Know All About Ovarian Cysts

This blog embarks on a journey to unravel the myths surrounding ovarian cysts. We will try and understand these tiny, often painless, bubbles and how impact your health and well-being. From the curious minds seeking knowledge to those experiencing the effects firsthand, our mission is to shed light on the complexities of ovarian cysts and provide a compass for navigating this condition.
Beyond the clinical definitions and complicated medical terms, ovarian cysts are stories etched in the physiology of countless women. This blog seeks to translate those stories into relatable narratives, exploring their types, the potential symptoms that can signal their presence, and various factors that contribute to their formation.

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets in an ovary or on its surface. Ovaries are a part of the female reproductive system and they are located in the lower abdomen region, on each side of the uterus. The ovaries release eggs as well as female reproductive hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cysts are common in women of reproductive age and are usually harmless, causing no symptoms. They are commonly detected during routine pelvic examinations. Rarely ovarian cysts can cause complications and may indicate an underlying condition. However, most cysts are harmless and go away on their own without treatment. Let’s take a look at the causes and symptoms of ovarian cysts.

Depending on the type of cyst, ovarian cysts can have various causes. The following is a summary of the primary causes of ovarian cysts:

• Functional Cysts: The most typical kind of ovarian cysts are functional cysts, that form during ovulation (release of an egg from the ovaries). These cysts usually shrink by themselves within about 60 days.
• Follicular cyst: This cyst develops when the follicle fails to rupture and release an egg during the menstrual cycle. It continues to grow and form a cyst. 
• Corpus luteum cyst: Here, the follicle ruptures and releases the egg. Later if the follicle gets filled with fluid instead of shrinking it can form into a cyst. 
• Dermoid cysts or teratomas: These cysts are formed from embryonic cells. They can include tissue like hair, fat, and occasionally bone or teeth. 
• Cystadenomas: These cysts develop on the outer surface of the ovary and contain a watery or mucous material. The cause of cystadenomas is not known.
• Endometriomas: Endometriomas are cysts that form when the endometrium (the tissues lining the uterus) start growing within the ovaries.  

Other potential causes or factors contributing to the development of ovarian cysts include:

• Hormonal problems: Conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are those which can harm the ovaries.
• Pregnancy-related cyst: Sometimes, a cyst that forms when the egg is released isn’t discarded. It occurs in case of an ectopic pregnancy and usually resolves on its own.
• Previous severe pelvic infection: Infection of the fallopian tubes or the womb can spread to the ovaries.

Routine pelvic exams and close observation of any odd symptoms can aid in the early diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cysts.

A large number of ovarian cysts are asymptomatic, which means they don't show any symptoms. The following are a few potential symptoms of ovarian cysts:
 

• Pelvic pain or discomfort ranges from a dull, vague ache to a more severe, sharp pain that may be associated with your periods.
• Bloating or a feeling of fullness in your abdomen.
• Pressure on your bladder
• Fullness or heaviness in your abdomen.
• Dull ache in your lower back and thighs.
• Breast tenderness.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diminished appetite.
• Abnormal bleeding.
• Pain during intercourse.
• Changes in your bowel movements 

It is important to remember that while these symptoms may point to the existence of an ovarian cyst, they may also suggest the presence of an underlying medical condition. So, someone experiencing any of these symptoms should speak with a healthcare professional for a correct diagnosis and suitable treatment.

Imaging tests and clinical assessments are usually used in the diagnosis of ovarian cysts. Below is a summary of the diagnostic procedures:

• Pelvic Examination: To check for any irregularities or enlargement in the ovaries, your doctor will usually begin with a pelvic examination.
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound is a common and effective tool in diagnosing ovarian cysts. This method uses sound waves to create detailed images of the ovaries. There are two types of ultrasound imaging:

1. Transabdominal ultrasound: Transabdominal ultrasound is done with a device called a transducer that is moved gently over your abdomen. 
2. Transvaginal ultrasound: The transvaginal ultrasound is done by putting a transducer inside your vagina. It makes better images than the transabdominal ultrasound and provides more details in general. 

• Blood Test: Blood tests may be done to check levels of hormones, especially for women in whom conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are suspected. The CA-125 test measures the amount of the protein CA-125 (cancer antigen 125) in your blood. 
• Pregnancy test: A positive pregnancy test should raise your concern for an ovarian cyst being a corpus luteum cyst.
• Laparoscopy: A laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a surgeon inserts a small camera (laparoscope) through a tiny incision in the lower abdomen to directly view the ovaries and determine the type of cyst. It can also be used to remove the cyst if necessary at the same time.
• Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): If a more detailed view is needed or to distinguish between a benign and a potentially malignant cyst, a CT or MRI scan may be advised.

Ovarian cysts are generally harmless and asymptomatic. Routine check-ups and pelvic examinations are a way for early diagnosis and treatment if necessary. 

Treatment for ovarian cysts varies according to the type, size, and symptoms of the cyst as well as the woman's menopausal status. The streamlined treatment approaches are as follows:

• Watchful waiting: Small, asymptomatic cysts may be monitored for a time period especially if they are likely to be functional cysts.
• Medication:

1. Hormonal contraceptives: Birth control pills have the potential to reduce or eliminate pre-existing cysts.
2. Painkillers: Over-the-counter painkillers such as naproxen sodium (Aleve) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, and other brands) can help manage pelvic discomfort.

• Surgery:

1. Cystectomy: The removal of the cyst and the preservation of the ovary.
2. Oophorectomy: The removal of the affected ovary. This may be necessary if the cyst is large, does not look like a functional cyst, is solid, or if cancer is suspected.
3. Hysterectomy: A total hysterectomy or removal of the uterus and cervix may be needed in rare cases if complications arise.

• Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is a treatment for endometriomas that can help control symptoms but not the cyst itself.
• Lifestyle Changes: Research indicates that dietary and activity changes may help manage symptoms, particularly in conditions like PCOS.

The patient's unique circumstances determine the best course of action, and it's critical to have frequent check-ups to track any cyst changes.

• Rupture: A cyst can burst, causing severe pain and internal bleeding.
• Ovarian torsion: Larger cysts can cause the ovary to move out of its normal position. This increases the chance of painful twisting of your ovary, called ovarian torsion.
• Cancer: In rare cases, the cyst may be cancerous (ovarian cancer). Ovarian cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body.
• Infertility: Some cysts can affect a woman’s ability to get pregnant.
• Recurring cysts: Some women develop cysts again following treatment for a previous cyst. In these cases, your doctor may prescribe hormonal contraceptives to prevent ovulation and reduce the risk of new cysts forming.

The risk of ovarian cysts, unfortunately, cannot be eliminated as its relationship with the menstrual cycle does not make prevention possible, but here are some steps that may help.

• Regular Checkups: Routine gynecological exams aid in detecting any abnormal changes in the ovaries.
• Hormonal Birth Control: The use of contraceptives, whether in pill form, patch, vaginal ring, shot, or IUD, might prevent the development of new functional ovarian cysts by suppressing ovulation.
• Healthy living: With nutritious eating habits and regular exercise, the risk of hormonal imbalances is less.
• Manage Stress: By implementing relaxation measures, getting enough rest, and, above all, a healthy way of life, the risk of reproductive disorders can be lessened.
• Be Vigilant with Symptoms: Be conscious about your body in order to notice any symptoms early. 

As we conclude it is important to understand that ovarian cysts are generally harmless and do not treatment. In cases where they require treatment, the management differs based on the type and symptoms of the cyst.

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