Ovarian cyst Kuching Gynae Kuching古晋妇产科 古晋卵巢

Cervical Smear

What is a Cervical Smear (Pap Smear)?

A cervical smear test, also known as a Pap smear or Pap test, is a simple procedure used to check for abnormal cells in the cervix (the lower part of the womb). It is not a test for cancer, but it can help prevent cervical cancer by detecting changes early, before they become serious.

Why is it Important?

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. Regular screening:

• Detects early cell changes

• Helps treat issues before they turn into cancer

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• PCOS is a hormonal disorder, not a type of ovarian cyst.

• It causes many small follicles (not true cysts) to develop on the ovaries because they don’t mature properly.

• This hormonal imbalance disrupts ovulation and leads to symptoms like irregular periods, difficulty getting pregnant, weight gain, and excess hair growth.

• Although these immature follicles appear as “cysts” on ultrasound, they are different from typical ovarian cysts like functional or benign cysts.

Note: PCOS is Not a True Ovarian Cyst

Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms?

• No symptoms (very common)

• Pelvic pain (sharp or dull)

• Bloating or fullness in the abdomen

• Pain during intercourse

• Irregular or missed periods

• Lower back or thigh pain

• Difficulty emptying bladder or frequent urination

What are the consequences of doing nothing?

In many cases, small simple / functional cyst go away on their own. However, some of the cyst can:

• Grow bigger

• Rupture and cause bleeding or severe pain

• Twisted or torsion

• May be cancerous or become cancer

Always consult or follow up with your doctor if a cyst is found or symptoms occur.

When should I see a doctor?

• Severe pelvic pain or sudden sharp pain

• Bloating or fullness that doesn’t improve

• Unexplained changes in your menstrual cycle

• If you suspect a cyst has ruptured (pain, fever, vomiting)

Can I prevent ovarian cyst formation?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cyst, but you can lower the risk by:

• Taking hormonal birth control (to prevent ovulation related cysts)

• Managing conditions like endometriosis

Can a blood test detect ovarian cyst?

No, a blood test cannot directly detect a cyst. The most common and effective method for detecting ovarian cysts is an ultrasound scan.

However, some blood tests can assist in further evaluation:

• Ca 125: A tumor marker that may be elevated in ovarian cancer but can also be raised in certain benign conditions, such as endometriosis.

• Hormone level: may be abnormal in hormone producing cyst.

What tests are required if I have an ovarian cyst?

The evaluation may include, but is not limited to, the following tests:

• Pelvic examination

• Ultrasound scan

• Blood test

• CT scan or MRI

Can ovarian cysts affect fertility?

• Most cysts do not affect fertility

• Some, like endometriomas or PCOS, can make it harder to get pregnant

• A doctor can guide treatment if you're trying to conceive

How are ovarian cysts treated?

Treatment depends on each person’s situation and should be decided with a doctor.

• Watch and wait: Most functional cysts go away by themselves.

• Birth control pills: Helps prevent cysts that occur as part of the ovulation cycle. Not all types of cysts are suitable for this treatment.

• Surgery: Needed if the cyst is big, painful, or might be cancer.

3. Malignant Non-Functional Cysts (Cancer)

• Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

  • Most common type of ovarian cancer

  • Arises from the surface lining of the ovary

  • Often detected at a later stage

• Germ Cell Tumors (some may not be cancer)

  • Examples: Dysgerminoma, Yolk sac tumor, Immature teratoma

  • Arises from the egg-producing cells

  • More common in teens and young women

  • Often treatable with surgery and chemotherapy

• Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors (some may not be cancer)

  • Arise from the tissue that produce hormones

  • May secrete hormones (estrogen or testosterone) causing hormone related symptoms (early puberty, extra hair growth or post menopausal bleeding)

  • Example: Granulosa cell tumor, Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer

Contact us

Our clinics runs on appointment basis. Feel free to call us to set up an appointment. We welcome walk-in patients on weekdays, but please be aware that there may be a wait time.

Phone:

+60 82-365 777 (ext: 266)

+6012 594 9938 (WhatsApp only)

Email:

drngysclinic@gmail.com

Clinic hours:

Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:30PM

Saturday : 9:00 AM - 12:30PM (appointment & alternate saturday only)

Sunday : close

Address:

Dr Ng Ying Shan,

KPJ Kuching Specialist Hospital,

Lot 18807, Block 11 Muara Tebas Land District, Jalan Stutong,

93350 Kuching, Sarawak