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Signs Of A Cyst On The Ovaries

Ovarian cysts are sacs inside or on the surface of the ovary that is typically filled with fluid. Normally, these cysts grow during ovulation, which occurs when one of the ovaries produces an egg during a woman's period.

Ovaries are a crucial component of the female reproductive system. Every woman has two ovaries, where the egg is released from. They are oval in form, about four centimetres in length, and are located on each side of the uterus against the pelvic wall.

An ovarian cyst is common. You often experience little to no discomfort, and the ovarian cysts are not harmful. Within a few months, the majority of cysts disappear without therapy.

However, ovarian cysts can occasionally twist or burst open (rupture). Severe symptoms may result from this. Get regular pelvic exams and be aware of the signs that could point to a significant issue if you want to safeguard your health.

What Are the Causes and Symptoms of an Ovarian Cyst?

The majority of ovarian cysts are painless and disappear on their own. But a large ovarian cyst may result in:

• Moderate to severe pelvic pain that may be recurrent. In the region below your belly button, you might have either a dull aching or a sharp sensation shifting to one side.

• Feeling heavy, pressed, or complete in your stomach (abdomen).

• Bloating

Immediately seek medical assistance if you have:

• Sudden, excruciating pelvic or abdominal discomfort

• Pain accompanied with vomiting or fever

• Shock symptoms include clammy, chilly skin; shallow breathing; dizziness; or weakness.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

The majority of ovarian cysts are caused by your menstrual cycle. Functioning cysts is the term used for them. Other kinds of cysts are much less common.

Functional Cysts

Every month, your ovaries produce little cysts called follicles. When you ovulate, a follicle bursts open to release an egg and produces the chemicals progesterone and oestrogen.

Functional cysts are monthly follicles that keeps expanding. Two categories of functioning cysts exist;

• Follicular cyst. In this type of ovarian cyst, an egg breaks off from its follicle midway during your menstrual cycle. After that, the egg descends into a fallopian tube. When the follicle doesn't break, follicular cysts form. It keeps its egg inside and grows instead of releasing it.

• Corpus luteum cyst. A follicle contracts after releasing its egg and starts to make oestrogen and progesterone. For conception, these hormones are necessary. The corpus luteum is the new name for the follicle. The egg's original entrance can occasionally become blocked. Then, corpus luteum cysts develop when fluid collects inside the corpus luteum.

Functional cysts are typically not dangerous. Moreover, functional cysts rarely hurt and frequently go away on their own after two to three menstrual cycles.

Other Cysts

Other types of ovarian cysts that do not coincide with menstrual cycle include:

• Dermoid cyst. This cyst, which is also known as a teratoma, develops from reproductive cells in the ovary that produce eggs (germ cells). Tissue from the scalp, lips, or teeth may be present in the cyst. This kind of cyst cancer is rare.

• Cystadenoma. Cells on an ovary's surface give rise to this particular sort of cyst. A fluid or mucous substance may be present in the cyst's interior. Large cystadenomas are possible.

• Endometrioma. A disorder called endometriosis results in the growth of cells outside the uterus that resemble those that are lining the interior of the uterus. The tissue may join with the ovary and develop into a cyst in some cases.

Large dermoid cysts and cystadenomas can shift the ovary out of place. Ovarian torsion, a painful twisting of the ovary, is now more likely as a result. Blood flow to the ovary may be slowed or stopped by ovarian torsion.

Complication of an Ovarian Cyst

Ovarian cyst consequences are rare. However, they are possible. These consist of:

• Ovarian torsion. The ovary may migrate if a cyst grows in size. This raises the possibility of the ovary twisting painfully (ovarian torsion). You can experience abrupt, acute pelvic pain, nausea, and vomiting if this occurs. Blood flow to the ovary can be decreased or stopped by ovarian torsion.

• Cyst rupture. When a cyst ruptures, it can result in excruciating pain and internal bleeding in the pelvic. The danger of rupture increases with cyst size. Vaginal sex and other strenuous pelvic activities raise the threat of rupture even further.

Prevention

The vast majority of cysts on the ovaries cannot be avoided. However, routine pelvic exams make it feasible to identify changes in your ovaries as soon as possible. Be aware of modifications to your monthly cycle. Unusual menstrual symptoms, particularly those that last for more than a few cycles, should be noted. Discuss any changes that worry you with your healthcare physician.

FAQs

Do most ovarian cysts cause ovarian cancer?

No. Most ovarian cysts are non cancerous and harmless. They may go away on their own even without ovarian cyst treatment. However, some rare cases of ovarian cysts can progress into ovarian cancer.

What are the risk factors of having an ovarian cyst?

You are at higher risk of acquiring ovarian cyst when you have severe pelvic infection, previous ovarian cyst, endometriosis, hormonal problems, or if you are pregnant.

What should you do when you have symptoms of ovarian cysts?

If you suffer from recurrent or sudden severe pain in the pelvis, have irregular periods, or have discomfort that persists for a few weeks, make sure to consult your doctor. Your healthcare provider will then work on diagnosing ovarian cysts through conducting an ultrasound scan. Blood tests may also be conducted.

Learn more about women's health concerns by visiting our women's health hub here.