An ovarian cyst consists of a sac filled with fluid that can be present in or on an ovary.
Normal types are called functional cysts.
These are formed when the normal follicle that matures to release an egg does not shrink after ovulation.
They are soft, consist of thin membrane walls, and contain clear fluid.
They shrink after awhile, normally in about one to three months.
In case you have the functional type then your doctor may decide to follow this condition with frequent examinations in one to three months in order to ensure that they have gotten smaller.
This condition can cause a sense of fullness with or without the presence of swelling in the lower abdomen.
There can be a dull pelvic pain.
Sometimes they may rupture and cause a sharp pain and a brownish vaginal discharge can be seen.
In addition, there are other rare benign kindss including dermoid, endometrionas, and cystadenoma.
Symptoms Most of the ovarian cysts do not cause any symptom.
However, when the cyst becomes twisted, it may cause pain in the lower abdominal region.
Some cysts may rupture and release fluid in the abdomen.
This fluid may irritate the lining of the abdomen and cause pain.
Large cysts, on the other hand, may cause pressure in the abdomen.
It is very important to keep in mind that most ovarian cysts do not cause any symptom, so if you know you have cysts then consult your doctor.
Diagnosis The doctor will ask about the symptoms and medical history.
The doctor will then perform a pelvic examination.
If the doctor suspects that the cysts may be present, he may do a pelvic ultrasound.
This test is done to determine the type and size of the cyst and the kind of treatment needed.
In addition, other tests may be performed in case the cyst does not go away after several menstrual cycles or becomes larger and painful.
Other tests include Laparoscopy and blood test for protein CA-125.
Treatment Treatment of a cyst depends on various factors including the age, menstrual status, size and type of cyst and symptoms, if any.
The doctor first waits for two to three months to see if the cyst goes away naturally.
In case of functional cyst, the doctor may suggest you take birth control pills to check the menstrual cycle.
However, if the cyst is causing pain and discomfort, the doctor may prescribe pain medication.
Laparoscopic Surgery This surgery is recommended to remove the cyst if the cyst grows larger than two inches in size, causes persistent pain, lasts longer than 2-3 months, and disrupts blood flow.
Prevention Normally, ovarian cysts are painless and benign.
It is however, important to catch cysts early and see the doctor and tell him about any changes in your menstrual period.
Also report if you have pelvic or abdominal pain.