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In general, the appearance of cysts in the ovaries does not cause symptoms and does not need specific treatment, as they usually disappear spontaneously. However, when the cyst grows a lot, ruptures, or when it gets twisted in the ovary, symptoms such as pain in the abdomen and irregular menstruation can appear, which can worsen during ovulation, intimate contact or due to bowel movements.
The ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled pouch that can form inside or around the ovary and that can result in pain, delayed menstruation or difficulty in getting pregnant, for example. Understand what it is and what the main types of ovarian cyst are.
Symptoms of ovarian cyst
The ovarian cyst is usually asymptomatic, but if any changes are noticed, it is important to consult the doctor to investigate the possibility of the presence of cyst. Check the possibility of having an ovarian cyst by performing the following test:
- 1. Constant abdominal or pelvic pain No Yes
- 2. Frequent feeling of bloated belly No Yes
- 3. Irregular menstruation No Yes
- 4. Constant pain in the back or flanks No Yes
- 5. Discomfort or pain during intimate contact No Yes
In addition to these symptoms, there may also be:
- Pain during the ovulatory period;
- Delayed menstruation;
- Increased breast sensitivity;
- Bleeding outside the menstrual period;
- Difficulty getting pregnant;
- Weight gain, due to hormonal changes that also occur;
- Nausea and vomiting.
Symptoms usually arise when the cyst grows, ruptures, or sprains, resulting in severe pain. Symptoms can also vary according to the type of cyst, so it is necessary to go to the gynecologist for tests to diagnose the presence, size and severity of the cyst.
The cysts most likely to rupture or twist are those measuring more than 8 cm. In addition, a woman who is able to conceive with a large cyst has a greater chance of torsion, between 10 and 12 weeks, because the growth of the uterus can push the ovary, which results in torsion.
It is important that the woman who has been diagnosed with ovarian cyst, goes to the hospital whenever she has abdominal pain accompanied by fever, vomiting, fainting, bleeding or increased respiratory rate, as it may indicate that the cyst is increasing in size or that there has been a rupture , and the treatment should start immediately afterwards.
How is the diagnosis
The diagnosis of ovarian cyst is made by the gynecologist initially based on the evaluation of the signs and symptoms presented by the woman. Then tests should be indicated to confirm the presence of the cyst and indicate its size and characteristics.
Thus, a pelvic palpation and image exams such as transvaginal ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging can be performed by the doctor.
In some cases, the doctor may also request a pregnancy test, the beta-HCG, to exclude the possibility of ectopic pregnancy, which has the same symptoms, and also helps to identify the type of cyst that the woman has.
How the treatment is done
Treatment for the ovarian cyst is not always necessary, and should be recommended by the gynecologist according to the size, characteristics of the cyst, symptoms and age of the woman so that the best form of treatment is indicated.
When the cyst does not present malignant characteristics and does not cause symptoms, treatment is usually not indicated, and the woman must be monitored periodically to check the reduction of the cyst.
On the other hand, when symptoms are identified, the doctor may recommend the use of a contraceptive pill with estrogen and progesterone to regulate hormone levels or the removal of the cyst through surgery. In more severe cases, when there is torsion or suspicion of malignancy, complete removal of the ovary may be indicated. Find out more details of the treatment for the ovarian cyst.
Understand the difference between cysts and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and how eating can help with treatment by watching the following video: