Ovarian Cyst
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can cause pain and discomfort. Medical consultation is suggested.
What are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets within or on the surface of an ovary. Most ovarian cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and often resolve on their own without causing symptoms. However, some cysts can cause pain, discomfort, or complications and may require medical intervention.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
There are several types of ovarian cysts, including:
Functional Cysts
- Follicular cysts: Develop when the follicle (sac) that contains the egg doesn't release the egg and continues to grow.
- Corpus luteum cysts: Form after the follicle releases the egg and then seals off, accumulating fluid inside.
Pathological Cysts
- Dermoid cysts (teratomas): Contain different types of tissues, such as hair, skin, or teeth, because they develop from embryonic cells.
- Cystadenomas: Develop from ovarian tissue and can be filled with a watery or mucous substance.
- Endometriomas: Form when endometrial tissue (the tissue that normally lines the uterus) grows on the ovaries, often associated with endometriosis.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Many ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms and are often discovered during routine pelvic exams. When symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Pelvic pain: A dull or sharp ache in the lower abdomen, usually on one side.
- Bloating or swelling: Abdominal discomfort or a feeling of fullness.
- Pain during intercourse: Discomfort or pain during sexual activity.
- Menstrual irregularities: Changes in the menstrual cycle, including heavy or irregular periods.
- Pain during bowel movements: Discomfort or pain when having a bowel movement.
- Frequent urination: Pressure on the bladder causing an increased need to urinate.
Causes of Ovarian Cysts
The development of ovarian cysts can be influenced by various factors, including:
- Hormonal imbalances: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause multiple cysts to form on the ovaries.
- Pregnancy: Some cysts develop as part of normal ovulation and may persist during pregnancy.
- Severe pelvic infections: Infections that spread to the ovaries can cause cysts.
- Endometriosis: Endometrial tissue attaching to the ovaries can lead to cyst formation.
Diagnosis of Ovarian Cysts
Diagnosing ovarian cysts typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests:
- Pelvic examination: A doctor can feel for swelling or abnormalities in the ovaries.
- Ultrasound: Imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the ovaries and identify cysts.
- Blood tests: To measure hormone levels and check for markers that can indicate ovarian cancer, such as CA-125.
- Laparoscopy: A surgical procedure in which a thin, lighted instrument is inserted into the abdomen to view the ovaries directly.
Treatment of Ovarian Cysts
The treatment of ovarian cysts depends on the size, type, and symptoms of the cysts:
Watchful Waiting
- Observation: Many cysts resolve on their own and can be monitored with periodic ultrasounds and follow-up exams.
Medications
- Hormonal contraceptives: Birth control pills can help regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent the formation of new cysts.
Surgical Options
- Cystectomy: Removal of the cyst while preserving the ovary.
- Oophorectomy: Removal of one or both ovaries if the cysts are large, persistent, or potentially cancerous.
- Laparoscopy: Minimally invasive surgery to remove cysts using small incisions and a camera.
- Laparotomy: More extensive surgery with a larger abdominal incision, usually reserved for larger or potentially malignant cysts.