Ovarian Cyst
What is it?
An ovarian cyst is a sac (like a blister) that may grow on an ovary. The sac usually contains fluid, but may sometimes have blood or tissue in it. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and go away without treatment in a few months. However, some cysts can grow large and cause problems. The cyst may even rupture (break open). Ovarian cysts are usually not a form of cancer.
What are ovaries?
The ovaries are two small organs in your lower abdomen (belly). Each ovary contains female sex cells, or eggs. During child-bearing years, your ovaries make and release an egg each month. This is called ovulation (ov-u-LAY-shun). Right before ovulation, your ovary forms a follicle, or fluid-filled blister that has an egg inside. During ovulation, the follicle breaks open and allows the egg to go down the fallopian tube and into the uterus. If the egg is fertilized (mixes) with a man's sperm, you may become pregnant. If it is not fertilized, you will have your monthly period.
What causes ovarian cysts?
Most ovarian cysts form during or after ovulation. A cyst may form if the follicle does not break open to release the egg. A cyst may form if the follicle opens to release the egg, but then closes and collects fluid. Other cysts are caused by endometriosis (tissue from the uterus grows in your ovaries). Cysts may also form if your hormones are out of balance. Other cysts form for unknown reasons.
What are the signs and symptoms of ovarian cysts?
Most cysts are found during a regular pelvic (internal) checkup by your caregiver. You may not feel anything or know that you have a cyst. You may have one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
Bad pain in your lower abdomen and pelvic area. The pain may be sharp and sudden or a dull ache.
Fullness and swelling in your lower abdomen or back.
Infertility (not able to get pregnant).
Late or painful periods. You may also have small amounts of bleeding between your periods, called spotting.
Lower abdominal or pelvic pain during intercourse (sex).
Nausea (sick to your stomach) or vomiting (throwing up).
How are ovarian cysts diagnosed and treated?
Your caregiver may do an ultrasound (test using sound waves) to look at your ovaries. You may need to have blood drawn for tests. Blood tests may include hormone levels, CA-125 (cancer test), and a pregnancy test. Your treatment will depend on things such as your age, test results, and the kind of cyst. Your caregiver may wait to see if your ovarian cyst will go away without treatment. You may be given hormone medicine, such as birth control pills. This medicine may help to control your periods, shrink a cyst, and prevent new cysts from forming. You may need surgery to have the cyst removed.
