An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on a woman’s ovary. They are mostly harmless, and often disappear on their own without treatment in a few months. Ovarian cysts are a common occurrence, especially in women who still have periods.
Most ovarian cysts are what’s known as functional cysts – they occur as part of the menstrual cycle and are usually harmless and short-lived. This type can form either during ovulation or immediately after it.
However, there can be more serious types like cystadenomas (non-cancerous growths that can become large and cause discomfort), dermoid cysts (which consist of different types of cells and can contain hair or skin), and endometriomas (cysts caused by endometriosis).
These cysts can cause symptoms like abdominal bloating or swelling, painful bowel movements, pelvic pain, and painful intercourse. In some cases, they don’t show any symptoms at all. If a cyst ruptures or causes twisting of the ovary, it can cause severe pelvic pain and require immediate medical attention.
The exact cause of ovarian cysts can vary depending on the type. While functional cysts are related to the menstrual cycle, other cysts can be caused by conditions such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Your doctor can detect an ovarian cyst during a regular pelvic examination or through an ultrasound. If you have a cyst, your doctor will typically observe it over time to see whether it disappears, changes, or requires treatment. If necessary, surgical procedures can be performed to remove the cysts.
Causes of Ovarian cyst
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside an ovary. The exact cause of most ovarian cysts isn’t known, but they are commonly associated with women’s menstrual cycles and other natural processes in the body. Here are some potential causes:
1. Monthly Menstrual Cycle: The most common type of ovarian cyst is a functional cyst, which often forms during the menstrual cycle.
a) Follicle cyst. In a normal cycle, an egg grows inside a tiny sac called a follicle. If the follicle doesn’t break open to release the egg, the fluid inside the follicle can form a cyst on the ovary.
b) Corpus luteum cyst. Once the follicle breaks open and releases the egg, the empty follicle sac shrinks into a mass of cells called corpus luteum. If the corpus luteum fills with fluid or blood, it becomes a corpus luteum cyst.
2. Endometriosis: Endometriomas are a type of ovarian cyst that can form in women who have endometriosis. These cysts can develop when endometrial tissue (the tissue that lines the uterus) grows onto the ovaries.
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This is a condition that causes many small cysts to form on the ovaries due to an imbalance in the woman’s hormones.
4. Hormonal Imbalance: Functional cysts may also occur due to hormonal problems or drugs used to help you ovulate.
5. Pregnancy: Sometimes the cyst that forms when you ovulate stays on your ovary throughout your pregnancy.
6. Severe pelvic infection: If the infection spreads to the ovaries, it can cause cysts.
Certain factors may increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cysts, such as a history of previous ovarian cysts, irregular menstrual cycles, obesity, infertility, early menstruation (before age 11), and hypothyroidism. It’s important for women to have regular doctor exams, as many ovarian cysts don’t cause symptoms.
Risk Factors of Ovarian cyst
The risk factors for ovarian cysts can be many and vary from person to person. However, some of the most common risk factors include:
1. Hormonal Problems: Hormonal imbalances can lead to the formation of ovarian cysts. This can include conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in which numerous small cysts form on the ovaries.
2. Age: Ovarian cysts can occur at any age but are more common in women of childbearing years. Postmenopausal women who develop ovarian cysts have a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
3. Endometriosis: This condition can contribute to the development of a type of ovarian cyst known as an endometrioma or a chocolate cyst.
4. Pregnancy: Sometimes, the cyst that forms during ovulation remains on the ovary throughout pregnancy.
5. Pelvic Infection: If a pelvic infection spreads to the ovaries, it can lead to the formation of cysts.
6. Previous ovarian cysts: Once you’ve had one, you are likely to develop more.
7. Obesity: Overweight or obese women have a slightly higher risk of developing ovarian cysts.
8. Infertility treatment: Some drugs used to induce ovulation can lead to the development of large ovarian cysts, known as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
9. Family history: Having a close relative with a history of ovarian cysts or PCOS can increase a woman’s risk of developing them herself.
