Ovarian Cyst

An ovarian cyst is a condition that occurs when a sac filled with fluid develops inside one of the ovaries. The ovaries are part of the reproductive system in females and are located in the lower part of the abdomen. Ovarian cysts are usually small in size, but there have been cases of cysts over 5 meters long. Unlike an abscess that is filled with pus, an ovarian cyst is filled with either gaseous, liquid, or aqueous material.

Ovarian cysts are usually harmless and can appear at any age, but they are common among women who haven’t reached menopause. Studies have shown that 7% of women worldwide will experience ovarian cysts.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

There are two main types of ovarian cysts – functional ovarian cysts and pathological cysts. Below is an overview of each of them:

Functional Ovarian Cysts:

These are the most common types of cysts. They are usually harmless and short-lived. Functional ovarian cysts are sub-categorized into two groups — follicular cysts and luteal ovarian cysts.

• Follicular Cysts: These occur when the follicle (a sack filled with fluid that helps protect the egg) doesn’t release its fluids after releasing the egg.
• Luteal Ovarian Cysts: These develop when the corpus leteum (the tissues left behind after the egg is released) is filled with blood.

Pathological Cysts:

These are cysts that are caused by unusual cell growth that isn’t linked to the menstrual cycle. There are two pathological cysts types — cystadenomas and dermoid cysts.

• Cystadenomas: They develop from cells in the outer layer of the ovary. They are filled with a dense, mucus-like substance.
• Dermoid Cysts: Dermoid cysts develop from the cells that make eggs. It is common among women in their 30s.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

Some common symptoms include:

• Vomiting
• Fever
• Abdominal swelling
• Painful intercourse
• Nausea
• Fainting
• Rapid breathing
• Pelvic pain during the menstrual cycle
• Breast tenderness
• Painful bowel movements

Diagnosis of Ovarian Cysts

Here are some methods your doctor may use to diagnose you:

• Ultrasound: Here, an ultrasound device will be used to provide high-quality images of the pelvic region. The images will be examined by your doctor to see if a cyst is present. Ultrasound tests can also help doctors get a clear picture of the cyst’s shape, size, composition, and location.
• CT Scans: During this test, an imaging device will be used to create images of the pelvic area.

How to Treat Ovarian Cysts

If you are diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, your doctor may not recommend any medication or treatment immediately, as the condition often goes away on its own. However, if after several weeks or months the cyst doesn’t shrink, your doctor may recommend any of the following:

Laparotomy: This is a surgical procedure that is done to remove large cysts. During the procedure, your doctor may conduct a biopsy. This is done to find out if the cyst is cancerous.

Laparoscopy: If a cyst isn’t cancerous, a physician may perform a laparoscopy. Laparoscopy is the surgical removal of cysts. During the procedure, an incision will be made close to the navel. Next, a special device will be inserted into the opening and used to remove the cyst.

Birth Control Pills: Your doctor may prescribe birth control pills if you have had an ovarian cyst several times. Birth control pills can stop the development of ovarian cysts. It can also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.

How to Manage Ovarian Cysts

Below are some alternative treatments for ovarian cysts. Consult your doctor before trying any of them.

Almonds: Almonds are a nutrient-dense nut, loaded with antioxidants, vitamin E, and magnesium. Studies suggest that consuming magnesium-rich foods may help reduce some of the symptoms from an ovarian cyst {100 grams of almonds contains about 370 milligrams of magnesium}.

Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties and may help ease some of the symptoms of the condition.

Massage: If you have an ovarian cyst, the muscles in the pelvic area become tensed. Massaging your stomach, back, buttocks, and thighs can help reduce the pain.

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FAQ

1. When should I consult a doctor? You should seek prompt medical attention if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Dizziness
• Severe pelvic pain

2. How do you prevent ovarian cysts? Below are a few things you can do to reduce the probability of developing ovarian cysts:

• Stop smoking
• Lose weight or maintain a healthy weight
• Don’t take fertility medication

Healthier Me Today is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment, always consult with your healthcare professional. Stay healthy!