Ovarian Cyst Treatment

Treatment will depend on factors like your age, your symptoms and what’s likely causing your cyst.

• Watchful Waiting : Functional ovarian cysts usually go away without treatment. If your cyst is likely functional, your provider may suggest a wait-and-see approach. You may have a follow-up ultrasound within a few weeks or months after your diagnosis to see if your cyst has resolved on its own.
• Ovarian Cyst Medications : Your provider may give you medications containing hormones (such as birth control pills) to stop ovulation and prevent future cysts from forming.
• Ovarian Cyst Surgery : If a cyst is causing symptoms and getting bigger, you may need surgery to remove it. The type of surgery depends on the size of the cyst and how it appears on the ultrasound. The different procedures used include:
  • Laparoscopy : This is a procedure where your provider inserts a small camera through a small incision in your abdomen. They view your reproductive organs and pelvic cavity using the device. The ovarian cyst can be removed through tiny incisions (ovarian cystectomy).
  • Laparotomy : Your provider may perform this procedure if the cyst is very large or if there are other concerns.