Ovarian Cysts and Fertility
You may have heard the term “ovarian cyst” before but had no idea what it meant. Chances are you’ve experienced some form of ovarian cyst already but not even realized it. That may sound like cause for alarm, but it shouldn’t necessarily be. Dr. Sonja B. Kristiansen has helped countless people in the Houston, TX area who have ovarian cysts.
The team at Houston Fertility Center would like to go over some of the basics regarding ovarian cysts and their impact on women’s health. Ultimately, we intend to provide an answer to the following question: “Is infertility treatment needed for ovarian cysts?”
What Is an Ovarian Cyst?
A cyst refers to a fluid-filled sac that can form in various parts of the body. Ovarian cysts are cysts that form on the ovaries, which is where all of a woman’s eggs are located.
Cysts on the ovaries are quite common, and they do not always have a negative impact on a woman’s health or wellness.
Can Ovarian Cysts Cause Infertility?
Ovarian cysts can potentially cause infertility, but only if they are associated with certain medical conditions that are known to have an impact on reproductive health. The nature and cause of the cyst are important to consider with regard to female fertility matters.
Conditions That Cause Infertility and Ovarian Cysts
The following health conditions result in the formation of ovarian cysts as well as infertility:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which many small cysts develop on the ovaries. This can lead to changes in hormone levels, irregular periods, and a host of other problems that impact female fertility.
- Endometriosis - Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines the interior of the uterus grows on the outside of the uterus. During a monthly cycle, this shed tissue cannot leave the body and can lead to the development of cysts. The cysts from endometriosis are known as endometriomas.
Causes of Ovarian Cysts That Do Not Impact Fertility
The following types of ovarian cysts do not cause infertility:
- Functional Cysts - The most common type of ovarian cysts, functional cysts form during a woman's normal menstrual cycle. These cysts do not affect fertility, and may actually be a sign that normal functions in the ovaries are occurring.
- Cystadenomas - Cystadenomas are cysts that form inside of the ovaries that arise from the surface of the ovaries. While these kinds of cysts might require medical treatment, they have no impact on female fertility.
- Dermoid Cysts - Rather than fluid-filled sacs, dermoid cysts are full of tissue. This might include skin, hair, or even teeth. These cysts do not result in infertility.
Will I Need Surgical Treatment for My Ovarian Cysts?
It depends on the type of cyst you have and the recommendation of your general practitioner and/or fertility doctor. A full consultation will be necessary to assess your situation and determine the ideal course of treatment.
Keep in mind that surgery may be purely for health concerns and may not address issues associated with fertility. We can discuss potential fertility treatments with you in greater detail during your visit to the practice.
Learn More About Female Fertility Issues
For more information about female infertility issues, be sure to contact an experienced fertility specialist. The team at Houston Fertility Center is here to help. You can reach our team by phone at (713) 862-6181.
