Ovarian cysts: Beware!
Learn about ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs in the ovary or on its surface. Women have two ovaries - each the size and shape of an almond - on either side of the uterus. Eggs develop and mature in the ovaries, released during a monthly cycle during childbearing.
Many women have ovarian cysts at some point in time. Most ovarian cysts have little / no discomfort and harmlessness. Most go away on their own after a few months without treatment.
However, ovarian cysts - especially those that rupture - can cause severe symptoms. As a precaution, check the gynecology regularly for timely detection.
Symptom
Most cysts have no symptoms and go away on their own. However, large ovarian cysts can cause:
Pelvic pain - throbbing or cramping pain in the lower abdomen in the face of the cyst
Bloating or a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen
Flatulence
When do you need to see a doctor
Seek medical help right away if you have:
Sudden, severe stomach pain
Pain accompanied by fever or vomiting
In addition to the signs you also have symptoms of shock - cold, peeling skin; rapid breathing; and tired - see your doctor right away.
Reason
Most ovarian cysts develop as a result of the menstrual cycle (functional cysts). Other types of cysts are less common.
Functional cysts
The ovaries have structures called follicles. The follicle produces the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which release an egg when you ovulate.
If that cyst continues to grow, it is called a functional cyst. There are two types of functional cysts:
Ovarian cyst . Around the middle of your menstrual cycle, an egg bursts from its follicle and travels down the fallopian tube. Ovarian cysts begin when the cyst does not rupture or release an egg, but continues to grow.
Luteus cysts. When the follicle releases an egg, it starts making estrogen and progesterone for conception. This cyst is now called the corpus luteum. Sometimes, fluid builds up inside the hair follicle, causing the corpus luteum to develop into a cyst.
Most functional cysts are harmless, rarely painful, and usually go away on their own within two or three menstrual cycles.
Other types of cysts
Types of cysts unrelated to the normal function of your menstrual cycle include:
Dermal cyst . Also known as teratomas, they can contain tissue, such as hair, skin, or teeth, because they are made up of embryonic cells. Rarely develops cancer.
Adenocarcinoma . Grows on the surface of the ovary and may be filled with water or mucus.
Endometrial tumors . The result when endometrial cells grow outside of the uterus (endometriosis). Some tissue can attach to your ovaries and grow there.
Cysts and adenomas can enlarge, causing the ovaries to deviate from their position. This increases the risk of ovarian torsion, known as ovarian torsion. Ovarian torsion can also lead to decreased or stopped blood flow to the ovaries.
Risks of ovarian cysts
The risk of developing ovarian cysts by:
Hormonal problems. As fertility drugs are used to induce ovulation.
Pregnant. Sometimes, a cyst that forms when you ovulate remains on your ovary during pregnancy.
Endometriosis disease. This condition causes endometrial cells to grow outside of your uterus. Some tissue can attach to your ovaries and grow there.
Severe pelvic infections. If the infection spreads to the ovaries, it can cause a cyst.
History of ovarian cysts. If you have, you are likely to have a relapse.
Symptoms
Some women have less common types of cysts that a doctor finds out during a pelvic exam. Ovarian tumors that develop after menopause can cause cancer (malignancy). That is why you need regular gynecological exams.
Occasional complications associated with ovarian cysts include:
Ovarian torsion . Larger cysts can cause your ovaries to move, increasing your chances of twisting your ovaries (ovarian torsion). Symptoms include sudden pelvic pain, nausea, and vomiting. Ovarian torsion can also decrease or stop blood flow to the ovaries.
Broken . A ruptured cyst can cause severe pain and internal bleeding. The larger the cyst, the higher the risk of rupture. Intense activity that affects the pelvis, like intercourse also increases the risk.
Prevent
Although there is no way to prevent ovarian cysts, regular gynecological exams help detect changes in your ovaries early. Be wary of changes in the menstrual cycle, like unusual symptoms. Especially the symptoms last for more than a few cycles. Talk to your doctor about any changes you are concerned about.