Get Relief for Ovarian Cyst Symptoms in Southern California

Ovarian cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs on the ovary, are very common. Ovarian cysts usually have no symptoms and go away without treatment. 

When ovarian cysts do cause symptoms, they can be painful and require medical care. Dignity Health Southern California hospitals, doctors, nurses, and staff provide the comprehensive care a woman needs, from routine wellness to specialized treatment at convenient locations in Long Beach, Northridge, Downtown LA, Glendale and in Inland Empire cities, San Bernardino, Fontana, and Highland. This holistic care includes expert diagnosis of ovarian cyst symptoms and treatment in Southern California. Use our online Find a Doctor tool to explore our comfortable locations and make an appointment today.

Ovarian Cyst Symptoms

Because most ovarian cysts don’t cause symptoms, you may not know you have one unless it is detected in an ultrasound or other test you’re having for another reason. 

When ovarian cysts do cause symptoms, the most common complaints are:

  • Pain during intercourse
  • Sharp or dull abdominal pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Bloating
  • Bleeding
  • Feeling as if you need to urinate or have a bowel movement

Ovarian Cyst Causes

Most ovarian cysts develop naturally when you ovulate. These types of cysts are called functional cysts. They are harmless but may cause pain. During ovulation, an egg develops in a follicle, which is a cyst-like structure. The follicle should burst and release the egg, but sometimes it doesn’t. The follicle continues to grow. Other times, the follicle does release the egg, but also continues to grow. This a functional cyst called a corpus luteum cyst.

Less common causes of ovarian cysts include endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Ovarian cysts are rarely cancerous.

Taking fertility drugs may increase your risk of developing ovarian cysts.

Ovarian Cyst Treatment at Dignity Health Southern California

Your doctor will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account:

  • Cyst type
  • Cyst size
  • Any symptoms the cyst is causing
  • Whether the cyst is growing
  • Your overall health
  • Your personal preferences 

The most common treatments are: 

  • Birth control pills. They don’t treat existing cysts, but can help prevent new ones.
  • Surgery. In most cases, a gynecologic surgeon can remove ovarian cysts through tiny incisions in the abdomen and preserve the ovary. If the cyst is large or cancerous, one or both ovaries may need to be removed.
  • Monitoring. If you aren’t having symptoms, your doctor may suggest an ultrasound to check your cyst in a few months.

Your doctor will explain the goals, risks, and benefits of each recommended treatment option. You’ll be encouraged to ask questions and express your opinions as an equal partner in your own health care. 

Experienced Dignity Health doctors provide expert ovarian cyst treatment in Southern California.