How to check for ovarian cysts?

Written by Xia Hu
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on November 20, 2024
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There are two methods for examining ovarian cysts. Firstly, through a gynecological examination, especially in cases of sexual activity, a bimanual examination can be conducted. Under bimanual examination, a mass in one of the adnexal areas can be palpated, where the nature of the mass such as whether its boundaries are clear can be observed, as well as checking for tenderness. This allows for the examination of ovarian cysts. Another method involves an ultrasound. Generally, if performing an abdominal ultrasound, it is necessary to hold urine to view the ovaries clearly. If performing a vaginal ultrasound, especially in cases of sexual activity, this can be chosen; thus, the ultrasound can provide a clearer view. It is closer to the uterus and ovaries, and thus under ultrasound, the masses in the ovaries can be detected. Therefore, both of these methods are viable.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to treat ovarian cysts?

The majority of ovarian cysts are physiological. If an ovarian cyst is detected for the first time during an ultrasound, it can be observed temporarily. Generally, such cysts will gradually shrink or disappear naturally after two to three months. If the cyst is relatively large, exceeding 5cm, and the ovary has not shrunk after two to three months of observation, but instead the cyst has grown, it is likely an ovarian tumor, which requires surgical treatment. If an ovarian tumor occurs, there is a potential for malignancy or torsion, so timely surgical intervention is necessary.

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Written by Xia Hu
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Symptoms of ovarian cyst carcinogenesis

The main symptom of malignant transformation of ovarian cysts is increased abdominal pain, which generally occurs on one side, including either the left or right side, since the ovaries are present on both sides. If the cyst is unilateral, rapid growth can cause lower abdominal distension and pain. Therefore, when such symptoms aggravate, timely examination is necessary. Initially, a gynecological examination is recommended to assess the boundaries of the ovarian cyst and to palpate its nature and texture. These are essential evaluations. If there is a potential for malignancy, sometimes nodular changes, which may be metastases, can be detected in the posterior cul-de-sac. Subsequently, an ultrasound should be performed, with vaginal ultrasound generally providing greater accuracy.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is an adnexal cyst the same as an ovarian cyst?

Adnexa clinically refers to the fallopian tubes and ovaries combined, thus, adnexal cysts are not necessarily ovarian cysts. During gynecological ultrasound, these are often reported as cysts in the adnexal area because the proximity of the ovaries and fallopian tubes makes it difficult to conclusively determine if an adnexal cyst is an ovarian cyst. Clinically, cysts in the fallopian tubes are also referred to as cysts in the adnexal area. Distinguishing them often requires surgery to see the exact location of the cyst for identification.

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Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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malignant symptoms of ovarian cysts

Malignant ovarian cysts, commonly known as ovarian cancer, often present with no symptoms in most people. Patients generally do not exhibit any specific symptoms. In advanced stages, however, symptoms such as ascites and abdominal swelling or pain may occur due to the cyst pressing on other organs in the abdomen. Initially, these symptoms might be mistaken for gastrointestinal issues, hence the importance of undergoing a gynecological ultrasound examination. In early stages, ovarian tumors may not show any symptoms, so it is recommended that women undergo tumor marker tests, such as CA125 and HE4, as well as routine ultrasound examinations.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How is ovarian cyst surgery performed?

Currently, in clinical practice for ovarian cyst surgery, options include open surgery and laparoscopic surgery. The choice of surgery type needs to be based on the extent of the patient's ovarian cyst, the patient's wishes, and the size of the surgical area, which are all factors that should be integrated into the decision-making process. Furthermore, the specific implementation of the surgery also needs to consider the patient's age, the nature of the ovarian cyst, and the patient's wishes. Options available include ovarian cystectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy. If the tumor is malignant, a more extensive surgical approach may be required.