Ovarian Cysts: Types, Symptoms & When They Need Attention
Ovarian cysts are a common health issue many women face during their lifetime. While the term “cyst” can sound alarming, most ovarian cysts are harmless and resolve on their own without causing any symptoms. However, some cysts may lead to discomfort or complications, making it important to understand what ovarian cysts are, their types, symptoms, and when you should seek medical help.
What Are Ovarian Cysts?
An ovarian cyst is essentially a fluid-filled sac that develops on or inside an ovary. Women have two ovaries, which are part of the reproductive system and are responsible for releasing eggs during the menstrual cycle and producing hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cysts can form as part of the normal ovulation process or due to other causes unrelated to the menstrual cycle.
The majority of ovarian cysts are small, benign (non-cancerous), and don’t cause any noticeable symptoms. They often go away on their own over a few weeks or months. But sometimes, cysts grow larger, cause pain, or lead to serious issues like rupture or ovarian torsion (twisting), which requires urgent medical care.
Different Types of Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts come in several types, each with different causes and implications. The most common types include:
Functional Cysts: These cysts are the most common and are related to the normal function of your ovaries during your menstrual cycle. Each month, a follicle develops to release an egg. Sometimes, the follicle doesn’t release the egg and keeps growing, creating a follicular cyst. Alternatively, after the egg is released, the follicle can seal off and fill with fluid, forming a corpus luteum cyst. Functional cysts usually cause no symptoms and disappear within a few menstrual cycles.
Dermoid Cysts: Also called teratomas, dermoid cysts are a type of growth that contains different types of tissues, such as hair, skin, or teeth. These cysts develop from cells that can form eggs and may slowly enlarge over time. While benign, they sometimes require surgical removal, especially if they grow large.
Cystadenomas: These cysts develop from the surface of the ovary and are filled with either watery fluid or thick mucus. Cystadenomas can become quite large and may cause discomfort due to their size.
Endometriomas: Found in women with endometriosis, these cysts form when the uterine lining tissue grows outside the uterus and attaches to the ovaries. They are filled with thick, dark blood and are often called “chocolate cysts.” Endometriomas may cause significant pelvic pain, especially during menstruation or sexual activity.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterized by the presence of many small cyst-like follicles on the ovaries. Women with PCOS often experience irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and excess hair growth. Unlike typical cysts, these follicles reflect a hormonal imbalance rather than isolated cyst formation.
Symptoms You Should Watch For
Most ovarian cysts don’t cause symptoms and are found during routine gynecological exams or ultrasounds done for other reasons. However, when symptoms do occur, they can vary in intensity and nature.
Common symptoms include a dull or sharp ache in the lower abdomen, often on one side. Some women notice abdominal bloating or a feeling of fullness. Pain during intercourse, changes in menstrual cycles like heavier bleeding or irregular periods, and frequent or urgent urination if the cyst presses on the bladder may also occur.
A ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion (twisting) is more serious and usually causes sudden, severe pelvic pain, sometimes accompanied by nausea or vomiting. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
How Are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed?
If you have symptoms or during a pelvic exam, your healthcare provider may suspect an ovarian cyst. Diagnosis typically involves an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create an image of the ovaries and cysts. Ultrasound helps determine the cyst’s size, type, and whether it is solid or filled with fluid.
Sometimes, blood tests may be ordered to measure hormone levels or to check for tumor markers such as CA-125, particularly in women who are postmenopausal or if the cyst appears suspicious on imaging. Additional imaging, like MRI or CT scan,s can provide more detailed views when necessary.
Treatment Options
The good news is that many ovarian cysts do not require treatment and will go away on their own. For small functional cysts, doctors often recommend a watchful waiting approach, monitoring the cyst with repeat ultrasounds over a few months.
If the cyst persists, grows larger, or causes symptoms, treatment may be necessary. Hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills might be prescribed to regulate your menstrual cycle and prevent new cysts, although they don’t shrink existing cysts.
Surgery may be needed if a cyst is large, causing persistent pain, or appears suspicious. The surgical approach varies, but many cyst removals are now done using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. This means smaller incisions, faster recovery, and less pain after the procedure. Sometimes the cyst can be removed while preserving the ovary, but in severe cases, the ovary itself might need to be removed.
When to See a Doctor
While ovarian cysts often don’t cause serious problems, some signs warrant prompt medical evaluation. If you experience sudden, severe pelvic pain, fever, vomiting, or signs of shock (such as dizziness or rapid breathing), seek emergency care immediately. These may indicate cyst rupture or ovarian torsion.
If you notice persistent pelvic pain, unusual bleeding, bloating, or discomfort during sex, it’s also wise to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and give you peace of mind.
Preventing Complications and Taking Care of Your Health
You can’t always prevent ovarian cysts, but regular gynecological check-ups help detect any problems early. If you have conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, working closely with your doctor to manage symptoms is important. Maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and monitoring your menstrual cycles can also support overall reproductive health.
Final Thoughts
Ovarian cysts are common and usually not dangerous. Understanding the different types, symptoms to watch for, and available treatments empowers you to take control of your health. Most women with ovarian cysts live healthy, symptom-free lives.
If you have concerns or experience symptoms related to ovarian cysts, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. Timely care and monitoring can keep you comfortable and prevent complications.