Many women are at risk of developing cysts. While this is a common concern, it’s important to know that not all cysts are dangerous. In fact, the reasons behind cyst formation can vary greatly from person to person.
Ovarian cysts are a type of growth that can occur in the ovaries. Women have two ovaries, each about the size of an almond, which release eggs monthly as part of the menstrual cycle.
It’s surprisingly common for women to have cysts without even realizing it, often experiencing no symptoms at all. The good news is that most cysts are benign and will disappear on their own within a few months without requiring any treatment.
However, a ruptured ovarian cyst can lead to serious complications. To protect your health, it’s essential for women to understand how to check for cysts and be aware of potential symptoms.
4 Ways to Check for Cysts in Women
Alt text: A female doctor in a white coat is consulting with a female patient in a clinic, providing advice and information about cyst recovery.
If there’s a concern about cysts, doctors may recommend several tests for diagnosis. Here are four common ways to check for cysts:
1. Ultrasound
An ultrasound is a primary method to check for cysts. This imaging technique uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of your body. It’s a non-invasive procedure that can help doctors visualize the ovaries and detect the presence, size, and location of cysts. There are two main types of ultrasounds used for cyst detection:
- Transabdominal Ultrasound: This is done externally, with a transducer gliding over your abdomen. It’s a common first step in cyst evaluation.
- Transvaginal Ultrasound: For a more detailed view of the ovaries, a transvaginal ultrasound might be performed. This involves inserting a probe into the vagina, which allows for closer and clearer images of the ovaries.
2. Pelvic Exam
A routine pelvic exam is often the first step in detecting potential issues with the reproductive organs, including cysts. During a pelvic exam, a doctor can manually feel the ovaries and uterus to identify any abnormalities, such as lumps or masses that could indicate a cyst. While a pelvic exam cannot definitively diagnose a cyst, it can raise suspicion and prompt further investigation with imaging tests like ultrasound.
3. Laparoscopy
In some cases, if more information is needed or if treatment is required, laparoscopy may be recommended. This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a small incision is made in the abdomen, and a thin, lighted tube with a camera (laparoscope) is inserted. Laparoscopy allows doctors to directly visualize the ovaries and other pelvic organs. It can be used to diagnose cysts, determine their type, and even remove them if necessary.
4. Blood Tests
While blood tests cannot directly detect cysts, they can be used in conjunction with imaging to provide additional information. For example, a CA-125 blood test might be ordered to help evaluate whether an ovarian cyst is cancerous, particularly in women who are postmenopausal or at high risk for ovarian cancer. However, CA-125 levels can also be elevated in non-cancerous conditions, so this test is usually interpreted along with other findings.
Wait-and-See Approach
Many cysts resolve on their own within weeks or months. Therefore, if an ultrasound reveals a cyst, doctors might initially adopt a “wait-and-see” approach, especially if the cyst is small and you are not experiencing significant symptoms.
In such cases, a follow-up ultrasound may be scheduled in a few months to monitor the cyst’s size and status. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if the cyst grows larger, further investigation will be necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management.
Most Cysts Don’t Require Checking
Interestingly, most cysts don’t need specific checking beyond routine health evaluations. If a cyst is asymptomatic, it’s unlikely to be a sign of serious illness.
Women are at a higher risk of developing cysts in their ovaries due to the menstrual cycle. It’s estimated that around 1 in 5 postmenopausal women have ovarian cysts.
Small cysts rarely cause any noticeable symptoms. Concerns about potential cancer risk are also generally low. Experts state that if a cyst is initially found to be non-cancerous, it is highly unlikely to transform into cancer later.
Therefore, as long as a cyst is not causing symptoms like pelvic pain, it can often be monitored or even disregarded after an initial ultrasound confirms it’s benign.
Is Ultrasound Safe for Cyst Checks?
Alt text: Infographic outlining characteristics of dangerous cysts, including size, irregular shape, solid components, and rapid growth, emphasizing the importance of medical consultation.
What actually happens during an ultrasound? Ultrasound is indeed a safe and effective way to check for cysts. During the procedure, a transducer is used, which may be placed on the abdomen or inserted vaginally depending on the type of ultrasound.
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images, meaning it does not expose you to harmful radiation. It is also generally less expensive than other imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs.
However, the detection of a cyst during an ultrasound can understandably cause anxiety and fear for some patients. Some may even seek second opinions and undergo repeated ultrasounds, leading to unnecessary expenses.
Without insurance, an ultrasound can cost a significant amount, and surgical removal of cysts can be even more costly.
Therefore, it’s important to remember that if a cyst is asymptomatic and benign, repeated checks may not be necessary, saving both financial and emotional stress.
If you have concerns about cysts, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional to understand the cause and determine the best course of action. Seeking expert advice will help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
