Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Types of Ovarian Cysts

There are two primary categories of ovarian cysts: functional and non-functional.

1. Functional Cysts:

These cysts are the most common type. They arise in response to your menstrual cycle and are typically benign. They often disappear on their own within a few months. These can be —

• Follicular Cysts:

These form when a follicle, responsible for releasing an egg during ovulation, doesn't release it and instead fills it with fluid.

• Corpus Luteum Cysts:

After ovulation, the remaining follicle transforms into a corpus luteum, a structure that produces hormones. Sometimes, fluid can accumulate within the corpus luteum, forming a cyst.

2. Non-Functional Cysts:

These cysts are not related to your menstrual cycle and can be benign or malignant (cancerous). These can be —

• Cystadenomas:

These cysts form on the ovary's surface and can be filled with watery or mucous-like fluid.

• Dermoid Cysts (Teratomas) :

These uncommon cysts contain various types of body tissues, such as hair, skin, or even teeth.

• Endometriomas:

These cysts form when the endometrial tissue, the lining of the uterus, implants on the ovary. This can occur in women with endometriosis (i.e., a condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus).

Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

Many women with ovarian cysts experience no symptoms at all, especially with smaller cysts. However, if one has developed larger cysts, ovarian cyst symptoms can include —

• Pelvic pain:

This can manifest as a dull, intermittent ache in your lower abdomen or back.

• Bloating:

You might feel a sensation of fullness or pressure in your lower belly, which may be more pronounced on one side.

• Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) :

Sexual activity can be uncomfortable if a cyst presses on surrounding tissues.

• Irregular or painful periods:

Changes in your menstrual cycle, such as heavier or more painful periods, can sometimes occur.

Diagnosis

During a routine pelvic examination, your doctor may detect an ovarian cyst by feeling an unusual mass on your ovary. To confirm the presence and characteristics of the cyst, they might recommend imaging tests, such as —

• Ultrasound:

This painless test uses sound waves to create a visual representation of your internal organs. It helps determine the cyst's size, location, shape, and whether it's filled with fluid or solid material.

• CT Scan:

This imaging technique uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of your abdomen and pelvis, providing a clearer view of the cyst.

• MRI Scan:

This scan uses magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of your internal organs, which can be helpful in differentiating between different categories of cysts.

Risk Factors

While any woman with ovaries can develop an ovarian cyst, certain factors can increase your risk, such as —

• Age:

Ovarian cysts are more prevalent in women who haven't yet gone through menopause.

• Pregnancy:

Cysts can form and persist during pregnancy.

• History of Ovarian Cysts:

Having had an ovarian cyst in the past increases your chances of developing another one.

• Underlying Medical Conditions:

Endometriosis, hormone imbalances, and fertility medications like Clomiphene can elevate your risk.

Complications

Although most ovarian cysts are benign, some potential complications exist, such as —

• Ovarian Cancer:

While rare, ovarian cysts that develop after menopause are more likely to be cancerous than those that form before.

• Ruptured Ovarian Cyst:

Functional cysts often rupture without causing any problems. However, a ruptured cyst can lead to severe abdominal pain and swelling, especially for larger cysts.

• Ovarian Torsion:

Large cysts can twist the ovary, cutting off its blood supply. This can cause nausea, intense pain, and vomiting and requires immediate medical attention.

Treatment Options

Most ovarian cysts don't require treatment and disappear on their own within a few menstrual cycles. However, if you experience persistent or severe symptoms, your doctor might recommend ovarian cyst treatment based on the type and size of the cyst. Here are some potential treatment options —

• Pain Management:

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen can help manage discomfort caused by ovarian cysts.

• Hormonal Birth Control:

Birth control pills can regulate ovulation and prevent the formation of new functional cysts. They may also reduce discomfort associated with existing cysts.

• Surgery:

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the cyst. There are two primary surgical approaches for removing ovarian cysts —

• Laparoscopy:

This minimally invasive surgery involves making small incisions in the abdomen and inserting a laparoscope, a thin instrument with a camera, to visualise the cyst. Surgical instruments are then inserted through other small incisions to remove the cyst.

• Laparotomy:

In some instances, a larger abdominal incision might be necessary to access and remove the cyst, especially for complex cases or very large cysts. This approach is generally less common than laparoscopy.

How to Prevent Ovarian Cysts?

Unfortunately, there's no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cysts entirely. However, some measures can potentially reduce your risk, such as —

• Routine Gynaecological Examinations:

Regular pelvic exams by your doctor allow for early detection of ovarian cysts and prompt intervention if necessary.

• Oral Contraceptives:

Birth control pills can regulate ovulation, potentially reducing the formation of functional cysts.

• Maintaining a Healthy Weight:

Research suggests a possible link between obesity and an enhanced risk of developing ovarian cysts. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise might be beneficial.

When to See a Doctor

It's crucial to consult your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms that could indicate an ovarian cyst or other underlying condition:

• Irregular or painful periods

• Persistent pelvic pain

• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite

• Abdominal bloating or pressure

• Difficulty urinating or emptying your bladder

• Pain during intercourse

• Sudden and severe abdominal pain, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, dizziness, or cold sweats (potential signs of a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion)