Ovarian cyst

Fluid-filled sac within the ovary

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or within an ovary. These cysts are relatively common and can occur in women of all ages. While most ovarian cysts are benign and resolve on their own, some may cause symptoms or require treatment.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts can be classified into several types, based on their origin and characteristics:

Functional Cysts

Functional cysts are the most common type of ovarian cysts and are related to the menstrual cycle. They include:

• Follicular cysts: These occur when the follicle, a small sac that contains an egg, does not rupture and release the egg during ovulation. Instead, it continues to grow.
• Corpus luteum cysts: After the follicle releases the egg, it transforms into the corpus luteum, which can sometimes fill with fluid and form a cyst.

Pathological Cysts

Pathological cysts are less common and may require medical intervention. They include:

• Dermoid cysts: Also known as teratomas, these cysts can contain various types of tissues such as hair, skin, or teeth.
• Cystadenomas: These are benign tumors that develop from ovarian tissue and can be filled with a watery or mucous material.
• Endometriomas: These cysts form as a result of endometriosis, where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus and attaches to the ovary.

Symptoms

Many ovarian cysts are asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally during a pelvic examination or imaging study. However, some cysts can cause symptoms such as:

• Pelvic pain or discomfort
• Bloating or abdominal swelling
• Pain during intercourse
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder

Diagnosis

Ovarian cysts are often diagnosed through:

• Pelvic examination: A physical exam to check for swelling or tenderness in the pelvic area.
• Ultrasound: An imaging test that uses sound waves to create a picture of the ovaries and detect cysts.
• Blood tests: To measure hormone levels or check for markers that may indicate cancer.

Treatment

The treatment of ovarian cysts depends on several factors, including the size and type of the cyst, the patient's age, and symptoms. Options include:

• Watchful waiting: Many cysts resolve on their own and may only require regular monitoring.
• Medication: Hormonal contraceptives can help regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent the formation of new cysts.
• Surgery: If a cyst is large, persistent, or causes significant symptoms, surgical removal may be necessary. This can be done through laparoscopy or laparotomy.

Complications

While most ovarian cysts are benign, complications can occur, such as:

• Ovarian torsion: A cyst can cause the ovary to move from its usual position, potentially twisting and cutting off its blood supply.
• Rupture: A cyst can burst, leading to severe pain and internal bleeding.

Prevention

While it is not always possible to prevent ovarian cysts, regular pelvic examinations and monitoring of symptoms can help detect them early. Hormonal contraceptives may also reduce the risk of developing new cysts.

Related pages

• Ovary
• Menstrual cycle
• Endometriosis
• Polycystic ovary syndrome