Ovarian Cyst

Home / Ovarian Cyst

Ovarian Cyst

Ovarian Cyst

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. They are common in women of all ages, especially during the reproductive years. Most ovarian cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and often disappear on their own without causing any symptoms. However, in some cases, they can grow large, cause pain, or lead to complications.

Types of Ovarian Cysts:

  1. Functional Cysts (Most Common): These are associated with the menstrual cycle and usually harmless.

    • Follicular Cysts:
      • During a normal menstrual cycle, an egg develops inside a sac (follicle) within the ovary. If the follicle doesn't release the egg, it may continue to grow and form a cyst.
      • These cysts are typically small and resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles.
    • Corpus Luteum Cysts:
      • After the follicle releases the egg, it becomes a structure called the corpus luteum. Sometimes, if it doesn’t shrink as expected, it can fill with fluid and form a cyst.
      • These cysts usually go away within a few weeks but may sometimes cause pain or bleeding.

  2. Pathological Cysts: These cysts are caused by abnormal cell growth and are not related to the menstrual cycle.

    • Dermoid Cysts (Teratomas):
      • Formed from embryonic cells, these cysts can contain tissues such as hair, skin, or teeth.
      • Dermoid cysts can grow large but are usually benign. However, they may cause pain or require surgical removal.
    • Cystadenomas:
      • These cysts develop from cells on the outer surface of the ovary. They can be filled with watery fluid or thick, mucous-like material.
      • Cystadenomas can grow large, causing discomfort and pressure on nearby organs.
    • Endometriomas:
      • These cysts develop in women with endometriosis when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus attaches to the ovary and forms a cyst.
      • Often called "chocolate cysts" due to the dark, blood-filled contents, they can cause pain and affect fertility.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts:

Many ovarian cysts are asymptomatic, meaning they don’t cause any noticeable symptoms. However, if symptoms do occur, they may include:

  • Pelvic pain: Often sharp or dull and can occur on one side of the abdomen. It may be intermittent or persistent.
  • Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.
  • Pain during intercourse or just before/after the menstrual period.
  • Irregular menstrual periods or changes in menstrual flow.
  • Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder (if a cyst presses on the bladder).
  • Nausea or vomiting, especially if the cyst ruptures or twists (ovarian torsion).
  • Pain during bowel movements or pressure on the bowels.
  • Fever (if associated with infection).
  • Rapid breathing, dizziness, or weakness (if the cyst causes significant internal bleeding).

Complications of Ovarian Cysts:

  1. Ovarian Torsion:

    • Large cysts can cause the ovary to move and potentially twist (torsion), cutting off the blood supply to the ovary.
    • This is a medical emergency that can cause severe pain, nausea, and vomiting. Immediate surgery is required to save the ovary.

  2. Ruptured Cyst:

    • A cyst can sometimes rupture, causing sharp, sudden pain and potentially leading to internal bleeding.
    • A ruptured cyst may need emergency treatment if the bleeding is severe.

  3. Infection:

    • In rare cases, an ovarian cyst can become infected, leading to fever, pain, and other symptoms of infection. Immediate medical attention is required.

  4. Cancer:

    • While the majority of ovarian cysts are benign, some types can be cancerous, particularly in postmenopausal women. Regular monitoring is important if a cyst appears suspicious.

Diagnosis of Ovarian Cysts:

Ovarian cysts are often discovered during routine pelvic exams or through imaging tests when a woman presents with symptoms.

  1. Pelvic Ultrasound:

    • The most common imaging test used to diagnose ovarian cysts. A transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound can show the size, shape, and type of cyst.

  2. Blood Tests:

    • CA-125 Test: This blood test checks for elevated levels of CA-125, a protein that can be higher in women with ovarian cancer. However, elevated levels can also occur due to other conditions like endometriosis or pelvic infections.

  3. CT Scan or MRI:

    • These imaging tests may be ordered if a more detailed view of the cyst is needed, particularly if there is concern about malignancy or complications.

  4. Laparoscopy:

    • A minimally invasive surgical procedure where a camera is inserted through small incisions in the abdomen to directly view the cyst and potentially remove it.

Treatment Options for Ovarian Cysts:

  1. Watchful Waiting:

    • If the cyst is small and not causing symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring it with regular ultrasounds to see if it resolves on its own.
    • This is common for functional cysts, which typically disappear within a few months.

  2. Medications:

    • Birth control pills: Hormonal contraceptives may help prevent the development of new cysts but are not effective in shrinking existing cysts.
    • Pain relievers (NSAIDs) can help manage discomfort from the cyst.

  3. Surgery:

    • Laparoscopic surgery: If a cyst is large, causing symptoms, or appears suspicious, it may be surgically removed. This minimally invasive procedure allows for a quicker recovery.
    • Laparotomy: In cases of large or potentially cancerous cysts, a more invasive surgery may be performed through a larger abdominal incision.
    • Oophorectomy: If necessary, the entire ovary may be removed, especially if there is a concern about cancer.

Ovarian Cysts and Fertility:

  • Most ovarian cysts do not affect fertility, particularly functional cysts that arise from normal ovulation.
  • However, certain cysts, such as endometriomas (associated with endometriosis) or large, persistent cysts, may affect fertility by interfering with ovulation or damaging the ovaries.
  • Women with ovarian cysts who are trying to conceive should consult their doctor about the best treatment options to preserve fertility.

When to See a Doctor:

  • Sudden, severe abdominal pain (possible torsion or rupture).
  • Persistent pelvic pain or a feeling of pressure or fullness.
  • Changes in menstrual patterns, including irregular or heavy periods.
  • Symptoms of shock, such as faintness, rapid breathing, or weakness (this may indicate significant internal bleeding from a ruptured cyst).

Other Services