Fibroids & ovarian cysts
Heavy periods, pelvic pain or pressure, or something found on a scan — what it means, and whether it needs treating at all.
Gynaecology
Common, and often harmless
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the muscle of the womb; ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on an ovary. Both are common, many cause no symptoms at all, and a large number need nothing more than monitoring.
The first step is working out what you have, its size, and whether it explains your symptoms — with an examination and an ultrasound scan arranged at Sharada's Urban Clinic.
Symptoms that deserve a check
- Heavy or prolonged periods
- Pelvic pain, pressure or a feeling of fullness
- Pain during intercourse
- Needing to pass urine more often
- A fibroid or cyst found on a routine scan
- Difficulty conceiving
Dr. Deepthi Raidu
MBBS, MS (OBG) · Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
| Consults at | Sharada's Urban Clinic, Madhura Nagar |
| Hours | Open 24 hours, every day |
| Languages | English, Telugu, Hindi |
Seek urgent care for sudden severe pain
Sudden severe pain low in the abdomen — especially with fever, vomiting or feeling faint — can mean a cyst has twisted or burst. Call +91 72869 11911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Treatment options
Not every fibroid or cyst needs treatment
Watchful waiting
Small fibroids and simple cysts that cause no problems are often monitored with repeat scans rather than treated.
Medication
Medicines can control heavy bleeding and pain, and some cysts settle by themselves over a few cycles.
Keyhole surgery
When surgery is needed, Dr. Deepthi Raidu is fellowship-trained in laparoscopic surgery, which works through small incisions. Operations take place in hospital.
Questions
Fibroid and cyst questions
Do all fibroids need surgery?
No. Many fibroids never need treatment. Surgery is considered when they cause significant symptoms or affect fertility.
Can an ovarian cyst go away on its own?
Many functional cysts, which form as part of the menstrual cycle, settle within a few cycles. A repeat scan confirms whether one has.
Can fibroids affect pregnancy?
Depending on their size and position, some fibroids can affect fertility or pregnancy — something worth discussing if you are planning to conceive.
Related: Laparoscopic surgery · Irregular periods
Have a fibroid or cyst checked
Consultations at Sharada's Urban Clinic, Madhura Nagar · open 24 hours, every day