Ovarian cysts
Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts (/oʊˈvɛəriən sɪsts/) are fluid-filled sacs or pockets in an ovary or on its surface. Women have two ovaries — each about the size and shape of an almond — on each side of the uterus. Eggs (ova), which develop and mature in the ovaries, are released in monthly cycles during the childbearing years.
Etymology
The term "Ovarian cysts" is derived from the Latin ovarium meaning "egg" or "nut", and the Greek kystis meaning "bladder" or "pouch".
Types of Ovarian Cysts
There are several types of ovarian cysts, including:
- Follicular cyst: This is the most common type of ovarian cyst. It occurs when the follicle that normally releases an egg does not open.
- Corpus luteum cyst: This type of cyst forms if the sac doesn't dissolve. Instead, the sac seals off after the egg is released. Then fluid can build up inside it.
- Dermoid cysts: These are also called teratomas. They can contain tissue, such as hair, skin or teeth, because they form from embryonic cells.
- Cystadenomas: These cysts form on the surface of the ovary. They can be filled with a watery or a mucous material.
- Endometriomas: These cysts develop in women who have endometriosis. This happens when the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside of the uterus.
Symptoms
Most ovarian cysts present little or no discomfort and are harmless. However, a large ovarian cyst can cause:
- Pelvic pain — a dull or sharp ache in the lower abdomen on the side of the cyst
- Fullness or heaviness in your abdomen
- Bloating
Treatment
Treatment options for ovarian cysts include:
- Watchful waiting: In many cases, you can wait and be re-examined to see if the cyst goes away on its own within a few months. This is typically an option — regardless of your age — if you have no symptoms and an ultrasound shows you have a simple, small, fluid-filled cyst.
- Surgery: Your doctor might suggest removing a cyst that is large, doesn't look like a functional cyst, is growing, continues through two or three menstrual cycles, or causes pain.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ovarian cysts
- Wikipedia's article - Ovarian cysts
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