How do ovarian cysts affect pregnancy. What are the early signs of pregnancy versus ovarian cysts. Can ovarian cysts be mistaken for pregnancy. How are ovarian cysts during pregnancy treated. What types of ovarian cysts impact fertility.

Understanding Ovarian Cysts: Types and Their Impact on Fertility

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or within a woman’s ovaries. While most cysts are harmless and resolve on their own, some types can affect fertility and pregnancy. Let’s explore the different types of ovarian cysts and their potential impact on conception:

Functional Cysts

Functional cysts are the most common type and typically don’t interfere with fertility. They include:

• Follicular cysts: These form when an egg-containing follicle fails to rupture and release the egg during ovulation.
• Corpus luteum cysts: These develop after ovulation when the follicle that released the egg doesn’t dissolve properly.

Do functional cysts affect pregnancy chances? Generally, functional cysts do not impact fertility. In fact, they often indicate normal ovarian function, which is crucial for conception.

Endometriomas

Endometriomas, also known as chocolate cysts, are associated with endometriosis. These cysts can potentially impact fertility by:

• Causing inflammation in the pelvic area
• Damaging ovarian tissue
• Interfering with ovulation

Can endometriomas be treated to improve fertility? Yes, treatment options such as hormonal therapy or surgical removal may help improve pregnancy chances for women with endometriomas.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is characterized by multiple small cysts on the ovaries, along with hormonal imbalances. This condition can affect fertility by:

• Causing irregular ovulation or anovulation
• Altering hormone levels necessary for conception
• Increasing the risk of miscarriage

How is PCOS managed to improve fertility? Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications to induce ovulation, and in some cases, assisted reproductive technologies.

Cystadenomas and Dermoid Cysts

These benign tumors typically don’t affect fertility unless they grow very large. In such cases, they may:

• Interfere with ovarian function
• Cause pain or discomfort during intercourse
• Require surgical removal, which could potentially impact ovarian reserve

When should these cysts be treated? Treatment is usually recommended if the cysts are large, causing symptoms, or there’s a concern about potential malignancy.

Early Pregnancy Symptoms vs. Ovarian Cyst Symptoms

Distinguishing between early pregnancy and ovarian cyst symptoms can be challenging, as there is some overlap. Here’s a comparison of common symptoms:

Missed Period

Is a missed period always a sign of pregnancy? While a missed period is often the first sign of pregnancy, it can also occur due to hormonal imbalances caused by ovarian cysts, particularly in women with PCOS.

Pelvic Pain or Discomfort

Both pregnancy and ovarian cysts can cause pelvic pain or discomfort. However, the nature and timing of the pain may differ:

• Pregnancy: Mild cramping or twinges, often described as similar to menstrual cramps
• Ovarian cysts: Sharp or dull pain, often on one side of the lower abdomen

Breast Changes

Breast tenderness and swelling can occur in both early pregnancy and due to hormonal changes associated with some types of ovarian cysts. How can you differentiate? Pregnancy-related breast changes are typically more pronounced and persistent.

Nausea and Vomiting

While commonly associated with pregnancy, nausea and vomiting can also occur with certain types of ovarian cysts, particularly if they rupture or cause ovarian torsion.

Bloating and Abdominal Swelling

Both conditions can cause bloating and abdominal swelling. In pregnancy, this is often due to hormonal changes, while with ovarian cysts, it may be due to the size of the cyst itself.

Can ovarian cysts mimic pregnancy symptoms? Yes, some ovarian cysts, particularly hormone-producing ones, can cause symptoms similar to early pregnancy, leading to confusion.

Diagnosing Ovarian Cysts During Pregnancy

Diagnosing ovarian cysts during pregnancy requires careful evaluation to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus. Here are the common diagnostic methods used:

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is the primary tool for diagnosing ovarian cysts during pregnancy. It allows healthcare providers to:

• Visualize the size, location, and characteristics of the cyst
• Monitor fetal development
• Assess any potential complications

How often should ultrasounds be performed? The frequency depends on the size and type of the cyst, as well as the stage of pregnancy.

