Ovarian Cysts are sac-like closed structures that are within the ovary and these cysts are generally filled with semi solid or liquid substance. These cysts form due to a number of reasons. Even though, in most of the cases these cysts do not cause any symptoms, pain in the pelvis or abdomen is the most common symptom. Here are some details women should know about these cysts:
What is ovary and what are these cysts?
The ovary is the couple of reproductive glands in women and they are located in pelvic area with one located on each side. Each ovary will be in the size of a walnut and these ovaries are responsible for production of hormones called as progesterone and estrogen. The ovaries are the important source of female hormone that takes care of the development of the characteristics of female body like body hair, shape and breasts. They are also responsible for pregnancy and menstrual cycle. Ovary is otherwise referred to as female gonad.
In most women, these cysts remain unnoticed and they go away on their own without causing any signs or symptoms. As mentioned earlier, pain in abdomen or pelvic area is the common symptom. This pain when:
• Cyst ruptures
• There is rapid growth or stretching of cyst
• There is bleeding
• There is a winding of the cyst around the blood supply
When the size increases, it can cause other symptoms like upset stomach, bloating, fullness of stomach immediately after eating a small amount of meals, urgency to urinate, pain during lovemaking and difficulty in bowel movements.
How are these cysts diagnosed?Your health care provider might notice the cyst during a physical pelvic examination. If the doctor suspects, imaging techniques may be suggested for diagnosing and in most of the cases, ultrasound scanning technique is used for detecting. This is a harmless and pain less method for diagnosing cysts. CT or MRI scan can also be suggested. When the presence of cyst is diagnosed, a blood examination called as CA-125 will be suggested to ensure that it is not cancerous.