Can You Still Get Pregnant After Ovarian Cyst Removal Surgery?

An ovarian cyst is a condition that’s growing more prevalent among Singaporean women. While they’re often harmless, some may require removal surgery. This can happen if the growth is too large and painful or has a chance of developing into cancer. 

But you might be wondering: is it still possible to get pregnant after the procedure? The answer makes all the difference to women who still want to have children in the future. 

The truth is that there are several factors affecting your chances of conceiving. These range from the nature of the cyst to the removal method recommended by your gynae in Singapore. Let’s review these considerations in this guide today. 

What Type of Cyst Do You Have? 

The kind of ovarian cyst that’s getting removed can influence whether you’ll still be fertile or not.

A functional cyst (the most common form) typically doesn’t have an impact on your ability to conceive. Meanwhile, the cysts developed from PCOS don’t cause infertility themselves, but the hormone imbalance that comes with this health problem is what prevents ovulation. 

Endometriomas, or cysts caused by endometriosis, can damage ovarian tissue, lower egg quality, and cause blockages in the fallopian tubes that harm your chances of getting pregnant. 

The Possible Impact of the Procedure 

Surgeons will usually opt for the minimally invasive laparoscopy since this lets them remove the cysts while preserving your ovaries. This approach is your best bet to staying fertile.

However, larger or more complex cysts don’t have this luxury. They’ll likely require open surgery, which has a slightly higher chance of damaging or removing a small part of your ovaries. 

A good gynaecologist in Singapore will do what they can to minimise the damage. But you should also understand that the risk will always remain. 

Your Recovery Period Matters

Removal surgeries will typically take you between 2–12 weeks to fully recover from depending on whether you had a laparoscopy or open surgery. In any case, you should avoid any sexual intercourse or other attempts to conceive while you’re still healing. Rushing your body can make pregnancies difficult cause even more complications for your reproductive system. 

Number of Eggs Remaining 

Let’s say the removal surgery was a success. Now the question would lie in whether your ovarian reserves are adequate. This refers to the number of viable eggs left in your ovaries. 

It’s important to know if and how the cysts or the surgery have affected your eggs, so your gynae in Singapore may recommend testing to assess your fertility. 

How to Improve Your Chances of Having a Baby 

Not all is lost after you’ve had your ovarian cysts removed. You can take these steps to improve your capacity to conceive: 

Take Care of Yourself

Be sure to boost your overall well-being by having a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight. This can improve ovulation and egg quality particularly if your cysts were due to problems like PCOS. 

Discuss Your Treatment Options With Your Gynae

Don’t be ashamed to approach your gynaecologist for help — this is part of their job after all! They’ll help you explore different ways to address your fertility issues, such as through hormonal therapy, ovulation stimulants, or even fertilisation methods such as IVF. 

Related Infographic: 5 Things Every Woman Should Know About Ovarian Cysts

This Is Not the End of the Road

A cyst removal surgery can affect your fertility depending on the factors at play. But that doesn’t mean pregnancy is impossible for you. If you take the initiative to improve your health, you stand a better chance of having the child you’ve dreamed of. 

Singapore has many good gynaecologists ready to help you plan your way to parenthood, so go ahead and book an appointment when you’re ready. 

Related Video: 5 Things Every Woman Should Know About Ovarian Cysts