Ovarian Cyst Symptoms

The ovaries are a part of a woman’s reproductive system. The ovaries secrete two vital hormones – estrogen and progesterone. The ovaries are oval and approximately the size of a large grape. They are located on each side of the uterus and are attached to the fallopian tubes. Occasionally, a cyst will develop on the ovaries. Cysts are fluid filled sacs that are typically painless and cause no symptoms. However, if they become large, ovarian cysts can cause abdominal cramping and pain along with heavy periods. Here we look into the various types and ovarian cyst symptoms.

Types of Ovarian Cyst

There are several different types of ovarian cysts. Most cysts are referred to as functional cysts and are related to menstruation. In addition to this, there are three types of cysts that are not related to the menstrual cycle, referred to as nonfunctional cysts.

Functional Cysts

Your ovaries typically grow follicles (cyst like structures) throughout your menstrual cycle. These follicles produce progesterone and estrogen and one will release an egg during ovulation. If a follicle continues to grow, it is deemed a functional cyst. Follicular cysts along with corpus luteum cysts are the two varieties of functional cysts.

• Follicular Cysts – Follicular cysts occur when an egg fails to release from the follicle. Instead, the follicle continues to grow. These cysts are filled with clear liquid and can become quite large, up to four inches in diameter. Typically, follicular cysts go away on their own within a few weeks and do not require medical intervention.
• Corpus Luteum Cysts – When an egg is released, it begins producing hormones (estrogen and progesterone) to increase the chances of conception. At this point, the follicle is referred to as corpus luteum. If fluid fills the corpus luteum, a cyst can develop.

Nonfunctional Cysts

A nonfunctional cyst is not related to your menstrual cycle. These cysts can become large and even cause your ovary to move out of its original position. This can cause ovarian torsion, which is the painful twisting of an ovary. Ovarian torsion can slow or even halt blood flow to the ovary. Let’s take a look at the three types of nonfunctional cysts.

• Cystadenomas – Cystadenomas are noncancerous growths that develop on the surface of an ovary.
• Dermoid Cysts – Dermoid cysts are sac like growths that develop on the ovaries. They can contain fat, hair, or other tissues.
• Endometriomas – Endometriomas occurs when tissues that typically grow on the inside of the uterus begin growing outside the uterus and attach to the ovaries, creating a cyst.

Risk Factors for Ovarian Cyst

There are certain factors that can increase your risk of developing ovarian cysts. These include:

• Endometriosis
• Hormone issues
• Pelvic infections
• Pregnancy
• Previous ovarian cysts

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition that causes an abundance of small cysts to develop on the ovaries, which cause your ovary to enlarge. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) alters a woman’s hormone levels and testosterone increases. PCOS causes a multitude of symptoms, including an increased risk of infertility, heart disease, and diabetes.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cyst

At times, ovarian cysts don’t cause any noticeable symptoms. If the cyst grows in size, it can cause symptoms including:

• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Low back pain
• Nausea
• Pain in the thighs
• Painful bowel movements
• Painful intercourse
• Pelvic pain
• Vomiting

If you experience any of these severe symptoms, seek out immediate medical help as they can be a sign of ovarian torsion or a ruptured ovarian cyst:

• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Fever
• Rapid breathing
• Severe pelvic pain

Potential Complications of Ovarian Cysts

Normally, ovarian cysts are benign and will resolve without any treatment. You normally do not experience any symptoms with an ovarian cyst. Below are some potential complications of ovarian cysts.

Ovarian Torsion – If the cyst becomes large it can cause your ovary to move or twist, resulting in intense pain. In addition to this, the blood flow to the ovary can be diminished, resulting in damage to the ovary.

Ruptured Cysts – If a cyst ruptures it can cause extreme pain along with internal bleeding. This can increase your risk of developing an infection. If a ruptured cyst is left untreated, it can cause life threatening complications.

Diagnosis of Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are often detected during a pelvic exam. If they notice any swelling, an ultrasound test or other diagnostic test may be ordered.

• Ultrasonography – An ultrasound is an imaging test that produces an image of your internal organs using sound waves. This test can help determine the size, composition (whether it is filled with fluid or solid), shape, and location of a cyst.
• CT Scan – CT scans use rotating X-ray machines and computers to produce cross section images of the ovaries, including cysts in the ovary.
• MRI – An MRI uses a magnetic field to create detailed images of the ovaries and to detect cysts.

Most cysts disappear on their own; so, immediate treatment is not always necessary. If a cyst is persists or has become larger, your doctor may run additional tests to screen for ovarian cancer.

Looking For Help With Ovarian Cysts?

Our functional medicine practitioners understand that every part of the body along with lifestyle choices and diet can impact one’s health. We will assess your hormone levels and work to balance them and reduce your chance of developing ovarian cysts.