Blood Tests

Blood tests may be used to:

• Check hormone levels
• Screen for tumor markers in cases where malignancy is suspected
• Assess overall health and pregnancy progression

Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination can help detect any visible or palpable abnormalities and assess any symptoms the patient may be experiencing.

Is it safe to diagnose ovarian cysts during pregnancy? Yes, when performed by experienced healthcare providers, these diagnostic methods are generally safe for both mother and baby.

Managing Ovarian Cysts During Pregnancy

The management of ovarian cysts during pregnancy depends on various factors, including the size and type of the cyst, the stage of pregnancy, and any associated symptoms or complications. Here are some common approaches:

Watchful Waiting

For many small, benign-appearing cysts, watchful waiting is the preferred approach. This involves:

• Regular ultrasound monitoring
• Tracking any changes in symptoms
• Avoiding activities that might increase the risk of cyst rupture

When is watchful waiting appropriate? This approach is often used for cysts smaller than 5 cm that appear simple or functional on ultrasound.

Medication

While many medications used to treat ovarian cysts are not safe during pregnancy, some options may be considered in specific situations:

• Pain management with pregnancy-safe analgesics
• Antibiotics if infection is suspected

Can hormonal treatments be used during pregnancy? Generally, hormonal treatments for ovarian cysts are avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus.

Surgery

In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. This is typically considered when:

• The cyst is very large (usually >10 cm)
• There are signs of malignancy
• The cyst is causing severe symptoms or complications

Is surgery safe during pregnancy? While any surgery carries risks, advancements in surgical techniques have made it possible to safely perform necessary procedures during pregnancy, especially during the second trimester.

Potential Complications of Ovarian Cysts in Pregnancy

While most ovarian cysts during pregnancy are harmless, some can lead to complications. Understanding these potential issues is crucial for proper management:

Cyst Rupture

A ruptured cyst can cause sudden, severe pain and internal bleeding. The risk of rupture increases with:

• Larger cyst size
• Certain types of cysts (e.g., endometriomas)
• Physical activity or trauma

How is a ruptured cyst during pregnancy managed? Treatment depends on the severity and may range from pain management to emergency surgery in severe cases.

Ovarian Torsion

Ovarian torsion occurs when an enlarged ovary twists on its supporting ligaments, cutting off its blood supply. This is a medical emergency that can cause:

• Severe, sudden abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever

Can ovarian torsion affect the pregnancy? If not treated promptly, ovarian torsion can lead to loss of the affected ovary and potentially impact the pregnancy.

Obstruction of Labor

Large ovarian cysts, particularly those located in the lower pelvis, can potentially obstruct the birth canal during labor. This may necessitate a cesarean section.

Increased Risk of Miscarriage

Some studies suggest a slightly increased risk of miscarriage in women with certain types of ovarian cysts, particularly corpus luteum cysts. However, the overall risk remains low for most women.

How can these complications be prevented? Regular prenatal check-ups, adherence to medical advice, and prompt reporting of any unusual symptoms are key to preventing and managing potential complications.

Fertility Treatments and Ovarian Cysts

For women struggling with fertility due to ovarian cysts, various treatment options are available. The choice of treatment depends on the type of cyst, the woman’s age, overall health, and fertility goals.

Ovulation Induction

For women with PCOS or other conditions causing anovulation, medications to induce ovulation may be prescribed. These include:

• Clomiphene citrate
• Letrozole
• Gonadotropins

How effective is ovulation induction? Success rates vary but can be as high as 80% in achieving ovulation, though pregnancy rates are typically lower.

Surgical Interventions

In some cases, surgical removal of cysts may be recommended to improve fertility. Procedures may include:

• Laparoscopic cystectomy
• Ovarian drilling (for PCOS)

What are the risks of surgical interventions? While generally safe, there is a small risk of reducing ovarian reserve, which could impact future fertility.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies

For women with persistent fertility issues, assisted reproductive technologies may be considered:

• Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
• In vitro fertilization (IVF)

How do ovarian cysts affect IVF success rates? The impact varies depending on the type and size of the cyst. Some cysts may need to be treated before beginning IVF, while others may not significantly affect the process.

