Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

What is an ovarian cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a common condition where solid or fluid-filled sacs develop within or on your ovary.

Is an ovarian cyst common? 

Many women experience ovarian cysts that develop and regress spontaneously over time. Most cysts are harmless, but some may cause serious symptoms that require medical attention.

What are the types of ovarian cysts?

1. Functional cyst (simple cyst)

   •  The most common type, not disease-related, occurs due to ovulation and typically regresses without treatment.

2. Cystadenoma

   • A benign cyst that forms on the ovary's surface, filled with thin, watery, or thicker mucous material.

3. Dermoid cyst (teratoma)

   • Consists of cells forming tissues like hair, skin, or teeth.

4. Endometrioma

   • Results from endometriosis, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows in the abdomen or pelvis, forming a cyst on the ovary.

5. Ovarian cancer

   • Contains cancerous cells within the ovary.

What causes ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts are most commonly related to ovulation. Abnormal cell reproduction may cause dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, and ovarian cancer. Pelvic infections can also lead to cyst formation.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts?

Most ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms. However, a large ovarian cyst may cause dull aching pain or heavy sensation in the pelvic area. 

What are the risk factors of having an ovarian cyst?

1. Hormonal imbalance

   • An imbalance of oestrogen and progesterone can affect ovulation, leading to fluid-filled sacs in the ovary.

2. Pregnancy

   • Corpus luteum cysts are common during pregnancy and usually resolve as pregnancy progresses.

3. History of ovarian cyst

   • Previous cysts increase the likelihood of new cysts forming.

4. Pelvic infection

   • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can spread to the ovaries, causing cysts.

5. Endometriosis

   • Can lead to endometrioma (blood-filled cyst).

What are the possible complications of ovarian cysts?

1. Ovarian torsion

   • Large cysts can cause the ovary to twist, cutting off blood flow and causing severe pain, nausea, and vomiting.

2. Ovarian cyst rupture

   •  Large cysts may rupture, leading to severe pain.

3. Ovarian cancer

   • Cysts formed after menopause are more likely to be cancerous.

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

1. Medical history and physical examination 

   • A detailed history and pelvic examination can detect lumps or changes in the pelvis.

2. Pregnancy test

   • Your doctor may perform a pregnancy test to rule out the possibility of pregnancy as simple cysts may occur during pregnancy. 

3. Ultrasound

   • An imaging investigation that detects cysts or any abnormalities in the ovary. 

4. Laparoscopy

   • A minimally invasive procedure to view reproductive organs and the pelvic cavity. Involves a camera being inserted through a small incision in the abdomen. 

5. Blood tests

   • Blood tests, such as tumour markers, can check for abnormal cancer levels in the blood.

How are ovarian cysts treated?

1. Watchful waiting

   • Monitoring the cyst with periodic ultrasounds.

2. Medication

   • Hormonal pills to control ovulation.

3. Surgery

   • Removal of the cyst (cystectomy) or ovary (oophorectomy) if necessary, often performed via laparoscopy.

FAQ

When should I be worried about an ovarian cyst?

If you experience sudden or severe pain, nausea, vomiting, abnormal bleeding, or bloating, seek medical attention immediately. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important.

What can I do to prevent ovarian cysts?

Currently, there is no way to prevent ovarian cysts. Regular gynaecological check-ups can detect cysts early and monitor their changes.

Can I still get pregnant if I have an ovarian cyst?

Ovarian cysts usually do not affect fertility. However, conditions like hormonal imbalance, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or endometriosis that cause cysts can affect your ability to conceive. Consult your doctor if you are concerned about fertility.

Additional Support

If you have any concerns about ovarian cysts, feel free to reach out to Thomson Medical. Our team is here to assist you with any questions and provide the support you need.