Overview
During your cycle, a tiny sac called a follicle forms around an egg in your ovary. Ideally, this sac breaks open to release the egg. But sometimes, it doesn’t! This trapped fluid can then form a cyst on or inside the ovary.
Most ovarian cysts are harmless and disappear on their own within a few months. However, some may cause symptoms like irregular periods, pain during intimacy, or bowel issues.
The good news? Many cysts don’t require treatment. But if they persist, options like birth control pills or surgery are available.
Types of Ovary Cyst / Here's a breakdown of cyst types:
- Functional Cysts: These are the most common type, forming naturally during your cycle and typically disappearing on their own.
- Pathological Cysts: Less common, these cysts develop due to abnormal cell growth.
While most cysts are non-cancerous, the risk increases after menopause. Endometriosis can also contribute to cyst formation.
Ovarian Cyst Symptoms: When to Seek Help
Most ovarian cysts don’t cause any problems and go unnoticed. However, if the cyst ruptures, grows large, or blocks blood flow, you might experience symptoms like:
- Pelvic pain: This can range from a dull ache to a sudden, sharp pain.
- Bowel and bladder issues: Difficulty emptying your bowels, frequent urination.
- Changes in menstruation: Heavy, irregular, or lighter periods than usual.
- Bloating and abdominal swelling
- Early satiety: Feeling full after eating a small amount.
- Difficulty getting pregnant: While fertility is often unaffected, cysts can sometimes cause issues.
- Painful sex
Treatment Options: Making the Right Choice
The need for treatment depends on several factors:
- Menopausal status: Postmenopausal women have a slightly higher risk of ovarian cancer in cysts.
- Cyst size and appearance
- Symptoms present
Surgical Approaches: Laparoscopy and Laparotomy
If treatment is necessary, two surgical techniques are commonly employed:
- Laparoscopy: This minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions in the abdomen. Gas is used to inflate the pelvic area, allowing access to the ovaries with a laparoscope (a tiny camera). The cyst is then removed through the incisions. This is the preferred method for most cysts.
- Laparotomy: If the cyst is very large or potentially cancerous, a laparotomy might be recommended. This involves a single, larger abdominal incision for better access. The entire cyst or ovary may be removed for further analysis.
Both procedures are usually performed under general anesthesia. Recovery times and pain management plans will vary depending on the chosen method.
Recovery Timeline:
- Healing is unique for everyone. You may experience abdominal pain initially, but it should improve within days.
- After a laparotomy (larger incision), returning to normal activities might take 4-6 weeks.
Test Results:
Expect pathology results within a week. Your doctor will discuss any further treatment needed based on the findings.
Fertility and Surgery:
- Ovarian cysts rarely prevent pregnancy, but can sometimes create challenges.
- During surgery, preserving fertility is a priority. This might involve removing only the cyst or one ovary.
- In rare cases, removing both ovaries might be necessary, impacting egg production. Explore options like donor egg programs or surrogacy with your doctor.