TL;DR:
- Ovarian cysts: Fluid-filled sacs in or on ovaries; often benign and asymptomatic in ~50% of cases. Common types: follicular, corpus luteum, hemorrhagic, and endometrial cysts.
- Symptoms: Pain (ovarian, lower abdomen, during intercourse), bloating, irregular periods, bowel issues, lumps, early satiety, nausea, or severe pain from cyst twisting/rupture.
- Diagnosis: Transvaginal ultrasound, hormone tests, biopsy; malignant cysts require further investigation.
- Treatment: Many cysts resolve naturally. Persistent/large cysts (>5 cm) may require progesterone, laparoscopy, or surgery (especially postmenopause or cancerous cysts).
- Pregnancy: Cysts rarely hinder pregnancy; hormonal imbalances may cause complications.
- Complications: Rare but serious—cyst rupture (blood leakage) or ischemia (organ necrosis). Regular gynecological exams are key.
A cyst on the ovary is a group of pathological lesions that are detected most often during an ultrasound examination and are asymptomatic in 50% of cases. Symptoms that may worry and indicate the presence of an ovarian cyst include. ovarian pain, lower abdomen, during intercourse, trouble having a bowel movement and feeling of early satiety after a meal.
What are ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts are categorized as a group of lesions that are located in the female internal reproductive organs – the ovaries. They are usually not dangerous to the health and life of the patient, but cause concern among women diagnosed with them. An ovarian cyst takes the form of a sac-like, spherical space, which is surrounded by a wall of liquid contents. Cysts can be single or multiple – occurring in either one or both ovaries. The most common form of ovarian cyst, is the simple cyst, or follicular cyst. Its interior consists of a uniform, transparent content, and is formed due to hormonal disturbances that occur in the cycle before ovulation. A normal cycle involves follicles in the ovaries after menstruation. One of them becomes a dominant follicle, which can reach about 2 cm in diameter and release an egg cell due to the discharge of the hormone LH and FSH. When such a rupture does not occur, then the dimensions of the follicle enlarge up to twice, becoming a simple cyst. cyst on the ovary Another fairly common type of cyst is the corpus luteum cyst. It is formed due to abnormalities in the atrophy of the corpus luteum. It occurs in the second phase of the cycle and may be the result of excessive progesterone after ovulation. It usually reaches 4 – 6 cm. The cyst also includes the so-called hemorrhagic cyst, which is distinguished by the presence of heterogeneous, opaque contents inside. It is formed during ovulation, when the bursting follicle damages the blood vessels in the vicinity, and blood penetrates into the remnants of the follicle. Endometrial cyst (chocolate cyst) contains typical chocolate-colored contents and is a lesion that can occur during the course of endometriosis. However, it is worth remembering that, although far more cysts are not life-threatening, each requires regular care from a doctor. In the area of the lesions, there may be atypical cysts of cancerous origin, which already pose a serious health risk.
Cysts on the ovary – symptoms.
Cyst on the ovary in 50% does not give any symptoms. Signals that indicate that these lesions have appeared include:
- Ovarian pain,.
- Pain in the lower abdomen,
- Pain during intercourse,
- Trouble with bowel movements,
- Irregular menstrual periods,
- Flatulence,
- A palpable lump in the lower abdomen,
- Early feeling of satiety after a meal.
Cysts can be felt by a gynecologist during gynecological examination, but are much better visualized during transvaginal gynecological ultrasound. The discomfort of larger lesions depends on their size. Thus, the larger the cyst, the more likely the patient will experience the aforementioned complaints. The first symptom of larger lesions and associated complications is also the twisting or rupture of the cyst, which the woman feels as severe pain located in the lower abdomen. Nausea, vomiting and fainting may also occur in this situation.
How to deal with a cyst on the ovary?
Usually an ovarian cyst is detected incidentally during an annual visit to the gynecologist. Symptomatic or asymptomatic lesions that are detected need to be systematically observed – they usually do not require treatment. However, if a woman with an ovarian cyst notices severe pain in the ovary and lower abdomen, accompanied by nausea or vomiting – then it is necessary to visit a doctor urgently.
What is the diagnosis of a cyst on the ovary?
Symptoms caused by a cyst on the ovary do not always occur all at once or one at a time. In either case, however, it is worth going to a gynecologist, who will order tests such as a transvaginal ultrasound, blood hormone levels and a cyst biopsy. Only then will he be able to determine whether the cyst on the ovary is a malignant tumor.
How to treat a cyst on the ovary?
Treatment of a cyst on the ovary depends on the reason for the lesion and the woman's menopausal status. In patients of childbearing age, transvaginal ultrasound is repeated after menstruation. Follicular cysts usually absorb on their own. However, some gynecologists may order women to take progesterone during phase II of the cycle. When a cyst up to 5 centimeters does not disappear in the next 3 menstrual periods, or becomes larger, then this indicates the unphysiological nature of the lesion and may be a reason to implement laparoscopy.
Postmenopausal patients require a different treatment – tumors smaller than 5 cm require testing for tumor markers. When they are correct, the cyst undergoes close observation. Abnormal marker results of lesions suspected of being cancerous, require surgical removal of the lesions. However, it is recommended that cysts be removed by laparoscopy, as this technique allows patients to return to normal function more quickly. It is also associated with less pain after surgery and allows a faster recovery. For cancerous lesions, "open" surgery is performed.
Can a cyst on the ovary be completely cured?
In the vast majority of cases, small cysts absorb on their own and leave no trace. Unfortunately, in women in their reproductive years, cysts on the ovary can recur, especially in cases of hormonal imbalance. Removal of atypical cysts usually cures them completely. In the case of endometriosis, on the other hand, the situation is different. Endometrial cyst requires long-term therapy.
Does a cyst on the ovary affect getting pregnant?
A cyst on the ovary by itself is rarely an obstacle to pregnancy. Of great importance is the reason for its occurrence resulting from hormonal disorders. The decision to implement treatment in patients in their childbearing years is quite difficult, as too rapid and sudden surgery can make it difficult to get pregnant in the future. In turn, untreated cysts create the possibility of complications and miscarriages.
Is a cyst on the ovary dangerous?
If the cyst is ischemic, the lesion can twist. This is a condition comparable to a heart attack – the blood supply is interrupted, which leads to necrosis of the organ. Acute complications of cysts also involve their rupture, when blood enters the abdominal cavity. Very often such a phenomenon is not felt by the woman, and the spilled part is absorbed by itself. These two conditions are extremely rare in relation to the occurrence of asymptomatic cysts. However, it should be remembered that possible complications arise from irregular medical checks. This is why it is so important to be vigilant once a cyst is detected.
Conclusion
Ovarian cysts are common and often harmless, but monitoring is crucial for safety. While many resolve on their own, persistent or symptomatic cysts may require medical attention. Regular gynecological exams and ultrasounds ensure early detection and proper management. Ignoring symptoms like pain or unusual changes risks complications. Treatment varies by cyst type and patient factors, emphasizing tailored care. Remember, most cysts are manageable, but vigilance protects health and fertility. Stay proactive and prioritize check-ups for peace of mind and well-being.
