During a woman’s reproductive life cycle there are a number of changes she may experience that may or may not represent something more serious. Among them, it is possible to highlight the cysts in the ovary, which are more common than imagined.
Most of the time, the problem may be quite simple, but others need further investigation, depending, for example, on the size of the cyst, the material within it, and the clinical history.
Women who have the family history of cysts, as well as those who use drugs to induce ovulation are part of the group at greater risk for the development of this disorder.
WHAT IS THE CYSTS IN THE OVARY?
Cysts are nothing more than pockets full of fluid and can appear anywhere, including inside the ovaries.
Most of them are usually benign and bear a direct relation to the menstrual cycle.
There are several types of cysts, some tend to disappear over time, but there are cases that require surgical intervention.
SYMPTOMS OF OVARIAN CYSTS
The most common symptoms of ovarian cysts are localized pains, especially in the pelvic region. In this case, the pain may be mild and constant, or it may be sudden and intense. In the latter case, it may indicate that the cyst has ruptured or been twisted.
In addition, a woman with a cyst in the ovary may experience pain when she is evacuated, during intercourse, while moving, and during the menstrual period.
It is also possible to notice an unusual swelling in the abdomen, in addition to episodes of nausea, bleeding, and menstrual irregularities.
OVARIAN CYST TREATMENT
With regard to treatments, everything will depend on the particular case, the type of cyst and the size of it.
Often the cyst regresses alone, and no intervention is required. However, it may be necessary to resort to surgery or use medications, such as birth control, to prevent new cysts in the next menstrual cycles.
The cases requiring surgical procedure are few. Doctors only resort to it if there is no other option.
In that sense, very large cysts that are growing or have no relation to the menstrual cycle may need surgery.
When inside the cyst there is solid material in addition to the fluid, the specialist may need to investigate better as it may be a sign of ovarian cancer.
Ovarian Cancer
A simple pelvic examination already indicates the presence of the cyst, but the doctor may still request ultrasonography, laparoscopy and some blood tests.
THE POLARISTIC OVARY
It is worth remembering that there are women who have the so-called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, a hormonal disorder that causes changes in the size of the ovaries, producing small cysts inside it, besides menstrual irregularities, among other symptoms.
TYPES OF OVARIAN CYSTS
The cysts that appear on the ovaries are different.
The most common are the so-called functional cysts, which are directly related to the menstrual period and which tend to disappear spontaneously.
The other types are more complicated because they can mean abnormal growth of cells, the presence of nodules and problems such as endometriosis.
Find below the differences between them:
Follicular Cyst
It is a functional cyst. It occurs when the woman does not ovulate. In this case, a small cyst is formed, which usually recedes in the following month, without major consequences.
Cyst of the Corpus Luteum
If the egg has been released from the follicle – which is the space where the ovum develops – and the woman does not become pregnant, the corpus luteum can appear, which usually contains a small amount of blood and is also common and simple resolution.
Hemorrhagic Cyst
It happens when there is a complication of the corpus luteum. In this case, it is necessary to operate, because there was rupture of the cyst and release of blood into the abdominal cavity, which causes a lot of pain. It can still get stuck inside the ovary or suffer from twisting.
Dermoid Cyst
It has no relation to the menstrual period and usually occurs as a result of the disordered growth of cells in the body. Within this type of cell, there may be materials such as teeth, bones, and hair. It is considered a benign tumor and requires intervention because it can cause infections and other complications.
Adenomas
They are not cysts, but nodules, which contain greasy, dense material and may grow or not. In some cases, surgery may be indicated as there is a risk of torsion.
Endometrioma
They occur as a result of endometriosis, which is when the walls lining the uterus loosen from the uterine cavity, causing symptoms such as menstrual irregularities and even infertility. In endometrioma, the endometrial tissue loosens and can encapsulate and produce a cyst in the ovary.
LOOK FOR A DOCTOR
If you experience some of the symptoms reported, consult a doctor to have them investigate the case.
As mentioned, most often, ovarian cysts are common and do not have major complications; but there are still situations of risk, which may indicate more serious diseases.
It is also important to always follow the gynecological health to prevent further damage to health if the cysts are not functional.
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