Ovarian cysts

Ovarian cysts are sacs in or on the surface of the ovary that are usually filled with fluid. Females are born with two ovaries. Each side of the uterus contains one ovary.

Each ovary is around the size and shape of a little almond. In the ovaries, eggs develop and mature. During the reproductive years, eggs are produced in monthly cycles.

Ovarian cysts are rather common. Most of the time, there is little or no discomfort, and the cysts are completely harmless. Most cysts resolve on their own after a few months.

However, ovarian cysts can twist or burst at any time (rupture). This can result in significant symptoms. Get regular pelvic exams and be aware of the symptoms that could indicate a significant problem to protect your health.

Types of Ovarian Cyst

Ovarian cysts are classified into two types.

The most prevalent variety is functional ovarian cysts. They appear during the menstrual cycle and are benign, meaning they are not malignant.

Pathological cysts develop in the ovaries and have nothing to do with the menstrual cycle. They could be benign or cancerous (malignant).

The following are the various forms of ovarian cysts:

·       Follicle cysts: These occur when a follicle fails to open in order to deliver an egg during menstruation. They are the most common type of cyst, have no symptoms, and normally resolve within 1-3 months.

·       Corpus luteum cysts: These occur when the sac that delivered the egg does not shrink normally but instead filled with fluid. They normally vanish after a few weeks, but they might grow to be about 4 inches across. They can also cause pain and bleeding by twisting the ovary.

·       Endometriomas: Endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue develops outside the womb. It may cause discomfort during menstruation and sex.

·       Dermoid cysts: These are often formed from cells present at birth. They can develop in any organ, including the ovaries.

·       Cystadenomas: These are cysts filled with a watery fluid.

·       Polycystic ovary syndrome: This requires the formation of a large number of tiny cells. It can cause pain and infertility issues, and it is linked to other health concerns.

·       Ovarian cancer: This involves malignant cysts. These cysts are uncommon, but a doctor would normally monitor any sort of cyst in case it is cancerous.

Ovarian cysts can be simple or complicated. A simple cyst is made up of fluid, whereas a complicated cyst is made up of blood or a hard object.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cyst

The majority of ovarian cysts are tiny and do not produce symptoms. If a cyst causes symptoms, you may experience pressure, bloating, swelling, or pain in the lower abdomen on the cyst's side. This pain could be intense or subtle, and it could come and go. When a cyst ruptures, it can produce excruciating pain. If an ovary twists due to a cyst, you may experience discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. Among the less common symptoms are:

·        Pelvic discomfort

·        Pain in the lower back and thighs

·        Urinating more frequently

·        Problems completely emptying the bladder or bowel

·        Unexplained weight gain during intercourse

·        Menstrual discomfort

·        Unusual (not typical) (not normal) uterine bleeding

·        Breast tenderness

Causes of Ovarian Cyst 

Depending on the type, there are several causes of ovarian cysts:

·       Follicle and corpus luteum cysts, also known as functional cysts, can be caused by ovulatory hormones and medications.

·       Endometriosis raises the likelihood of developing endometriomas.

·       During pregnancy, the corpus luteum cyst secretes progesterone to keep the pregnancy going. The placenta takes over this function, and the corpus luteum cyst normally regresses. If it continues or grows in size, a surgeon may be required to remove it.

·       Cysts can occur as a result of infections of the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

 

Preventions of Ovarian cyst 

Ovarian cysts cannot be avoided. Routine gynecologic exams, on the other hand, can discover ovarian cysts early. Ovarian cysts that are benign do not develop into a malignancy. However, symptoms of ovarian cancer can be confused with those of an ovarian cyst. As a result, it's critical to see your doctor and get a proper diagnosis. Notify your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

·       Abdominal fullness

·       Persistent pelvic discomfort

·       Changes in your menstrual cycle

·       Appetite loss

·       Unexpected weight loss

Ovarian Cyst Risk Factors

The following factors may increase your risk of developing ovarian cysts:

·        Hormonal issues Taking clomiphene (Clomid) to help you ovulate may raise your chance of cysts.

·        Pregnancy The cyst that forms after ovulation may remain on your ovary after you become pregnant and throughout the duration of your pregnancy.

·        Endometriosis Cells that normally line the interior of your uterus proliferate outside of it. These errant cells can connect to your ovary and grow into a cyst.

·        A serious pelvic infection If this spreads to your ovaries, it can result in cysts.

·        An ovarian cyst in the past. If you've already had at least one ovarian cyst, you're more likely to develop more.

Treatment for an ovarian cyst

If the cyst does not go away on its own or develops larger, your doctor may recommend therapy to reduce or remove it.

Birth control pills

If you have recurring ovarian cysts, your doctor may prescribe oral contraceptives to prevent ovulation and the formation of new cysts. Oral contraceptives can also lower your risk of developing ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is more common in postmenopausal women.

Laparoscopy

If your cyst is small and the result of an imaging test rules out cancer, your doctor can remove it surgically with a laparoscopy. Your doctor will make a tiny incision around your navel and then insert a small instrument into your abdomen to remove the cyst.

Laparotomy

If you have a huge cyst, your doctor may remove it surgically through a major incision in your belly. They will perform an urgent biopsy, and if the cyst is found to be malignant, they may perform a hysterectomy to remove your ovaries and uterus.

Conclusion

We're delighted that we could assist you in learning more about ovarian cysts! You should be able to take better care of yourself and seek treatment more promptly now that you know what they are and how they affect your body. We wish everyone the best on their paths to health and happiness.