Health Square: What You Need To Know About Ovarian Cysts page 1

ore than any other organ in the body, the ovary has the capacity to form a large number and variety of cysts. In fact, the ovarian function of producing hormones and releasing eggs is directly linked to the formation of cysts. An ovarian cyst is a sac or pouch that develops in or on the ovary, often during ovulation. The contents of the cyst are usually liquid, but can also be solid or a mixture of liquid and solid materials. Although ovarian cysts are usually small (about the size of a pea or a kidney bean), they can become the size of a softball—or even larger. Large ovarian cysts are quite remarkable considering that the ovary itself is only about the size of a walnut.

Ovarian cysts are very common, and because most of them do result from changes in the normal function of the ovary, rather than from “new growths” or tumors, the vast majority are non­cancerous. Although they are most prevalent in women of childbearing age, ovarian cysts can occur in girls and women of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. You can develop a single cyst or multiple cysts.

Warning Signs of An Ovarian Cyst

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Because there are many different kinds of ovarian cysts, and because their size and number may vary, they can cause a variety of symptoms. On the other hand, many cause no symptoms at all and may first be discovered during a routine gynecological exam, as your doctor examines the size and shape of your ovaries.

Pain

Abdominal pain is often the first indicator of an ovarian cyst. If the cyst is large, you may have pain, or a feeling of pressure or heaviness in the lower abdomen. Ovarian cysts can often bring on lower abdominal pain during intercourse. Another possible cause of pain is a process called “torsion,” in which the stem that forms on some cysts becomes twisted, stopping the normal flow of blood and causing intense bursts of pain. If a cyst ruptures, this too can cause severe lower abdominal pain along with weakness, nausea and vomiting. Any of these pains may be severe enough to bring you to the emergency room or to your doctor, and may be the first time you learn you have a cyst.

Cysts can cause other, less daunting symptoms. For example, a cyst can press on the rectum, causing constipation, or on the bladder, creating an urge to urinate. Don't ignore these lesser symptoms. They could also be signs of a gastrointestinal disturbance or a bladder infection. Severe abdominal pain itself could also be due to appendicitis, an infection in the uterus or fallopian tubes, or an ectopic pregnancy.

Irregular Periods and Infertility

Occasionally ovarian cysts do cause irregular periods, particularly in a condition called polycystic ovaries in which the hormonal system that regulates the ovaries is disturbed, causing them to form a large number of cysts. More frequently, however, menstrual irregularities are due to other conditions, such as pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid problems.

Some women who have trouble becoming pregnant also have polycystic ovaries, but this problem is only one of many possible reasons for infertility. If you are having difficulty becoming pregnant, speak with your regular ob­gyn or with an infertility specialist. (For more information see chapter 18, “Overcoming Infertility: Tactics and Techniques.”)

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