Ovarian Cyst: What You Need to Know

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An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms in or on the ovary. It is usually harmless and does not cause any symptoms. However, in some cases, it can grow large, rupture, or twist, leading to pain, bleeding, or other complications. Here are some facts about ovarian cysts and how they can affect your health.

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Types of ovarian cysts

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There are different types of ovarian cysts, depending on how they form and what they contain. The most common types are:

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• Follicular cysts: These occur when the follicle that holds the egg does not break open to release the egg during ovulation. The follicle then continues to grow and becomes a cyst. These cysts usually go away on their own within a few months.

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• Corpus luteum cysts: These occur when the follicle that releases the egg does not dissolve after ovulation. Instead, it seals off and fills with fluid. These cysts can sometimes produce hormones that affect your menstrual cycle. They usually disappear on their own within a few weeks.

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• Dermoid cysts: These are rare cysts that contain tissue such as hair, skin, or teeth. They are formed from cells that can develop into different types of tissue. They can grow large and cause pain or pressure.

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• Endometriomas: These are cysts that form from endometrial tissue, which normally lines the inside of the uterus. This tissue can grow outside the uterus and attach to the ovaries, forming cysts that are filled with blood. They can cause pain, especially during menstruation or sexual activity.

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• Cystadenomas: These are cysts that develop from the cells that cover the outer surface of the ovary. They can be filled with watery or mucous-like fluid. They can grow large and cause pain or pressure.

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Symptoms of ovarian cysts

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Most ovarian cysts do not cause any symptoms and are detected during a routine pelvic exam or an ultrasound scan. However, if the cyst grows large, ruptures, or twists, it can cause symptoms such as:

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• Pelvic pain: This can be dull or sharp, constant or intermittent, mild or severe. It can occur on one or both sides of the lower abdomen. It can also radiate to the back or thighs.

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• Abdominal bloating or swelling: This can make you feel full or heavy in your abdomen. It can also affect your appetite or digestion.

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• Nausea or vomiting: This can be caused by pressure on the stomach or intestines, or by hormonal changes.

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• Painful bowel movements: This can be caused by pressure on the rectum or by inflammation.

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• Painful sexual activity: This can be caused by pressure on the cervix or by inflammation.

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• Irregular menstrual cycles: This can be caused by hormonal changes due to some types of cysts.

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• Fever, rapid breathing, lightheadedness, or shock: These are signs of serious complications such as infection, bleeding, or torsion (twisting) of the ovary. They require immediate medical attention.

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Diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cysts

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To diagnose an ovarian cyst, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, medical history, and menstrual cycles. They will also perform a pelvic exam to feel for any abnormalities in your ovaries. They may also order some tests such as:

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• Ultrasound scan: This uses sound waves to create images of your ovaries and other pelvic organs. It can show the size, shape, location, and contents of the cyst.

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• Blood test: This can measure the levels of hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone, which can indicate if the cyst is functional or not. It can also measure the level of a protein called CA 125, which can be elevated in some cases of ovarian cancer.

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• Laparoscopy: This is a surgical procedure that involves inserting a thin tube with a camera and light (laparoscope) through a small incision in your abdomen. It allows your doctor to see your ovaries and other pelvic organs directly and remove any cysts if needed.

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• The treatment of an ovarian cyst depends on its type, size, symptoms, and potential complications. Some of the treatment options include:

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• Watchful waiting: This means monitoring the cyst with regular pelvic exams and ultrasound scans to see if it changes in size or disappears on its own. This is usually recommended for small, functional cysts that do not cause any symptoms.

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• Medication: This includes hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, patches, injections, or implants. They can prevent ovulation and reduce the chances of developing new cysts. They can also help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce pain.

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• Surgery: This involves removing the cyst or the entire ovary through a laparoscopy or a laparotomy (a larger incision in your abdomen). This is usually recommended for large, persistent, or symptomatic cysts, or for cysts that are suspected to be cancerous.

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Complications of ovarian cysts

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Most ovarian cysts are benign and do not cause any serious problems. However, some complications can occur, such as:

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• Rupture: This means the cyst breaks open and spills its contents into the pelvic cavity. This can cause severe pain, bleeding, and infection. It can also increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy (when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus).

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• Torsion: This means the cyst or the ovary twists around its blood supply, cutting off the blood flow. This can cause severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. It can also damage the ovary and affect your fertility.

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• Cancer: This means the cyst is malignant and grows uncontrollably. 

This can cause symptoms such as abdominal swelling, weight loss, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and abnormal vaginal bleeding. It can also spread to other organs and tissues.

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Prevention of ovarian cysts

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There is no sure way to prevent ovarian cysts, as they are often related to your natural hormonal fluctuations. However, some steps that may help reduce your risk include:

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Using hormonal contraceptives: These can prevent ovulation and reduce the chances of developing functional cysts. They can also help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce pain.

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Managing your weight: Being overweight or obese can affect your hormone levels and increase your risk of developing ovarian cysts. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help balance your hormones and improve your overall health.

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Treating underlying conditions: Some conditions such as endometriosis, PCOS, or pelvic infections can increase your risk of developing ovarian cysts. Treating these conditions with medication or surgery can help prevent or reduce the formation of cysts.

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Having regular pelvic exams: These can help detect any abnormalities in your ovaries or other pelvic organs early. Early detection and treatment can prevent complications and improve your prognosis.

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Conclusion

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Ovarian cysts are common and usually harmless. They often do not cause any symptoms and go away on their own. However, in some cases, they can grow large, rupture, or twist, causing pain, bleeding, or other complications. They can also be a sign of an underlying condition or cancer. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of ovarian cysts and seek medical attention if you experience any of them. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most ovarian cysts can be managed effectively and safely.

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Sources

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[1] Ovarian Cysts - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cysts/symptoms-causes/syc-20353405

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[2] Ovarian Cyst: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and More - Healthline

https://www.healthline.com/health/ovarian-cysts

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[3] What is Ovarian cysts and their possible symptoms, causes, risks and prevention methods? - MSN

https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/condition/Ovarian-cysts/hp-Ovarian-cysts?source=conditioncdx