Lifestyle Modifications

In addition to medical treatments, lifestyle changes can improve fertility outcomes for women with ovarian cysts:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular exercise
• Stress reduction techniques
• Balanced diet

Can lifestyle changes alone improve fertility in women with ovarian cysts? While not always sufficient on their own, lifestyle modifications can significantly enhance the effectiveness of other fertility treatments.

Long-term Outlook: Ovarian Cysts, Pregnancy, and Beyond

Understanding the long-term implications of ovarian cysts on reproductive health is crucial for women planning future pregnancies or managing their overall well-being. Let’s explore some key considerations:

Impact on Future Fertility

The long-term impact of ovarian cysts on fertility varies depending on the type of cyst and treatment received:

• Functional cysts typically don’t affect long-term fertility
• PCOS may require ongoing management to maintain fertility
• Surgical treatment of endometriomas or large cysts may potentially impact ovarian reserve

How can women preserve their fertility after ovarian cyst treatment? Regular check-ups, adhering to treatment plans, and discussing fertility preservation options with healthcare providers are essential steps.

Recurrence Risk

Some women may experience recurrent ovarian cysts. The risk of recurrence depends on various factors:

• Type of cyst
• Underlying conditions (e.g., endometriosis, PCOS)
• Hormonal factors

What can be done to prevent cyst recurrence? While not all recurrences can be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing underlying conditions, and regular medical follow-ups can help reduce the risk.

Long-term Health Considerations

Women with a history of ovarian cysts should be aware of potential long-term health implications:

• Increased risk of ovarian cancer in some cases (though most cysts are benign)
• Potential for chronic pelvic pain
• Impact on hormonal balance

How often should women with a history of ovarian cysts have check-ups? Regular gynecological exams, typically annual, are recommended. More frequent monitoring may be necessary for women with recurrent cysts or underlying conditions.

Psychological Impact

Dealing with ovarian cysts, especially when they affect fertility or pregnancy, can have psychological effects:

• Anxiety about future reproductive health
• Stress related to medical treatments
• Emotional challenges if fertility is affected

What support is available for women dealing with these challenges? Mental health support, counseling, and support groups can be valuable resources for women navigating the emotional aspects of ovarian cysts and fertility issues.

By understanding the long-term outlook and taking proactive steps in managing their health, women with a history of ovarian cysts can optimize their reproductive health and overall well-being. Regular communication with healthcare providers and staying informed about the latest developments in ovarian health are key to navigating this journey successfully.

Ovarian Cysts And Pregnancy – Understanding The Connection! – By Dr. G.K. Bedi

Last Updated: Jan 10, 2023

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Written ByDr. G.K. BediGynaecologist • 44 Years Exp.DGO, MBBS

Are you aware of the connection between ovarian cysts and pregnancy? A woman’s ovaries produce eggs and sex hormones, namely estrogen and progesterone. Sometimes, a sac filled with fluid may develop on one of your ovaries. Ovarian cysts are common and are experienced by all women in their lifetime. Commonly, these cysts are painless, accompanied by no specific symptoms. As the cysts grow, symptoms such as swelling or bloating, painful bowel movements, painful sexual intercourse, and pelvic pain during menstrual periods are indicated. Other symptoms like breast tenderness, lower back and thigh pain, nausea and vomiting are also likely.

Link between ovarian cysts and pregnancy
Ovarian cysts are connected to pregnancy as they are associated with a woman’s fertility. Some ovarian cysts which can affect your fertility and hence pregnancy include the following:

Endometriomas
• These are ovarian cysts, which are associated with complications in fertility and occur on account of endometriosis. This is a health condition in which the normal tissue lining around your uterus or the endometrium starts growing outside your uterus.

Ovarian cysts occurring because of polycystic ovary syndrome
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is featured by the development of several small cysts on the surface of your ovaries.

• Irregular menstrual periods and the increase in levels of certain hormones are indicated.
• This condition is associated with fertility. It results in irregular ovulation that causes complications in fertility in many women.

