Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian-Cysts

What Are Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid- or tissue-filled sacs that form within or on the surface of the ovaries.
They are common in women of reproductive age and usually benign, often disappearing on their own.
However, some cysts may cause pain, hormonal imbalance, menstrual irregularities, or fertility problems, requiring medical attention.

At Saga Clinic in Tirana, Dr. Eser Agar provides comprehensive evaluation, ultrasound monitoring, and personalized management of ovarian cysts using modern diagnostic and surgical techniques.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

1. Functional Cysts

These are the most common and typically harmless cysts related to the menstrual cycle.

  • Follicular cyst: Forms when an egg is not released; usually resolves spontaneously.
  • Corpus luteum cyst: Occurs after ovulation; may cause delayed menstruation or mild pain.

2. Pathological Cysts

Develop from abnormal cell growth and may require treatment.

  • Endometrioma (Chocolate cyst): Caused by endometriosis; contains old blood.
  • Dermoid cyst (Mature teratoma): Contains fat, hair, or tissue; benign but may enlarge.
  • Cystadenoma: Fluid- or mucous-filled cyst; may grow large and distort the ovary.
  • Polycystic ovaries: Multiple small follicles due to hormonal imbalance (PCOS).

Common Symptoms

  • Pelvic or lower abdominal pain (dull or sharp)
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Abdominal bloating or pressure
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Difficulty conceiving
  • Sudden severe pain due to cyst rupture or ovarian torsion (medical emergency)

Some cysts remain silent and are discovered incidentally during routine ultrasound.

Causes and Risk Factors

  • Hormonal imbalance and anovulation
  • Use of fertility medications (e.g., clomiphene)
  • Endometriosis
  • Pregnancy-related hormonal changes
  • Pelvic infections spreading to the ovaries
  • Genetic predisposition

Diagnostic Approach at Saga Clinic

1. Transvaginal and Abdominal Ultrasound

First-line imaging to determine cyst size, structure, and nature (simple, complex, or solid).
Doppler imaging is used to assess blood flow and detect malignancy risk.

2. Hormonal Evaluation

Includes estradiol, FSH, LH, progesterone, and testosterone levels.

3. Tumor Markers (if indicated)

CA-125, HE4, AFP, CA 15-3, CEA, AFP, CA 19-9, hCG, and LDH may be checked in suspicious or persistent cysts.

4. MRI or CT Scan

Used for complex cysts or when malignancy is suspected.

5. Diagnostic Laparoscopy

Allows direct visualization and possible removal of cysts under general anesthesia.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on cyst type, size, symptoms, and patient’s fertility goals.

1. Observation and Medical Management

  • Small, functional cysts are often monitored with serial ultrasounds.
  • Hormonal therapy (e.g., oral contraceptives) can prevent recurrence.
  • Pain management and supportive therapy for mild symptoms.

2. Surgical Treatment

Indicated for large (>5 cm), persistent, complex, or symptomatic cysts.

Laparoscopic Cystectomy (Minimally Invasive)

  • Performed through small incisions using a camera and instruments.
  • The cyst is removed while preserving the healthy ovarian tissue.
  • Minimal pain, faster recovery, and fertility preservation.

Laparotomy (Open Surgery)

  • Reserved for large or suspicious cysts.
  • Complete cyst removal and biopsy are performed under anesthesia.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

  • Mild abdominal discomfort for 1–2 days after laparoscopy.
  • Normal activities can resume within 3–5 days.
  • Avoid intercourse and heavy exercise for 1 week.
  • Follow-up ultrasound in 4–6 weeks to assess healing and recurrence.

Fertility and Ovarian Preservation

At Saga Clinic, Dr. Eser Agar prioritizes ovarian-sparing surgery to maintain fertility.
In reproductive-age women, healthy ovarian tissue is carefully preserved to ensure continued hormonal and reproductive function.

Women planning pregnancy after surgery are guided through timed conception or assisted reproductive options if needed.

The Saga Clinic Approach

Saga Clinic Tirana integrates advanced diagnostic imaging, hormonal analysis, and minimally invasive techniques to manage all forms of ovarian cysts.
Dr. Eser Agar combines clinical precision with patient-centered care to provide safe, effective, and fertility-preserving outcomes.

Core principles:

  • Early diagnosis and prevention of complications
  • Minimal invasiveness and fast recovery
  • Personalized treatment planning
  • Continuous follow-up and hormonal balance restoration

Advantages for Patients

  • Accurate diagnosis using advanced ultrasound and Doppler imaging
  • Minimally invasive laparoscopic cyst removal
  • Fertility-preserving surgical approach
  • Short recovery and minimal postoperative pain
  • Comprehensive follow-up and hormonal support

Appointments and Contact

To schedule an appointment for ovarian cyst evaluation or treatment, contact Saga Clinic Tirana online or via WhatsApp.
Dr. Eser Agar and his specialized team provide full-spectrum diagnostic and surgical care to ensure optimal ovarian and reproductive health.

For appointment requests or medical inquiries, please contact us using the options below.

📞 Clinic Phone (Office Hours)
+355 69 836 1565
Available Monday–Saturday, 09:00–16:00.

💬 WhatsApp (Outside Office Hours)
+355 69 362 0838
Available outside office hours via WhatsApp Message only.