He or she may perform a non-invasive ultrasound test to look at the cyst. If a fluid-filled cyst is found that does not suggest cancer, the first course of action may be to wait and see if it disappears. Your doctor may prescribe a short course of birth control pills. For a cyst that doesn't go away, surgery may be necessary. Surgery using a laparoscope is less invasive and involves making several small incisions in the abdomen through which a slender optical instrument is inserted.
Doctors can then see the inside of the abdominal cavity on a monitor.
In these cases, traditional surgery is best, to avoid puncturing the cyst and possibly spreading cancer cells, Van Voorhis adds. Although uncommon, harmless cysts can also rupture and cause bleeding, making surgery necessary. Remember, just because a cyst is found during a pelvic exam, it doesn't automatically mean you will need surgery. If you have pelvic pain or questions about ovarian cysts, talk to your physician. All rights reserved.