What are ovarian cysts?
The main causes of ovarian cysts may include hormonal imbalance, pregnancy, endometriosis, and pelvic infections.
Ovarian cysts are sacs of fluid that form on either the ovary or its surface. Women possess two ovaries which sit on either side of the uterus. The ovaries release eggs every month as a part of a woman’s menstrual cycle.
About 7% of women have an ovarian cyst at some point in their life. For most women, ovarian cysts are harmless and painless. In fact, ovarian cysts often resolve on their own without treatment.
However, in some cases, an ovarian cyst can cause pain or develop into more serious complications. Ovarian cysts may be cause for concern when they are accompanied by sudden pain or other symptoms.
Rarely, an ovarian cyst may develop into a more serious condition. If the cyst grows too large, the ovary can twist. This results in a dangerous condition known as ovarian torsion. Some cysts also run the risk of rupturing, which can cause internal bleeding. Both conditions can arise without warning and require medical intervention.
It is important to understand the causes and symptoms of cysts. Keeping up with your regular pelvic exams can help you stay healthy. Ovarian cysts are primarily caused by hormonal imbalance, endometriosis, or the natural occurrence of a corpus luteum cyst.
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When to see the doctor for ovarian cysts
If you experience any painful symptoms associated with an ovarian cyst, you should seek medical treatment. You should seek immediate treatment if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Sudden or sharp pain
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Fever
These symptoms may indicate a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion, which can be dangerous if left untreated.
Diagnosing ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts can often be diagnosed during a routine pelvic exam. Depending on the type of the cyst, your doctor will recommend additional tests in order to determine a treatment plan. Potential tests may be:
- Pregnancy test
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Laparoscopic surgery
Treatments for ovarian cysts
Once you have been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, your doctor may recommend:
- Follow-up appointments to monitor the growth of the cyst
- Hormonal birth control to slow the growth of your cyst
- Surgery to remove the cyst