Ovarian cysts which only affect fertility after becoming large
There are some types of ovarian cysts, which do not affect fertility unless they become very large. They are as follows:

Functional cysts

• These cysts include corpus luteum cysts and follicular cysts. These are the most common forms of ovarian cysts.
• Functional cysts from a usual menstrual cycle do not contribute to infertility in any way. Instead, they indicate the functions, which lead to fertility.

Cystadenomas

• These are developments or growths in your ovaries. They usually occur from the surface of your ovaries.
• These cysts require treatment, but do not affect fertility in any negative way.

Dermoid cysts

• These are solid cysts containing tissues similar to skin, teeth and hair instead of fluid content.
• These cysts too are not related to infertility problems during pregnancy.

If you are diagnosed with ovarian cysts and are concerned whether they will affect your pregnancy, it is important for you to consult your doctor. You will be able to discuss the various treatment measures, which revive your pregnancy chances.  

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

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5 Early Signs That You May Be Pregnant: Solace Women’s Care: Obstetrics & Gynecology

5 Early Signs That You May Be Pregnant: Solace Women’s Care: Obstetrics & Gynecology

Ovulation is the point in your menstrual cycle when you can get pregnant. It occurs in the middle of your cycle, when an egg is released from your ovaries. The time between ovulation and your next period is 10-14 days, on average. 

The most obvious early sign of pregnancy is a missed period. But waiting nearly two weeks until you miss a period isn’t easy if you’re hoping to get pregnant. 

Pregnancy is a complicated, natural process that triggers changes throughout your body — and some of these changes start almost immediately after conception. Learning to notice the early signs of pregnancy can help you determine whether you could be expecting.

Farly Sejour, MD, and our OB/GYN team at Solace Women’s Care partner with you from the very beginning of your pregnancy. We offer comprehensive prenatal care to ensure you stay healthy and your baby has the best possible start to life.

Wondering if you might be pregnant? Learn more about some of the most common early signs of pregnancy.

1. Missed period

Your menstrual cycle might be the best way to identify whether you’re pregnant, and the most noticeable symptom of early pregnancy is missing your period. In general, you might be pregnant if your period is at least a week late. 

However, a missed period doesn’t always indicate pregnancy, particularly if your periods are typically irregular. If you miss a period or you get a positive result with an at-home pregnancy test, schedule your first prenatal appointment with Dr. Sejour.

2. Nausea

Nausea is a hallmark of early pregnancy. It’s often called morning sickness, but nausea can happen at any time of the day or night. Feelings of nausea may or may not be accompanied by vomiting.

Some women begin to feel nauseous around their fifth week of pregnancy, while others may not suffer nausea until week eight or later. Not every woman experiences nausea or vomiting during pregnancy.

3. Fatigue

Fatigue is extreme tiredness, and it’s a common sign of early pregnancy. Hormonal changes that prepare your body for a growing baby can sap your energy and make you feel drowsy or exhausted.

To counteract tiredness, make sure you get enough sleep. Begin eating a healthy, balanced diet, and consider adding pregnancy-safe exercise to your daily routine to boost energy.

4. Breast sensitivity

Hormonal changes can make your breasts tender, sensitive, or swollen in the first few weeks of pregnancy. These negative symptoms may disappear after a month or so, when your body adjusts to higher hormone levels.

You might notice changes in the way your breasts look, too. As breast tissue thickens in preparation for milk production, veins get more visible and nipples may change color.  

5. Light bleeding or cramping

It can take up to two weeks after conception for the fertilized egg to implant in your uterine lining. Light bleeding and cramping are common when implantation occurs. Uterine expansion in the first few months of pregnancy may also cause cramps.

Since cramps and spotting are common premenstrual symptoms, it’s possible to mistake implantation symptoms as the arrival of your period. If you think you might be pregnant, take an at-home test or make an appointment at our office.

Seek immediate medical care if you get intense cramping or vaginal bleeding at any point during pregnancy. These can be a sign of miscarriage or other complications.

