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Functional Cysts
Functional cysts are common in women who have not gone through menopause. One type of functional cyst, called a follicle cyst, happens when a woman does not ovulate. The cyst is filled with watery fluid. It usually goes away on its own. No treatment is needed.
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OVARIAN CYSTS
Another type of functional cyst, called a hemorrhagic (hem-or-AJ-ick) cyst, happens when an egg breaks free from the ovary to begin its journey to the fallopian tubes. Sometimes, after the egg breaks free, the tissue that is left closes and bleeds within itself. This blood-filled cyst usually goes away on its own. Treatment might not be needed. In some cases, this cyst may break and cause heavy bleeding in the belly.
Malignant Cysts
Malignant (cancerous) cysts are more common in women who have gone through menopause. Women who have gone through menopause usually do not get functional cysts. The danger with malignant ovarian cysts for all women is that they rarely cause any symptoms until they are very large.
OVARIAN CYSTS
These procedures can be done by laparoscopy (lap-ah-RAW-sko-pee). Two or 3 small cuts are made in the wall of the lower belly (abdomen). The doctor then uses a lighted scope and small instruments to remove the cyst. A laparotomy (lap-ah-RAW-toe-me) is more like standard surgery. A large cut is made in the abdomen, below the belly button. If cancer is suspected, the doctor may do a laparotomy to check other areas in the pelvis and abdomen for possible cancer.
This educational material was developed by a team of womens health care experts throughout UPMC, including Magee-Womens Hospital, one of the first National Centers of Excellence in Womens Health as designated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.
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This information is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely entirely on this information for your health care needs. Ask your own doctor or health care provider any specific medical questions that you have.