Ovarian cysts are common, fluid-filled sacs that can form on the ovaries. While many are harmless and resolve without intervention, their presence often raises questions, particularly about their size and potential implications.
What Are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are sacs of fluid that develop on or within an ovary. They are a common occurrence, with most individuals developing at least one cyst during their lifetime, often without symptoms. These cysts are frequently a normal part of the menstrual cycle, forming as an egg matures and is released.
Interpreting Cyst Size
A 1.8 cm ovarian cyst is generally considered small. While size is one factor healthcare providers consider, it is often less significant than other characteristics, such as the cyst’s appearance or symptoms. Small cysts are frequently functional, arising from the normal menstrual cycle, and typically resolve on their own within a few months. Though not usually alarming, ongoing evaluation may be recommended if symptoms develop or other concerning features are present.
Common Types of Ovarian Cysts
The concern with an ovarian cyst depends more on its type than its size. Functional cysts are the most common benign type, forming as part of the menstrual cycle; these include follicular cysts, which develop if a follicle does not rupture to release an egg, and corpus luteum cysts, which form if the follicle reseals after releasing an egg. Other non-cancerous types include dermoid cysts (teratomas), which can contain various tissues like hair, skin, or teeth, and cystadenomas, filled with watery fluid or mucus. Endometriomas, also known as “chocolate cysts,” occur when endometrial tissue grows on the ovaries. Cancerous cysts are rare, especially when cysts are small.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Certain symptoms warrant medical attention, regardless of a cyst’s size. Seek professional evaluation if you experience sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain. Pain accompanied by fever or vomiting requires immediate medical help. Other indicators for medical advice include persistent bloating, a feeling of fullness or pressure in the abdomen, painful intercourse, or noticeable changes in menstrual cycles. These symptoms, rather than just the cyst’s presence or size, are important signals for seeking a healthcare provider’s assessment.
Diagnosis and Next Steps
Ovarian cysts are typically diagnosed through a pelvic exam and imaging tests, with ultrasound being the most common method, providing clear images to assess the cyst’s size, location, and whether it is fluid-filled or solid. Blood tests, such as CA-125, may also be performed, though elevated levels can result from various non-cancerous conditions and are not a definitive indicator of cancer. For small, asymptomatic cysts, “watchful waiting” is a common management approach, monitoring the cyst with repeat ultrasounds over several months to see if it resolves. If a cyst is large, causes persistent symptoms, or has concerning features, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgical options include laparoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure, or laparotomy for larger or more complex cysts.