While these symptoms can be early signs that you may be pregnant, every woman experiences pregnancy differently. Your symptoms won’t be exactly like those of your friends. In fact, the symptoms you notice with your first pregnancy might vary from your second, and so on.

Partner with Dr. Sejour and our team, whether you’re pregnant or considering trying for a baby. Call our Conroe, Texas, office today at 936-441-7100 to book your first appointment. You can also send a message to our team here on our website.

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Nearly every woman experiences symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) during her lifetime. But is it really normal for severe symptoms like anger, depression, and physical pain to interfere with your daily life? No — and here’s why.

Ovarian cyst during pregnancy. What is an ovarian cyst during pregnancy?

IMPORTANT
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

An ovarian cyst during pregnancy is a volumetric neoplasm in the form of a cavity with liquid contents that can exist before fertilization or form after the conception of a child. With a small size of cysts, an asymptomatic course is possible, as the fetus grows, pains appear in the suprapubic region of varying intensity, radiating to the groin or sacrum, urination disorders, and constipation. For diagnosis, ultrasound of the pelvic organs is used, which is supplemented by color Doppler mapping. Conservative therapy is aimed at maintaining pregnancy and alleviating the condition. Removal of cysts is performed after the maturation of the placenta.

ICD-10

D27 Benign neoplasm of ovary

• Causes
• Pathogenesis
• Classification
• Symptoms
• Complications
• Diagnostics
• Treatment
  • Conservative therapy
  • Surgical treatment
• Prognosis and prevention
• Prices for treatment

General

An ovarian cyst is more often detected in patients of late reproductive age, usually exists even before conception, due to hormonal and immune changes during gestation, it increases in volume. Cystic formations are diagnosed in 0.02-0.46% of women bearing a child. A direct relationship between the appearance of cysts and pregnancy has not been established. In adolescents and patients over 45 years of age, there is a risk of malignancy of the neoplasm under the influence of endocrine factors.

ovarian cyst during pregnancy

Causes

The exact causes of ovarian cysts during pregnancy are unknown. The most popular theory suggests the influence of endocrine disorders, which can be provoked by external or internal factors, or a combination of them. The development of the disease is facilitated by:

• Sexual infections. Chronic inflammatory diseases of the ovaries can cause disruption of proliferation processes in organ tissues. During pregnancy, the immune system weakens, the infection enters the active phase, which provokes the growth of the cyst.
• Hormonal changes. Associated with a decrease in estrogen production and an increase in the stimulating effect of FSH. They cause diffuse and then focal hyperplasia and proliferation of ovarian cells.
• Abortions. Termination of pregnancy causes fluctuations in the endocrine status, increases the risk of infection of the genital organs. This leads to a violation of the hormonal regulation of the sex glands and proliferative processes.
• Heredity. The likelihood of developing the disease is increased in women who have a maternal history of ovarian cysts.
• Prolonged absence of pregnancy. Regular ovulation is considered a damaging factor for ovarian tissue. If the patient does not become pregnant and does not take oral contraceptives that inhibit the ovaries and the maturation of the follicles, the risk of cyst formation increases.

Pathogenesis

The development of ovarian cysts often begins before pregnancy. Violation of neuroendocrine regulation leads to a weakening of the function of the sex glands. The stimulating effect of FSH triggers proliferation processes. The source of focal hyperplasia can be normal cells that form ovarian tissues, or the remains of embryonic rudiments. In the latter case, cysts prone to malignancy appear.

With regular ovulation, ovarian tissue is damaged at the time of rupture of the follicle. The spilled liquid contains a large amount of estrogens, which increase cell proliferation. In older women, along with conventional estrogens, altered phenol steroids appear that can cause malignancy of cysts, so malignant tumors are often diagnosed in premenopausal pregnant women.

Ovarian cysts found during pregnancy can also be due to endometriosis. The pathogenesis of endometrioid cysts is associated with retrograde reflux of menstrual blood or with the remnants of embryonic tissue in the gonads. Under the influence of hormonal fluctuations, the epithelium in the cyst cavity is rejected, but does not go beyond the capsule and forms its contents.