Remember that having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean you will develop a condition. Talk to your healthcare provider about your personal risk.
Also, keep in mind that many ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms, are benign (non-cancerous), and resolve on their own. However, larger cysts can cause symptoms such as pain and bloating. If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian cyst
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets within or on the surface of an ovary. Many women have ovarian cysts at some time during their lives. Most ovarian cysts present little or no discomfort and are harmless. The majority of ovarian cysts disappear without treatment within a few months.
However, certain types of ovarian cysts, or those that have ruptured, can produce serious symptoms. Here are the signs and symptoms that someone might experience if they have an ovarian cyst:
1. Pelvic pain: This could be sharp or dull, and it might come and go. If the cyst is large, a woman might feel this pain continuously.
2. Bloating: Feeling full or heavy in the abdomen is a common symptom.
3. Feeling a palpable lump in the lower abdomen: This might happen if the cyst is particularly large.
4. Unexplained weight gain: Though this isn’t a common symptom, some women do report gaining weight when they have an ovarian cyst.
5. Changes in menstrual patterns: Like unpredictable menstrual cycles, extreme pain during your period, or abnormal bleeding.
6. Painful intercourse: Some women experience pain during sex, particularly with deep penetration.
7. Changes in bowel movements or urinary habits, such as needing to urinate more frequently. This can occur if the cyst pushes against the bladder or bowel.
8. Nausea or vomiting: This can occur if the ovarian cyst is twisting or rupturing.
9. Feeling of faintness or dizziness, particularly if the cyst ruptures.
As these symptoms can also be associated with other conditions, it’s crucial to get a diagnosis from a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing one or several of them. In some cases, cysts can also cause complications like twisting of an ovary (ovarian torsion) which needs immediate medical attention.
Diagnosis Ovarian cyst
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac or pocket that develops within or on the surface of an ovary. Women have two ovaries — each about the size and shape of an almond — on each side of the uterus.
Most ovarian cysts present little or no discomfort and are harmless. The majority disappears without treatment within a few months. However, ovarian cysts — especially those that have ruptured — can cause serious symptoms such as pelvic pain, bloating, feeling full quickly, difficulty eating, frequent urination, among others.
There are various types of ovarian cysts, such as follicular cysts, corpus luteum cysts, dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, and endometriomas. While many cysts are benign (non-cancerous), some could be cancerous, especially in women who have gone through menopause.
The exact cause of ovarian cysts depends on the type of cyst. Some cysts can result from the follicles that grow each month during a woman’s menstrual cycle, while others may be caused by endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
The diagnosis of an ovarian cyst is usually done with a combination of physical exams, pelvic ultrasounds, pregnancy tests (to rule out ectopic pregnancy in cases of severe ovarian pain), CA-125 blood tests (to screen for ovarian cancer in postmenopausal women), and sometimes laparoscopy.
Any persistent or severe symptoms associated with ovarian cysts should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to determine the necessary treatment plan, which can range from watchful waiting to surgery.
Treatment of Ovarian cyst
Treatment of an ovarian cyst depends on the size of the cyst, whether it is causing symptoms, and whether it is suspected to be cancerous.
1. Watchful Waiting: If the cyst is small, not causing any symptoms, and appears to be filled with fluid (a functional cyst), doctors often choose a “watchful waiting” approach. Over a period of one to three months, a series of ultrasounds are done to check if the cyst has disappeared or decreased in size.
2. Medication: Birth control pills might be recommended by your doctor. They won’t shrink an existing cyst, but they can prevent new cysts from forming. Hormonal birth control methods help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce the development of ovarian cysts.
3. Surgery: If the cyst is large, causing symptoms, or suspected to be cancerous, surgery might be recommended. The type of surgery depends on several factors.
a. Laparoscopy: This is used for smaller cysts; it’s minimally invasive and recovery time is faster.
b. Laparotomy: For larger cysts or when cancer is suspected, a more invasive surgery might be performed.
