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The ovaries are the reproductive organs in women that are in the pelvis. One ovary is on each side of the uterus, and each is about the size of a walnut. The ovaries produce eggs and the hormones like estrogen and progesterone. The ovaries are the principal source of female hormones that control the development of breasts, body form, and body hair. It regulates the menstrual cycle and pregnancy too.
Ovarian cysts are fluid-crammed sacs that grow inside or on top of 1 (or both) ovaries. A cyst is a generic term used to explain a fluid-stuffed structure. Ovarian cysts are typically asymptomatic; however, pain in the abdomen or pelvis is common. There are different kinds of cysts, which are normal and harmless (benign). Functional cysts, which are not disease-related, arise due to ovulation (the discharge of an egg from the ovary). Without specific treatment, functional cysts generally decrease over time, typically within 60 days.
What are the symptoms of Ovarian Cysts?
Smaller cysts have no symptoms. In these cases, it is difficult even to recognize the presence of a cyst. Large cysts may cause the following symptoms:
- Pelvic pain or dull pain in the back.
- Pain at some point of intercourse.
- Breast pain
- Painful periods.
- Inability to empty the bladder completely
- A feeling of fullness (bloating) in the lower stomach.
- Unusual bleeding
Some prolonged signs and symptoms may be related to a condition referred to as polycystic ovary syndrome. This condition causes irregular periods and other hormone-related problems, including weight problems and infertility. Other signs of polycystic ovary syndrome encompass hirsutism (increased growth of body hair) and the issue of losing weight.
How are Ovarian Cysts diagnosed?
The doctor will first rule out pregnancy as the reason for the signs and symptoms. They then may additionally use the subsequent tests to diagnose an ovarian cyst:
- Pelvic examination: During this examination, the physician uses a device to widen the vagina, which allows the doctor to take a look at the vagina, cervix, and uterus. The doctor also physically examines the reproductive organs for lumps or abnormal changes.
- Ultrasound: In this test, sound waves are used to create images of the internal organs. It can also detect cysts at the ovaries.
- Blood tests: These tests are required to measure the levels of certain hormones in the blood.
The doctor may propose removing the cyst if it is large and would not seem like a functional cyst, and is developing, through two or three menstrual cycles, or causes pain. Some cysts may be removed without removing the ovary (ovarian cystectomy). In a few instances, the doctor may advise removing the affected ovary and leaving the other intact (oophorectomy).
Laparoscopic Cystectomy:
In this surgery, the doctor uses a small device that has a camera attached to it called the laparoscope and is inserted via an incision inside the abdomen. They view the reproductive organs and pelvic cavity using the device. If a cyst is diagnosed, it can be removed.
