Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

 

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside one or both ovaries. They're quite common, affecting many women at some point in their lives. The good news is that most ovarian cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and often resolve on their own without treatment.

Symptoms:

• Many small cysts cause no symptoms at all. You may not even know you have one.
• Larger cysts or those that rupture or twist can cause:
  • Pelvic pain or a dull ache in the lower back or abdomen, often on one side
  • Bloating or swelling
  • Painful bowel movements or intercourse
  • Changes in menstrual cycle (irregularity, heavier or lighter bleeding)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Feeling full after eating small amounts
  • Sudden and severe abdominal pain with fever, nausea, and dizziness (may indicate a ruptured cyst)

Causes:

• Functional cysts: These are the most common type and develop during the normal menstrual cycle. Follicle cysts form when a follicle (fluid-filled sac that contains an egg) doesn't release the egg and continues to grow. Corpus luteum cysts form when the follicle releases the egg but then seals shut and traps fluid.
• Endometriomas: These cysts contain endometrial tissue, the tissue that lines the uterus. They occur in women with endometriosis.
• Dermoid cysts: These cysts can contain hair, teeth, or other skin-like tissues.
• Cystadenomas: These are non-cancerous tumors that can grow quite large.

Diagnosis:

• Pelvic exam: Your doctor will feel for any abnormalities in your ovaries.
• Ultrasound: This is the most common imaging test used to diagnose ovarian cysts.
• Other tests: Depending on the size and characteristics of the cyst, your doctor may recommend other tests like blood tests or laparoscopy.

Treatment:

• Most small cysts don't require treatment and resolve on their own within a few months. Your doctor may recommend monitoring the cyst with regular ultrasounds.
• Larger cysts, those causing symptoms, or those suspected to be cancerous may require treatment:
  • Medication: Hormone therapy may be used to shrink some types of cysts.
  • Surgery: Laparoscopy or laparotomy may be necessary to remove larger cysts, twisted cysts, or suspected cancerous cysts.

Remember:

• Ovarian cysts are common and usually harmless.
• Most cysts resolve on their own without treatment.
• Seek medical attention if you experience sudden or severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, or dizziness.
• Regular gynecological exams can help detect ovarian cysts early.