Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs located inside an ovary or on its surface. Ovarian cysts are common and in most cases, cause little or no discomfort. Most cysts go away on their own without treatment however, some ovarian cysts twist and rupture, causing serious symptoms. Recognising the symptoms and having regular pelvic exams can help with the early detection of ovarian cysts.
Ovarian Cyst Symptoms
Usually, smaller ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and go away on their own. However, large ovarian cysts can cause:
Bowel problems (diarrhea and constipation)
Pain during sexual intercourse
Nausea and vomiting
Menstrual irregularities
Abdominal fullness and bloating
Mild or severe pain in the lower abdomen
Warning Ovarian Cyst Symptoms that Needs Immediate Attention:
Sudden and severe abdominal pain
Pain in the abdomen accompanied with fever
Pain in the abdomen with vomiting
Ovarian Cyst Causes
Functional Cyst Causes
Most ovarian cysts form due to hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle and are referred to as functional cysts. Every month, the ovaries grow a cyst-like structure called follicles during ovulation. These follicles produce hormones progesterone and estrogen.
During ovulation, the follicles rupture to release an egg into the fallopian tube. Sometimes, a follicle does not release an egg during ovulation and continues to grow to form functional cysts. There are two major types of functional cysts:
Follicular cysts: These cysts form when the follicle does not rupture and continues to grow.
Corpus luteum cyst: Once a follicle releases an egg, it shrinks and starts producing progesterone and estrogen. This follicle is now referred to as corpus luteum. Sometimes, the opening where the egg comes from is blocked and fluid builds up inside the corpus luteum, causing a cyst.
Non-functional Cysts Causes
Non-functional cysts are not related to hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle and indicate the presence of a disease.
Ovarian Cyst Diagnosis
Ovarian cysts might be detected during a routine checkup or during a pelvic examination. A doctor might also recommend tests to determine the type of cyst depending on various factors including:
Ovarian Cyst Treatment
The treatment of ovarian cysts depends on its size and type. Usually, functional cysts do not need treatment. This is because it disappears after some time. However, if the cyst is significant in size or recurring, a doctor might suggest surgery as per the size of the ovarian cyst. Non-functional cysts on the other hand, always need treatment. Ovarian cyst treatment options may include:
Medications
A doctor may recommend medications containing hormones such as birth control pills to stop ovulation and prevent the formation of future cysts.
Surgery
If an ovarian cyst is growing in size and causing symptoms, surgery may be needed to remove it. The type of surgery varies based on the size of the cyst and its appearance during an ultrasound. Surgery for ovarian cysts include:
Laparoscopic surgery: During laparoscopic surgery, a gynaecologist makes a small incision in the abdominal wall to insert a camera. This allows the gynaecologist to examine the reproductive organs and pelvic cavity. The ovarian cyst is then removed through additional tiny incisions.
Laparotomy: This type of surgery is performed if the ovarian cyst is large or cancerous in nature.
Recovery After Ovarian Cysts Treatment
In some cases, follow-up imaging scans ensure that the cyst has not grown further. Be alert of changes in the monthly cycle and note symptoms of unusual menstrual cycles. Consult a gynaecologist about changes that concern you.
FAQs
What causes ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts are caused by changes in the menstrual cycle or by drugs that support ovulation. For example, women suffering from endometriosis develop an ovarian cyst called endometrioma.
What is the best treatment for ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts that are large or causing symptoms typically require surgical removal. Surgery is also recommended if a gynaecologist suspects the ovarian cysts may be cancerous or have the potential to become cancerous.
What does an ovarian cyst pain feel like?
An ovarian cyst usually only causes symptoms if it is significant in size, ruptures or twists and blocks the supply of blood to the ovaries. In these cases, pelvic pain can range from dull to a sudden and severe pain.
Do ovarian cysts go away?
Functional ovarian cysts often do not require treatment. These ovarian cysts often go away on their own within 8 to 12 weeks. In case of frequent ovarian cysts, a gynaecologist may prescribe oral contraceptives (birth control pills). These hormonal contraceptives help reduce the risk of cysts.
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