What are Ovarian Cysts?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or inside an ovary. These cysts are common and typically are benign (non-cancerous). They can vary in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a melon. Ovarian cysts can occur in women of any age, but they are most common in women who are still having periods.
Can Ovarian Cysts Stop You from Getting Pregnant?
Ovarian cysts can impact a woman's ability to get pregnant if they become persistent and non resolving. In some cases, ovarian cysts can cause problems with ovulation, which can lead to infertility. However, many women with ovarian cysts are still able to conceive without any issues.
How Can Ovarian Cysts Cause Infertility?
There are a few ways that ovarian cysts can cause infertility. Firstly, if a cyst is large, it can physically block the fallopian tubes (the tubes that connect the ovary to the uterus), making it difficult for the egg to travel down to the uterus. Secondly, if a cyst is affecting ovulation, it can make it difficult for the egg to be released. Thirdly, if the cyst is causing pain and discomfort, it can make intercourse difficult and also causes emotional distress.
Another important point to note is when a cyst develops from an endometriosis process and forms an endometrioma, then it can affect the eggs quality and quantity within that ovary and this ultimately can lead to subfertility.
Can Ovarian Cyst Cause Miscarriage?
In most cases, ovarian cysts do not cause miscarriage. However, if a cyst ruptures during pregnancy, it can cause internal bleeding and this may potentially lead to a miscarriage.
What are the Signs of a Cyst on the Ovaries?
Some common symptoms of an ovarian cyst include:
Abdominal pain or pressure
Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen
Pelvic pain
Irregular periods
Difficulty getting pregnant
However, it is important to note that many ovarian cysts do not cause any symptoms.
How to Get Pregnant with Ovarian Cysts
If you have been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst and are trying to get pregnant, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, you can speak to your consultant about medications that can help regulate ovulation. Secondly, you can try to reduce stress, as stress can affect ovulation. Thirdly, you can make sure you are maintaining a healthy weight, as being overweight or underweight can impact ovulation.
Ovarian Cyst Treatment
Treatment for ovarian cysts will depend on the size and type of the cyst, as well as the symptoms it is causing. In some cases, no treatment is necessary and the cyst will disappear on its own. However, if a cyst is causing pain or discomfort, or if it is suspected to be cancerous, it will likely need to be removed.
When to Consider Ovarian Cyst Treatment
If a cyst is causing pain or discomfort, or if it is suspected to be cancerous, it will likely need to be removed. Otherwise, if a cyst is small and not causing any symptoms, it may be monitored for changes rather than removed.
Ovarian Cyst Treatment Options
Treatment options for ovarian cysts include:
Watchful waiting: for small cysts that are not causing symptoms
Medications: to help regulate ovulation and shrink the cyst
Surgery: to remove the cyst from the ovary
How Soon After Ovarian Cyst Removal Can I Get Pregnant?
It is possible to get pregnant soon after ovarian cyst removal, but it will depend on the individual case. If the cyst was causing issues with ovulation or blocking the fallopian tubes, it may take some time for the ovaries to return to normal ovulation cycles. However, if the cyst was small and not causing any issues, conception may be possible soon after removal. It is important to discuss your specific case with your consultant and follow their recommendations for a safe and healthy pregnancy.
It is important to note that although ovarian cysts can affect fertility in some cases, it is not always the case. With proper treatment and management, many women with ovarian cysts are still able to conceive and have healthy pregnancies. If you have been diagnosed with ovarian cysts and are trying to get pregnant, it is important to discuss with your consultant to understand your options and create a plan that is right for you.
Conclusion
Ovarian cysts are common and typically benign fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or inside an ovary. While they do not always cause problems, they can affect a woman's ability to get pregnant. Ovarian cysts can cause infertility by blocking the fallopian tubes, affecting ovulation, or causing pain and discomfort. However, it is important to remember that many women with ovarian cysts are still able to conceive without any issues. There are many treatment options available, including medications, surgery or watchful waiting. It is important to work with your consultant to find the best treatment option for you, and to keep in mind that there is a good chance for a successful and healthy pregnancy after ovarian cyst removal or treatment.
Author: Mr Osama Naji
Mr Naji offers a “one-stop” gynaecology clinic for instant detection of various gynaecological cancers as well as providing all the diagnostic and treatment services needed under one roof.
Mr Naji provides advanced gynaecology scanning which is essential when conducting any gynaecology consultation, he is bilingual in English and Arabic and has an NHS base at the highly reputable Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital in London.
He is passionate about raising awareness of various subtle signs and symptoms of gynaecological conditions that are often overlooked by patients.