If the cyst is cancerous, treatment will be more complex and will likely involve chemotherapy and possibly radiation treatment in addition to surgery. This would be managed by a team that specializes in gynecologic cancers.
Remember, it’s very important to have regular doctor visits and communicate any symptoms you may have. Treatment can be much more effective if the cyst is found early.
Medications commonly used for Ovarian cyst
Ovarian cysts aren’t typically treated with medication unless they are caused by a hormonal imbalance or they are causing significant discomfort or pain. Depending on the type and severity of the ovarian cysts, different types of medications might be used:
1. Hormonal contraceptives: Doctors might recommend birth control pills or other hormonal contraceptives to help regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent the development of follicles that can turn into cysts. While they do not reduce the size of existing cysts, they help to prevent new ones from forming.
2. Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce the discomfort associated with ovarian cysts. For more severe pain, a doctor might prescribe a stronger, prescription-strength pain reliever.
3. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists: These medications are used to induce a pseudo-menopause state. It results in a decrease in estrogen production, which can decrease the size of the ovarian cyst. These are typically used for functional cysts or cysts related to conditions such as endometriosis.
4. Metformin: This medication can lower insulin levels and is often used to treat poly-cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition characterized by the growth of many small cysts in the ovaries.
Remember, the choice of medication depends on the type of cyst, the patient’s overall health condition, and the professional judgement of the healthcare provider. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any medication.
Prevention of Ovarian cyst
Preventing ovarian cysts isn’t always possible, but there are actions you can take to lower your risk:
1. Regular check-ups: Routine gynecologic examinations can help detect ovarian cysts early. Remember, the earlier a cyst is found, the quicker it can be addressed.
2. Hormonal birth control: Birth control pills or devices can help prevent new cysts from forming, especially in women who frequently develop cysts. Talk to your doctor about this as an option.
3. Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is one of the risk factors for ovarian cysts. Eating a wholesome diet and regularly exercising can help maintain a healthy weight.
4. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol: Both can cause hormonal imbalances, which can lead to ovarian cysts.
5. Manage stress: Chronic stress can throw off your menstrual cycle, which can lead to the development of cysts. Utilize stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or any other activity that you find relaxing.
6. Avoid smoking: This is good overall health advice, but smoking has been linked to an increased risk of many conditions, including ovarian cysts.
7. Stay aware of your body: Pay attention to your body’s rhythms and cycles, such as your menstrual cycle. Changes to your cycle could signal a potential problem, like an ovarian cyst.
Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider when it comes to your health and/necessary steps for prevention.
FAQ’s about Ovarian cyst
1. What is an Ovarian Cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac or pocket that develops within or on the surface of an ovary. It’s a common occurrence and usually harmless.
2. What are the symptoms of an Ovarian Cyst?
Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they might include bloating, discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen, painful intercourse, irregular periods or heavier than normal bleeding during periods, and a frequent need to urinate.
3. What causes Ovarian Cysts?
Most ovarian cysts develop as a result of the normal functioning of your menstrual cycle (functional cysts). Other types can be due to certain health conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or from the rapid growth of cells, either noncancerous (benign) or cancerous.
4. What are the different types of Ovarian Cysts?
There are several types which include: follicular cysts, corpus luteum cysts, dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, and endometriomas.
5. How are Ovarian Cysts diagnosed?
Ovarian cysts are often diagnosed during a pelvic exam. If an ovarian cyst is suspected, further testing might include an ultrasound, hormonal blood tests, or possibly a CT or MRI scan.
6. What are the possible complications of Ovarian Cysts?
Although most ovarian cysts are benign, sometimes they can cause serious complications, such as rupture, ovarian torsion (where the ovary is twisted), or even cancer in rare cases.
