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February 10, 2012

Ovarian Cysts (cont.)

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What are the risks of ovarian cysts during pregnancy?

Ovarian cysts are sometimes discovered during pregnancy. In most cases, they are found as an incidental finding at the time of routine prenatal ultrasound screening. The majority of ovarian cysts found during pregnancy are benign tumors that do not require surgical intervention. However, surgery may be indicated if there is a suspicion of malignancy, if an acute complication such as rupture or torsion (twisting of the cyst, disrupting the blood supply) develops, or if the size of the cyst is likely to present problems with the pregnancy.

Ovarian Cysts At A Glance

  • Ovarian cysts closed, sac-like structures within the ovary that are filled with a liquid, semisolid, or gaseous substance.

  • Ovarian cysts form for numerous reasons.

  • When a cyst causes symptoms, pain in the belly or pelvis is by far the most common one.

  • Most cysts are diagnosed by ultrasound.

  • The treatment of ovarian cysts depends upon the individual situation and varies from observation and monitoring to surgical procedures.

REFERENCE: eMedicine.com. Ovarian Cysts.
<http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/255865-overview>

Previous contributing author: Carolyn Crandall, MD, FACP


Last Editorial Review: 9/24/2010


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