelvic pain, usually on one side of your lower abdomen
  • Full feelings or heaviness in your abdomen
  • Bloating
  • Painful intercourse

These symptoms can be uncomfortable and unpleasant and may get worse as the cyst grows.

What complications can happen with an ovarian cyst?

In rare cases, you may develop ovarian torsion, which is when a large cyst causes the ovary to twist or shift from its original position. This cuts off the ovary’s blood supply, causes pain, and could cause serious damage to the ovarian tissue.

A ruptured ovarian cyst is another rare potential complication. It causes internal bleeding and very severe pain. In some cases, you might develop an infection as a result of a ruptured cyst.

Suspect that an ovarian cyst has ruptured if you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, especially if it’s accompanied by lightheadedness, fever, or vomiting.

How are ovarian cysts treated?

If a cyst is small and causing no symptoms, your doctor at Physicians for Women El Paso may recommend simply evaluating it every few months to see if it’s growing or at risk of rupture or torsion.

If you have recurrent ovarian cysts, you might benefit from oral contraceptives that stop ovulation, so you stop developing cysts. If the cyst is suspect, you might be eligible for laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery that involves a tiny incision and small instruments to remove the cyst.

In cases of large cysts, a laparotomy may be advised. During this surgery, a large incision is made in your abdomen to remove the cyst and test it for cancer.

To learn more about the evaluation and treatment for ovarian cysts, call Physicians for Women El Paso or book an appointment online.

What we offer

Services