7. What is the treatment for Ovarian Cysts?
Treatment depends on the size, type, and symptoms of the cyst. Small, asymptomatic cysts may just be monitored with no immediate treatment required. Painful cysts might be managed with pain relievers, hormonal birth control pills, or they might require surgical removal.
8. Can Ovarian Cysts be prevented?
There’s no certain way to prevent ovarian cysts, but regular pelvic exams can detect cysts early. Hormonal birth control methods may also help prevent the formation of new cysts.
9. Do Ovarian Cysts affect fertility?
In many cases, ovarian cysts do not affect a woman’s ability to conceive. However, certain conditions, such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, can make it more difficult to become pregnant.
10. Are Ovarian Cysts cancerous?
Most ovarian cysts are benign and not cancerous. However, a small number of ovarian cysts might be malignant (cancerous). The risk of an ovarian cyst being cancerous is higher in postmenopausal women.
Useful links
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets in an ovary or on its surface. Women have two ovaries — each about the size and shape of an almond — on each side of the uterus. Many women have ovarian cysts at some time. Most ovarian cysts present little or no discomfort and are harmless.
Following is the list of online resources, research papers, and journals to understand deeper about ovarian cysts:
Please visit these links to get additional information. Always consult with healthcare professionals for an accurate diagnosis. This information serves as a guide and should be used for research purposes.
Complications of Ovarian cyst
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on an ovary. They are common and generally harmless, often disappearing on their own without treatment. However, complications can arise in some cases:
1. Ruptured cyst: A cyst can grow too large and rupture, which can cause severe pain and internal bleeding. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.
2. Torsion: This is when a large cyst causes an ovary to twist or rotate around its supporting tissues. This can cause severe abdominal pain and might also interfere with the ovary’s blood supply, which can lead to the death of ovarian tissue, a serious condition needing immediate treatment.
3. Malignancy: Some ovarian cysts can be cancerous, though this is rare. Cancer is more likely to occur in post-menopausal women, but it can happen at any age.
4. Infertility: Some types of ovarian cysts associated with an underlying condition, like polycystic ovary syndrome or endometriosis, can affect a woman’s fertility.
5. Pain: Some cysts might cause a dull or sharp ache in the lower abdomen on the side of the cyst. This pain may be constant or intermittent.
6. Hormone Imbalance: Certain types of cysts, like those associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), can result in significant hormonal imbalances, leading to irregular periods, excessive body hair, and problems with weight and acne.
Keep in mind that many ovarian cysts do not cause any symptoms and are often discovered during routine pelvic exams. If a patient does have symptoms, they should seek medical attention promptly as these complications can sometimes become quite serious. Regular check-ups and early detection can help prevent major issues.
Home remedies of Ovarian cyst
Ovarian cysts typically don’t cause any symptoms and go away on their own. However, for larger cysts, doctors generally recommend surgery.
While medicine cannot prevent or eliminate ovarian cysts, some natural methods may help manage symptoms or help with prevention. Here are a few suggested methods by some natural health advocates, although these solutions won’t substitute professional medical advice:
1. Heat Therapy: Using heat for pain relief from ovarian cysts is a proven home remedy. Apply a heating pad to the abdominal area for relief.
2. Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help manage pelvic pain and discomfort.
3. Healthy diet: Adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains may help manage your symptoms.
4. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess body weight can lead to an increase in the production of certain hormones and thereby heightening the risk of developing ovarian cysts. Keeping a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help in this respect.
5. Herbal teas: Certain herbal teas, like chamomile tea, may provide pain relief.
6. Regular Exercise: Regular physical exercise can help boost your immune system and may also help reduce the risk of cysts. It can also help with weight management.
7. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water regularly can help your body naturally detox to rid itself from impurities.
8. Taking prenatal vitamins: Some practitioners believe that vitamins such as Vitamin B may reduce ovarian cysts risk.
Remember to always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or making drastic changes to your lifestyle. In cases of persistent discomfort or large, bothersome cysts, medical intervention such as surgery may be required.