More Common Than You Think
Ovarian cysts can either be a normal part of ovulation or reduce the chances for conception. Most ovulating women produce at least one ovarian cyst every month after the egg breaks out of the ovarian follicle. Most ovarian cysts won’t cause fertility problems. Some types of cysts, however, can make getting pregnant more difficult.
1. Some ovarian cysts can compromise fertility
Some ovarian cysts are a result of a more severe condition that affects fertility. For example, endometriomas are cysts formed due to endometriosis, a condition where uterine tissue forms outside the uterus. Endometriomas are typically filled with blood and lead to painful periods and fewer eggs in the ovarian tissue.
Ovarian cysts from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are small in size. PCOS cysts can cause irregular periods and affect hormone levels. PCOS is associated with trouble ovulating, which can cause an increase in male hormones known as androgens. An increase in male hormones and lack of ovulation can significantly affect fertility.
2. Ovarian cyst treatment can affect fertility
Certain ovarian cysts can be treated with hormonal birth control or surgery, for more severe cases. Hormonal birth control doesn’t typically have a lasting effect on fertility. Surgery for endometriosis, for example, can damage ovarian tissue and lead to other complications that affect healthy eggs.
3. The majority of ovarian cysts don’t affect fertility
Most ovarian cysts don’t have a negative effect on fertility. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs in the human body. Functional cysts, also known as follicular cysts, are cysts that don’t break open, allowing the cyst to grow bigger. Corpus luteum cysts form after ovulation when the egg follicle reseals instead of shrinking like normal. Both cysts can disappear without treatment in a few months.
Cystadenomas are ovarian cysts that form on the surface of the ovaries. Dermoid cysts can include a variety of tissues including skin, teeth, or hair instead of fluid. Dermoid cysts may require some treatment, but the treatments don’t usually affect fertility.
Ovarian cysts can be overcome
While most ovarian cysts won’t cause any fertility problems, a few cysts may inadvertently lower a person’s chances for conception. There are a variety of treatment options for all ovarian cyst cases that can make starting a family possible. Women that are diagnosed with ovarian cysts and are worried about fertility issues can speak with a physician to discuss treatment options.