Ovarian Cysts
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Ovarian Cyst
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside an ovary. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and go away on their own without treatment. However, some can cause symptoms or complications.
Common Symptoms
- Pelvic pain: This can be a dull or sharp pain in the lower abdomen.
- Fullness or heaviness: A feeling of fullness or heaviness in the lower abdomen.
- Bloating: Abdominal bloating or swelling.
- Other symptoms include: Nausea, vomiting, painful bowel movements , pain during sexual activity and severe pain before or during menstrual cycles.
- Hormonal imbalances: Including those caused by fertility drugs.
- Pregnancy: Some cysts form early in pregnancy to support the pregnancy until the placenta forms.
- Endometriosis: A condition where endometrial cells grow outside the uterus.
- Pelvic Infection
Complications
- Ovarian torsion: When a large cyst causes an ovary to move out of position and twist.
- Rupture: A cyst that bursts can cause severe pain and internal bleeding.
- Cancer: rarely some cyst can be cancerous.
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Diagnosis: Often found during routine pelvic exams. Ultrasound, blood tests, and laparoscopy can help diagnose the type and size of the cyst.
- Treatment: Many cysts resolve on their own.
- For persistent or problematic cysts: Treatments include hormonal contraceptives, laparoscopy surgery with removal of cyst and in severe cases, removal of the ovary.