Classification

Ovarian cysts during pregnancy are classified according to the histological structure, less often – according to the mechanism of origin. The division into types is the same as for neoplasms that have arisen outside the period of gestation. Histological classification includes:

• Epithelial. Serous, endometrioid, clear cell and mixed cysts, Brenner’s tumor.
• From the stroma of the sex cord. Thecoma, fibroma.
• Germinogenic. Dermoid cysts, chorionepitheliomas and ovarian struma.
• Tumor-like processes. Endometriosis, pregnancy luteoma, superficial epithelial and paraovarian cysts, polycystic, hyperthecosis.

Symptoms

Clinical manifestations do not depend on the histological structure of the ovarian cyst during pregnancy. At an early stage, there are no signs of the disease, the duration of the asymptomatic course can reach several years. Subsequently, aching dull pains in the lower abdomen are periodically disturbed, which can radiate to the groin, perineum, and lumbosacral region. Sometimes, before conception, the patient does not know about the existence of a neoplasm, the diagnosis is made during registration and a routine examination.

For the first trimester, the progression of symptoms is uncharacteristic. From 12-13 weeks, the uterus increases in size, changes the location of the appendages, can compress the cyst and cause tension in its capsule. Pain in the lower abdomen intensifies, especially with a change in body position. Acute pain indicates the development of complications – torsion of the legs of the ovarian cyst.

Complications

An ovarian cyst in 18% of cases causes a short-term abortion, the likelihood of complications is determined by the hormonal activity of the neoplasm and the existing risk factors for spontaneous miscarriage. In 12% of pregnant women, serous or dermoid cysts twist at the base. Torsion is accompanied by compression of the vessels supplying the tumor and tissue necrosis. Need emergency care and hospitalization in the gynecological department.

In the 2-3 trimester, with neoplasms of a significant size, the fetus occupies the wrong position – oblique or transverse, which makes it difficult to give birth through the natural birth canal and becomes an indication for caesarean section. If the patient gives birth on her own, at the end of the 1st stage of labor, with the appearance of attempts, there is a possibility of rupture of the cyst capsule and the addition of an acute abdomen clinic.

Large and inactive cystic masses can interfere with the advancement of the fetal head, so the preservation of the tumor before delivery increases the risk of labor anomalies and injuries in the newborn. Malignant degeneration of an ovarian cyst during pregnancy occurs in 25% of women with this pathology.

Diagnostics

Suspicion of an ovarian cyst may occur during examination or routine examination of a pregnant woman. The diagnosis is established in cooperation with an oncogynecologist or oncologist, who exclude the malignant nature of the tumor. The following diagnostic methods are used:

• Gynecological examination. In a bimanual study over the Douglas space, a mobile tugoelastic formation is determined. The shape of a benign cyst is round or oval, the surface is smooth.
• Gynecological ultrasound. A benign ovarian cyst during pregnancy looks like a smooth-walled single-chamber formation of a rounded shape with even contours. The contents are hypoechoic or anechoic.
• CDC. Ovarian cysts are characterized by blood flow in single vessels located in the capsule. A large number of tortuous and irregularly shaped vessels testifies in favor of malignancy.
• SA-125, SA 19-9. Tumor markers are determined for differential diagnosis with a malignant tumor. The analysis is highly specific, with an increase in the rate of more than 35 mU / ml, 78-100% of pregnant women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Treatment

If an ovarian cyst is detected at the conception planning stage, surgical treatment is recommended before pregnancy. In other cases, tactics depend on the type of neoplasia. With follicular and luteal cysts, treatment is not always required, since in most women the formations disappear on their own within 2-3 cycles. For other types of cysts, hormonal therapy is used at the initial stage, with ineffectiveness, laparoscopic removal.

