By 
The ovaries can develop fluid-filled cysts. Most ovarian cysts do not cause any symptoms. However, some can lead to pelvic discomfort as well as bleeding, bloating and other unpleasant side effects.
Women often wonder if ovarian cysts need medical treatment, or if they will resolve themselves. Do not hesitate to book an appointment with Darin Swainston MD if you are concerned about ovarian cysts.
Our board-certified provider team is specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of problematic ovarian cysts. Our goal is to inform our patients on this condition, so they know when to seek medical attention.
Learn what you should know about ovarian cysts, including whether or not they will ever disappear on their own.
Ovarian Cysts 101
There are many reasons why you can develop ovarian Cysts. These cysts are caused by your normal reproductive cycle. When one of your ovaries releases a fertilized egg during ovulation a natural cyst called a Functional Cyst forms. These cysts shouldn’t be a cause for concern.
On occasion, a cyst can develop on your ovary, but it does not release an egg. This is known as a follicular cyst. Women can develop ovarian cysts outside their normal menstrual cycles.
Sometimes, these cysts do not pose any health concerns. Sometimes, however, they can cause serious health problems. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), for example, can affect your fertility and health.
There are many possible causes of ovarian cysts. Most common are hormone imbalances and infections.
Signs and symptoms of ovarian cysts
The majority of women will not know if they have an ovarian cyst. Most often, ovarian cancers are discovered during a pelvic examination.
Some ovarian cysts can cause painful or uncomfortable symptoms. Take a look below at the most common symptoms associated with ovarian cysts.
Bloating or pelvic pressure
The ovaries can cause pressure and bloating in the lower abdomen. The symptoms may be intermittent or constant. They can last until the cyst is gone.
You may experience pain in your back, side or thighs
You may experience pain on the side of your ovary that is affected by the cyst. The intensity of this pain can be different. The pain may be sharp or dull. Some ovarian tumors can cause dull pain or ache in your lower back, thighs or hips.
Pain during intercourse
Sexual intercourse can be painful if you have ovarian cysts. You should also be aware that other gynecological issues, such as prolapse, inflammation and infection, can cause painful sexual experiences. Darin Swainston MD will want to know about your symptoms. FACOG.
Urinary or bowel symptoms
Ovarian cysts may cause unpleasant bathroom symptoms. They can, for example, make you feel like you need to urinate a lot more. Ovarian cysts can cause bowel movement changes for some women.
Abnormal bleeding
Some ovarian cysts can cause abnormal uterine bleeding. You might bleed or spot between periods. Sometimes, this bleeding can be accompanied by pain and cramps.
Remember that some of the symptoms associated with ovarian cysts may also be caused by other gynecological disorders. Schedule an appointment with Darin Swainston MD. If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact FACOG immediately.
How to resolve ovarian cysts
Most of the times, ovarian cysts will go away by themselves without needing medical attention. You can manage mild symptoms at home by using over-the-counter medications and rest.
You may experience painful symptoms if your ovarian cyst has ruptured.
A cyst can rupture from intense physical activity such as sex, or even vigorous exercise. Many women do not experience symptoms when an ovarian cyst ruptures or only notice mild signs.
Women with severe pain or bleeding or other symptoms should seek medical attention as soon as they can. Ovarian cysts may require urgent surgery in rare cases.
Call Darin Swainston MD. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call FACOG immediately or visit an emergency provider.
- Fever and nausea with pain
- Dizziness or weakness with pain
- Unexpected bleeding and pain
- Pain with rapid breathing
Remember that ovarian cysts do not usually constitute a medical crisis. When you need medical attention for ovarian cysts, the treatment usually involves watching to see if the cyst disappears and taking medications (e.g. hormone-based contraception).
Your Darin Swainston MD can help you with cysts that do not resolve by themselves and cause symptoms that are problematic. Your FACOG provider might recommend minimally-invasive surgery to remove cysts.
Comments