Ovarian Cysts Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Treatment

Ovarian cysts are typical growths that form on or within the ovaries. The most common types are harmless, although cysts can occasionally produce difficulties that may necessitate your doctor's care.

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Overview of Ovarian Cysts

An ovarian cyst is a tiny sac filled with fluid or semisolid material that develops on or inside one or both of your ovaries. There are several forms of ovarian cysts, the majority of which are painless and noncancerous. They are fairly frequent too, especially if you haven’t reached menopause yet.

Ovarian cysts do not usually produce symptoms. You won’t know you have one unless your healthcare professional discovers it during a pelvic exam or ultrasound.

Ovarian cysts may occasionally create difficulties. Regular pelvic exams, as well as discussing any symptoms you may be experiencing, can assist in solving any issues with an ovarian cyst.

Different Types of Ovarian Cysts and The Causes Behind Them

Ovarian cysts include dermoid cysts and endometriomas (commonly known as chocolate cysts). The most common variety is cysts filled with fluid that occur throughout the menstrual cycle. These include follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts.

Follicular cysts

A follicular sac houses an egg as it develops during the menstrual cycle. This sac is found in the ovaries. In most situations, the follicle bursts and releases an egg. If the follicle does not break open, the fluid within it can develop an ovarian cyst.

Corpus luteum cysts

The corpus luteum is a harmless tissue that develops in the ovary after an egg is discharged. Its function is to release the hormones required for pregnancy. However, it dissolves in a few days unless there is a pregnancy taking place. But, in rare circumstances, it may not dissolve and more fluid may accumulate inside it, forming a cyst.

Other cysts

Dermoid cysts: These sac-like growths on the ovaries may contain hair, fat, or other tissue.

Endometriomas: These are tissues that generally form inside the uterus but can develop outside and adhere to the ovaries. These are also known as chocolate cysts and can afflict persons who have severe endometriosis.

Cystadenomas: These growths can form on the outer surface of the ovaries.

Some women develop a disorder known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), in which the ovaries create numerous tiny cysts. PCOS can induce ovarian enlargement. If left untreated, polycystic ovaries can cause infertility.

Also Read: Ovarian Follicle And Its Role in Fertility

Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are frequently asymptomatic. However, symptoms may emerge if the cyst grows. Such symptoms might involve the following:

  • Abdominal bloating
  • Uncomfortable bowel movements
  • Pelvic pain before or during menstruation
  • Painful intercourse 
  • Lower back and thigh pain
  • Breast tenderness
  • Nausea and vomiting

Severe symptoms may indicate ovarian torsion or a burst cyst. This includes:

  • Severe pelvic discomfort
  • Fever
  • Disorientation
  • Rapid breathing

Both problems are uncommon but might have serious consequences if not handled promptly. 

Also Check: Can ovarian Cyst be the cause of your infertility?

When to Consult a Doctor for Ovarian Cysts?

Seek emergency medical attention if you have:

  • Sudden and severe abdominal or pelvic pain
  • Pain with fever and vomiting.
  • Signs of shock

These symptoms include cold, clammy skin, fast breathing, and lightheadedness or weakness. 

Potential Risks of Ovarian Cysts

Anyone who has ovaries can develop an ovarian cyst. Your odds may improve depending on:

Age: If you have not gone through menopause, you are more likely to develop ovarian cysts.

Pregnancy status: Cysts are more likely to develop and persist during pregnancy.

A history of ovarian cysts: If you’ve previously had an ovarian cyst, you’re more likely to get one again.

Current medical condition: You are more prone to develop an ovarian cyst if you have endometriosis, PCOS, or another hormonal disease.

Fertility medications: Taking ovulation-inducing drugs increases your chances of developing a cyst. 

How Ovarian Cysts Are Diagnosed?

The doctor treating you will first administer a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy as the source of your symptoms. Then, to identify an ovarian cyst, they may conduct the following tests:

A pelvic examination: Your doctor is going to examine the inside of your pelvis for lumps or changes.

Ultrasound: This imaging method employs sound waves to produce images of your pelvic organs. It can detect cysts on your ovaries, including their location and whether they are mostly fluid or solid.

Laparoscopy: This is a process carried out in an operating room. Your provider puts a camera through an incision (cut) in your belly to observe your reproductive organs and the pelvic cavity. If your doctor finds a cyst at this time, they can remove it. 

Also Read: Premature Ovarian Failure: Causes, and Treatment

Effective Treatments for Ovarian Cysts

infographics: ovarian cyst and treatment

Ovarian cyst treatment will be determined by your symptoms, the type of cyst, and the underlying cause. The cyst could be monitored over time, treated with medicine, or removed surgically. Treatment may also be determined by your age and whether or not you have gone through menopause.

Home remedies: Most ovarian cysts are benign and resolve on their own without treatment. These cysts produce few, if any, symptoms. Home remedies, such as heat therapy, might help alleviate any discomfort you may have.

Ovarian cyst medications: Your doctor may prescribe hormone-containing drugs (such as birth control pills) to prevent ovulation and subsequent cyst formation.

Surgery: Larger cysts, endometriomas, and malignant cysts are usually surgically removed. Options for surgery include:

  • Laparoscopy: It is a procedure in which a doctor makes numerous tiny incisions near your navel and inserts a small device into your belly to remove the cyst.
  • Laparotomy: During this treatment, a doctor will surgically remove the cyst through a wide incision in your belly. This is known as a laparotomy. If they suspect malignancy, they can do a biopsy.

Must Read: 5 Myths about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Conclusion 

The prognosis for premenopausal women with ovarian cysts is good. Most cysts dissipate after a few months. Premenopausal women and those with hormonal abnormalities, such as PCOS, can also develop recurring ovarian cysts. If left untreated, some cysts might reduce fertility.

To boost fertility, a doctor can remove or reduce the cyst. However, laparoscopic removal of certain types of cysts may have harmful effects on fertility.

Depending on the size and form of the cyst, a “wait and see” strategy may be acceptable for ovarian cysts. 

FAQs on Ovarian Cysts

How Are Ovarian Cysts Treated?

Ovarian cysts are frequently treated with observation, birth control medications, or surgery.

Can Ovarian Cysts Be Treated Without Surgery?

Yes, ovarian cysts may usually be cured without surgery. In fact, most ovarian cysts dissolve on their own after a few months.

Can Ovarian Cysts Affect Pregnancy?

Yes, ovarian cysts can interfere with pregnancy. Although the majority of them are harmless and do not cause complications, some cysts can create complications during pregnancy, such as rupture, twisting, or difficulties during birthing.

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