Conservative therapy

Treatment of ovarian cysts in early pregnancy is carried out by conservative methods, aimed at preserving the fetus and reducing unpleasant symptoms. A complete cure by medical methods is impossible. Hospitalization in the gynecology department is necessary in the first trimester when there is a threat of interruption of gestation. From the second trimester, women are sent to the department of pathology of pregnant women. The following groups of drugs are used:

• Gestagens. Oral or vaginal progesterone tablets are indicated to maintain corpus luteum function and maintain pregnancy.
• Antispasmodics. They are prescribed to reduce the tone of the myometrium. Pregnant women are allowed to take drugs based on drotaverine or papaverine in the form of tablets, rectal suppositories or injections.
• β-blockers. They are used to reduce the tone of the uterus after 24 weeks. In the early stages, they are ineffective due to the lack of appropriate receptors.

Surgical treatment

In most patients, cysts up to 10 cm in diameter accidentally discovered in the 1st trimester are luteal and regress independently after the final formation of the placenta. For other tumors, surgery is indicated. If the ovarian cyst at the beginning of pregnancy proceeds without complications, the intervention is refrained until 16 weeks of gestation. With elevated tumor markers, surgical treatment is carried out as early as possible.

Laparoscopic access is used, which reduces the risk of complications and shortens the rehabilitation period. When carrying out the operation at a later date, a laparotomy is performed. The volume of intervention is determined intraoperatively based on the results of an urgent histological examination, varies from cyst removal to ovarian resection. In severe cases, an oophorectomy is performed, which does not affect the bearing of the fetus.

Prognosis and prevention

The prognosis of ovarian cysts during pregnancy is usually favorable. Timely removal of the neoplasm allows you to bear the child and give birth on time. The reproductive function does not suffer, there are no contraindications for subsequent pregnancies. In order not to increase the risk of complications during the gestation period, cystic formations must be treated at the conception planning stage.

Specific prevention of the disease has not been developed. Unprotected sex should be abandoned, timely treatment of inflammatory diseases of the genital organs should be carried out, and abortions should be avoided. Patients who do not plan pregnancy and do not have contraindications to hormonal therapy are recommended to use oral contraceptives to prevent hyperplastic processes of the reproductive organs.

You can share your medical history, what helped you in the treatment of ovarian cysts during pregnancy.

Sources

1. Obstetrics. National leadership / ed. Ailamazyan E.K., Kulakov V.I., Radzinsky V.E., Savelieva G.M. – 2009.
2. Ovarian tumors in pregnant women / Bakhidze E.V. / / Journal of Obstetrics and Women’s Diseases – 2011 – T. LX, No. 3.
3. Tumors and tumor-like formations of the ovaries. Guidelines for doctors / Belskikh O.L., Kuzmenko G.Yu., Klyuchnikova T.N., Kozlova N.F. – 2017.
4. This article was prepared based on the site materials: https://www.krasotaimedicina.ru/

IMPORTANT
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

Paraovarian ovarian cyst and pregnancy

• Causes of paraovarian cyst formation
• Symptoms and diagnosis
• Complications of paraovarian cyst
• Treatment of paraovarian ovarian cyst
• Doctors
• Shares

A paraovarian cyst occurs in approximately 10% of ovarian cysts. Against the background of this disease, there are no problems with conception in women, but if pregnancy has already occurred, then the risk of complications of a paraovarian ovarian cyst increases slightly. In addition, the paraovarian cyst never “resolves” on its own. Its growth rate and maximum size are unpredictable. Therefore, it is better to diagnose a cyst and, if necessary, remove it even before pregnancy. But if it was found in a woman who is already in a position, you should not panic!

Seek advice from an experienced gynecologist!

Causes of paraovarian cyst formation

In the vast majority of cases, a paraovarian ovarian cyst forms on only one side of the uterus. In this regard, doctors distinguish:

• paraovarian cyst of the left ovary,
• paraovarian cyst of the right ovary.

Paraovarian cyst usually appears in women of childbearing age. To provoke its formation can:

• ovarian failure,
• abnormal follicle maturation,
• disorders in the functioning of the endocrine system,
• infectious diseases,
• medical abortions in the past.

Paraovarian cysts often reach large sizes in women who are expecting a baby. The reason is the fluctuation of the hormonal background, in particular, a significant increase in the level of female hormones. In this case, it is necessary to be regularly observed by a gynecologist so that the doctor monitors the growth of the cyst and, if necessary, has the opportunity to quickly take measures to remove it.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Often, the paraovarian cyst does not reach large sizes (its diameter usually ranges from a few millimeters to 2 centimeters) and practically does not manifest itself, so it is found by chance during a routine ultrasound examination.

