Can ovarian cysts cause fertility problems?

Some ovarian cysts may be associated with decreased fertility. It obviously depends on the type of cyst present.

Ovarian cysts that can affect fertility are:

• Endometriomas : These are cysts caused by endometriosis, a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. Endometriomas can be located more or less deeply in the ovary and can measure from a few centimeters up to 15. These ovarian cysts can be associated with fertility problems.
• Ovarian cysts resulting from PCOS ( polycystic ovary syndrome ). Polycystic ovarian syndrome ( PCOS ) is a condition characterized by many small cysts in the ovaries , irregular menstruation and high levels of some hormones. Depending on the severity of the syndrome, PCOS can cause significant fertility problems.

However, the following ovarian cysts do not affect a woman’s fertility unless they become very large:

• Functional cysts such as follicular cysts or luteal cysts are the most common type of ovarian cyst. Functional cysts can form during a normal menstrual cycle. Follicular cysts form when the follicle fails to burst due to a failure in the LH hormone to rise, or due to the non-release of the egg. They generally disappear on their own, without giving symptoms, in a few menstrual cycles. Luteal cysts, on the other hand, form in some cases after the release of the ovum, when the opening from which the egg is released closes, absorbing fluids. They generally disappear in a few weeks. However, there are cases in which the luteal cysts can grow even clearly up to 10 cm in diameter. In some cases they can bleed and cause pain. TheClomid  may  increase  the risk of these luteal cysts and should therefore be taken under supervision.
• Adenoma or Cystadenoma : are formed from the cells of the external surface of the ovary. They typically contain a water-like liquid or a thick, sticky gel. They can grow and cause pain.
• Dermoid cysts :    These may contain tissue such as skin, hair, or even teeth instead of the fluid that is typically present in a normal cyst.

All cysts that are diagnosed should be monitored by your doctor.