Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs found within or on the surface of the ovary. Females possess two ovaries and each ovary is found on either side of the uterus where the eggs mature and develop. Ovarian cysts can become a cause for your infertility so let’s find out all there is to know about them.
Causes of ovarian cysts
Ovulation is the primary cause of ovarian cysts. Other factors include:
Abnormal cell reproduction: Unusual reproduction of cells can lead to the formation of cysts such as dermoids and cystadenomas.
Endometriosis: These cysts frequently occur on the ovary in the late stages of endometriosis.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): Serious pelvic infections can extend to the ovaries, resulting in cysts.
Cysts that cause infertility
One of the most frequently asked questions fertility specialists receive is if ovarian cysts have a negative impact on fertility? It varies on the cyst kind. The forms of ovarian cysts that affect fertility are:
Endometriomas: These are endometrial cysts. Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that normally lines the uterus grows in other locations, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestine, or bladder. These huge cysts can harm the ovaries, produce adhesions, and block the fallopian tubes, resulting in reproductive issues.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a disorder in which the ovaries release a large quantity of androgens, which are male hormones that are normally seen in women in tiny amounts. The term polycystic ovarian syndrome refers to the multiple tiny cysts (fluid-filled sacs) that grow in the ovaries, resulting in hormonal abnormalities and infertility.
Symptoms of ovarian cysts
Some tiny cysts show no symptoms. In many circumstances, you may not be aware that you might have a cyst. But the larger cysts could result in:
- Pain in the pelvis or a mild backache
- A sensation of fullness (bloating) in your lower abdomen that may be more noticeable on a particular side of your body
- Dyspareunia, or pain during intercourse
- Painful periods
Diagnosis of ovarian cysts
Imaging tests: The most common imaging test is the pelvic or "transvaginal" ultrasound. This requires inserting an instrument into the vagina to obtain images of your ovary and surrounding area. This gives data regarding the cyst's shape, position, size, and other relevant features.
Computed tomography (CT): CT scan or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan is also used to detect cysts. These procedures are however less expected.
Blood tests: If imaging tests reveal that you've got an ovarian cyst, your doctor may order blood tests to identify the nature of the cyst.
Treatments for ovarian cysts and pregnancy
The nature and extent of your cyst, as well as your age, determine the course of treatment. Additionally, it depends on the symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor may suggest:
Waiting: In many circumstances, you may wait a few months before being reexamined to determine if the cyst has gotten better.
Medicine: Hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, prevent you from ovulating. This may prevent you from developing further ovarian cysts. However, birth control tablets will not decrease an existing cyst.
Surgery: Your doctor may recommend that you have a cyst removed if it is large, does not appear to be functional, is expanding, or gives you pain.
If your ovarian cyst is causing you difficulties in conceiving a baby, then there is always the option of taking the help of reproductive and ART treatments like IVF, which will ensure that you will be able to get pregnant successfully and experience the joy of parenthood without facing any extreme complications.
