Ovarian Cyst Specialist
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John A. Whitfield, MD
Gynecology and Gynecologic Surgery located in Fort Worth, TX
Ovarian cysts can either be harmless growths that go unnoticed or malignant growths that can put your life at risk. Dr. John Whitfield is skilled in diagnosing and treating all types of ovarian cysts, helping women in all stages of their lives from throughout the greater Fort Worth area in Texas resolve symptoms and enjoy optimal health. Call Dr. John Whitfield’s office or book an appointment online today.
Ovarian Cyst Q & A
What is an ovarian cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac in or on the ovary. There are many types of ovarian cysts. Three of the most common varieties of ovarian cysts are endometriomas (cysts associated with endometriosis); cancerous cysts; and functional cysts, which happen as a result of ovulation.
What are the symptoms of a functional cyst?
You may not know you have a functional cyst because, in some women, functional cysts cause no problems or symptoms. For other women, functional cysts can cause abdominal pain, bloating, menstrual irregularities, nausea, and vomiting.
How does my doctor know I have an ovarian cyst?
Dr. Whitfield will feel a cyst during your annual pelvic exam. If you do have a cyst, Dr. Whitfield will probably want you to have a sonogram so he can have a full understanding of what’s happening in your body. Dr. Whitfield will make a custom treatment plan based on your age, the way the cyst looks on the sonogram, and what type of symptoms you’re experiencing.
What is a sonogram?
A sonogram uses sound waves to make pictures of organs in the body. It lasts about 30 minutes, is performed in the office, and isn’t painful.
How are ovarian cysts treated?
Most of the time, cysts will go away on their own. But if the cyst is causing extreme symptoms and conservative treatment has not been successful, Dr. Whitfield may opt to do surgery.
What types of surgery are used to treat ovarian cysts?
Laparoscopy is a type of minimally invasive surgery that is done with a lighted instrument called a laparoscope that’s like a slender telescope. The surgeon puts the laparoscope into your abdomen through a small incision (cut) just above or just below your belly button. With the laparoscope, Dr. Whitfield can see your organs. Often Dr.Whitfield can remove the cyst through small incisions at the pubic hairline.
If the cyst looks too big to remove with the laparoscope or if it looks suspicious in any way, Dr. Whitfield is likely to do a laparotomy. A laparotomy uses a bigger incision to remove the cyst or possibly the entire affected ovary and fallopian tube. While you are under general anesthesia, Dr. Whitfield will examine the cyst to determine if it is malignant or benign. If it is cancer, Dr. Whitfield will take steps to ensure the best possible outcome.
Before going into surgery, Dr. Whitfield will make certain that you have the total understanding of the procedure, possible outcomes, and recovery time.
If you are experiencing symptoms of ovarian cysts, seeing Dr. Whitfield immediately is important. To make an appointment with Dr. Whitfield, call or request an appointment online today.
