We continue to remain in-network with United/Oxford, Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross and other major insurers. Please contact us at scheduler@obgynwestside.com with any questions.
Skip to main content

Ovarian Cysts

OBGYN Westside, PLLC

Obstetrics & Gynecology located on the Upper West Side, New York, NY

Most women develop ovarian cysts during their reproductive years; fortunately, many of these cysts largely go unnoticed. In fewer than 10% of cases, however, the cysts become problematic and require treatment. At OBGYN Westside, PLLC, the team of board-certified OB/GYNs has considerable experience helping women on the Upper West Side of New York City, manage troublesome ovarian cysts. For more information, please call or use the online booking feature.

Ovarian Cysts Q & A

What are ovarian cysts?

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on your ovaries. There are many types of ovarian cysts, most of which are completely benign (non cancerous). 

The two main types of ovarian cysts are functional cysts (i.e., they result from the “function” of your menstrual cycle) and nonfunctional ovarian cysts.  

Functional cysts include follicular and corpus luteum cysts, while nonfunctional cysts are endometriomas (or “chocolate” cysts), dermoid cysts, and cysts that may be worrisome for precancer or cancer. 

The vast majority of cysts are benign and functional.  

What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts?

Most ovarian cysts don’t present any outward symptoms and resolve themselves without you ever becoming aware of the condition. In fewer than 10% of cases, however, the cyst may not resolve itself and lead to:

  • Bloating
  • Abnormal bleeding
  • Pelvic pressure or pain
  • Frequent urination
  • Problems with fertility

If your cyst ruptures or twists around your ovary, you will likely experience severe pain and you should seek immediate treatment, but this is a relatively rare occurrence.

What is polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is different from functional cysts and is caused by a hormonal imbalance that leads to the formation of many small cysts on your ovaries that can interfere with their function. In fact, PCOS is the most common hormonal imbalance in women, and is one of the leading causes of infertility. 

PCOS is strongly associated with high insulin levels and obesity and is linked to diabetes, hypertension, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Because PCOS is a hormonal problem, your symptoms have little to do with the cysts, but more to do with imbalanced hormones, and include:

  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Acne
  • Facial hair
  • Thinning hair on your head
  • Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
  • Pre-diabetes and diabetes
  • Infertility 

How are ovarian cysts managed?

If you have problematic ovarian cysts, your doctor at OBGYN Westside manages the condition through vigilant oversight and may recommend hormonal medications to prevent new cysts from forming.

If your cyst is large, your GYN may recommend surgery to remove it, but this is an uncommon development.

If you are diagnosed with PCOS, your doctor will work with you closely to first help you understand this complex condition and then manage it. 

PCOS responds often to lifestyle and nutritional management and the effects can be reversed with proper guidance. Some women may need hormonal balancing or additional therapies, and those seeking pregnancy have a number of different options as well. 

It is important to understand PCOS and gain the tools to improve it as it has such wide-ranging effects on your total health. 

At OBGYN Westside, the team is committed to helping each patient with PCOS optimize not just their reproductive wellbeing, but also their overall health and vitality. 

For more information about ovarian cysts and PCOS, please call OBGYN Westside or use the online scheduling tool to set up an appointment.

Looking for a new OB? We are ready to help you through your pregnancy.

Testimonials

Words from our patients

  • 5 star

    "This is a wonderful practice. I send all of my friends daughters who live in NYC to this practice. The doctors are attentive and caring."

    Rosalie S.
  • 5 star

    "Absolutely love the doctors and staff here. Always welcoming, informative, and treated very well. Just delivered my second baby... and couldn’t recommend them more."

    Alex L.
  • 5 star

    "All the doctors in the practice are patient and wonderful. I had an emergency c section and difficult recovery, but I knew I was in good hands."

    Becky B.
  • ZocDoc

    "Just a terrific and thoughtful doctor and a super-efficient yet still warm experience. I was in and out in the shortest time possible."

    Naomi N.
  • ZocDoc

    "Short wait (5-10 minutes after filling out new patient paperwork) and they made me feel very comfortable. Can't ask for more!"

    Sophia J.
  • ZocDoc

    "I was really blown away by how personal and caring she was. I haven't seen someone like that in a long time and it was such a nice surprise."

    Verified Patient
  • 5 star

    "She is not only kind but really respects and listens to her patients. A friend recommended her saying she was the best and she was not wrong."

    Antonia A.