Ovarian Cyst, Types, Symptoms and Treatment

What is Ovarian Cyst?

The ovaries are basically part of the reproductive systems in females and are located in the lower abdomen on both sides of the uterus.  Women have two ovaries that produce eggs as well as the hormones progesterone and estrogen.  

At times, it may happen that a fluid-filled sac called a cyst may develop on one of the ovaries. Many women have experienced this at least once during their lifetime. Usually, In most cases, the cysts that are formed over the ovaries are painless and show no symptoms. 

Types of ovarian cysts

Ovarian cysts have many types to mention, such as dermoid cysts and endometrioma cysts. However, functional cysts are the most common type in women. Functional cysts include two types i.e. follicle and corpus luteum cysts.

Follicle cyst

The follicle is a sac where an egg grows, during a woman’s menstrual cycle. This sac is situated in the interior of ovaries. Generally in most cases what happens is, this follicle(sac) breaks open and releases an egg. In case if the follicle doesn’t break open, the fluid which is inside the follicle can form a cyst on the ovary.

Corpus luteum cysts

Follicle sacs have a tendency to typically dissolve after releasing an egg. However, in case the sac doesn’t dissolve and the opening of the follicle seals, additional fluid can develop inside the sac. This accumulation of fluid leads to a corpus luteum cyst.

Symptoms of an ovarian cyst

It is difficult to recognize the occurrence of it, as often times, ovarian cysts do not cause any symptoms. However, some of the symptoms can appear as the cyst grows and they may include;

1. Nausea and vomiting

2. Abdominal bloating or swelling

3. Painful bowel movements

4. Painful intercourse

5. Pelvic pain before or during the menstrual cycle

6. Pain in the lower back or thighs

Some of the severe symptoms that may require immediate medical attention are;

1. Rapid and fast breathing

2. Fever

3. Feeling dizzy

4. Severe pelvic pain

These symptoms can indicate a ruptured cyst or an ovarian torsion. Both complications can lead to serious outcomes if the treatment is delayed.

For more information on Ovarian Cyst Treatment, watch the following video by 

Dr. Neeraj Pahlajani- (OBSTETRICIAN & INFERTILITY SPECIALIST)