But when the cyst grows, it can compress the intestines or bladder, causing pulling, aching pains in the abdomen and sacrum, discomfort during intimacy. Large paraovarian cysts of both the left ovary and the right ovary can be easily detected by a gynecologist even without ultrasound during palpation.

Complications of paraovarian cyst

Usually, with a paraovarian ovarian cyst, there is no threat to pregnancy or fetal development. Large cysts do not develop into malignant tumors and rupture in rather rare cases, but, nevertheless, require constant monitoring by a gynecologist, since they carry another danger. Unlike small ones, large paraovarian cysts in pregnant women move as the uterus grows and form a pedicle that can twist and cause sharp pain in the pelvic area. Twisting also contributes to the development of necrosis (necrosis) of the cyst itself. In this case, most likely, surgery will be required.

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Treatment of paraovarian ovarian cyst

With a paraovarian ovarian cyst of a small size, therapy is not needed. If the cyst is constantly growing or an inflammatory process is detected during the examination, then surgical intervention will be required. Therefore, the operation must be done either when planning a pregnancy before conception, or after pregnancy.

Previously, an extensive strip operation was performed with a large incision in the lower abdomen (laparotomy). The modern method of surgical treatment is a laparoscopic operation, which is performed through 3 small punctures in the abdomen and practically does not leave behind cosmetic defects.

For all questions related to the diagnosis and treatment, as well as the removal of the paraovarian cyst, you can contact the gynecologists of our center at any time! You can make an appointment either by calling +7 (495) 266-85-71 or by filling out the online form below.

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Moscow

Lysenko Natalia Vladimirovna

Chief physician, chief obstetrician-gynecologist, doctor of the highest category, gynecologist-endocrinologist, specialist in aesthetic gynecology

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Ter-Ovakimyan Armen Eduardovich

Obstetrician-gynecologist, doctor of the highest category, DMN, professor

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Mavropulo Maria Georgievna

Leading obstetrician-gynecologist ON CLINIC, doctor of the highest category

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Nemirovsky Lev Lazarevich

Urologist-gynecologist, sexologist, family doctor, Head. otd. obstetrics and gynecology

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Senichkina Svetlana Nikolaevna

Leading obstetrician-gynecologist ON CLINIC, gynecologist-endocrinologist, doctor of the highest category

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Torosyants-Abramyan Anna Grigorievna

Leading obstetrician-gynecologist, endocrinologist, doctor of the highest category, specialist in anti-aging medicine

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Tsomaeva Elena Alexandrovna

Leading obstetrician-gynecologist, reproductive specialist, KMN, Head. department of obstetrics and gynecology

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Aghayan Lilit Genrievna

Leading obstetrician-gynecologist, doctor of the highest category, specialist in anti-aging and preventive medicine

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Vekilyan Hovhannes Mikayelovich

Obstetrician-gynecologist, doctor of the highest category

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Gerasimova Ekaterina Vladimirovna

Leading obstetrician-gynecologist, gynecologist-endocrinologist, doctor of the highest category

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Gutnikova Victoria Yakovlevna

Leading obstetrician-gynecologist, candidate of medical sciences, doctor of the highest category, gynecologist-endocrinologist, leading reproductologist, specialist in aesthetic gynecology

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Datieva Yana Valerievna

Obstetrician-gynecologist, doctor of the highest category

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Ionova Elena Vasilievna

Obstetrician-gynecologist, doctor of the highest category, KMN

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Koveshnikova Tatyana Vladimirovna

Obstetrician-gynecologist, reproductologist, doctor of the highest category

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Kurdyaeva Lyubov Ilyinichna

Leading obstetrician-gynecologist, doctor of the highest category

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Lavachinskaya Aksana Vitalievna

Leading obstetrician-gynecologist, endocrinologist, reproductologist, doctor of the highest category, Deputy.