Ovarian Cysts
What are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with semi-solid material or fluid that develop on or inside the ovaries. Ovaries are small organs in the female reproductive system whose function is to make female hormones and hold egg cells.
The body may develop different types of cysts, out of which some are normal and harmless, called functional cysts, while others could be disease-related cysts. The functional cysts may develop every month due to ovulation and shrink with time without any specific treatment. They are harmless and do not cause any issues. On the other hand, the disease-related cysts could show symptoms.
Symptoms of an ovarian cyst
If the ovarian cyst is small, it may show very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. However, women with larger cysts may experience the following symptoms:
- Pain in the pelvic region
- Persistent backache
- Abdominal bloating
- Painful bowel movements
- Painful intercourse
- Painful periods
- Tender breasts
- Nausea and vomiting
If the woman develops a high fever with sharp pelvic pain and dizziness, it could be a sign of a ruptured cyst or an ovarian torsion. In such cases, immediate treatment is required to prevent serious consequences.
What factors increase the risk of Ovarian Cysts?
- Hormonal imbalance – Intake of hormonal supplements or fertility drugs may increase ovarian activity and lead to cyst formation.
- Pregnancy – Cysts may develop in early pregnancy to support the fetus and usually resolve on their own.
- Pelvic infection – Infections in the pelvic region can spread to the ovaries and contribute to cyst development.
- Endometriosis – Tissue growing outside the uterus can lead to cyst formation and may cause pain and fertility issues.
- History of ovarian cysts – Previous cysts increase the chances of developing new ones.
Diagnosis and treatment of Ovarian Cysts
Diagnosis
- The doctor performs a pelvic examination to check the vagina, cervix and uterus for the presence of any lumps. An ultrasound scan is also prescribed to detect cysts on the ovaries. The doctor may also run a few blood tests to measure the level of certain hormones in the body. Lastly, a laparoscopic study will confirm the presence of ovarian cysts.
Treatment
- Functional cysts are harmless and go away without any treatment. The doctor may prescribe medications to stop ovulation and prevent further cyst formation. If the cysts are larger and causing symptoms, laparoscopy surgery is performed.
In laparoscopy, the doctor makes a small incision in the abdomen and subsequently inserts a small device called a laparoscope with a small camera. The doctor views the reproductive organs and pelvic cavity with this device and removes the cysts surgically.
Visit Pragati IVF Center to know more about Ovarian Cysts and treatment options to prevent serious consequences.