Ovarian cysts are solid or fluid-filled sacs in an ovary or on its surface. PCOS and ovarian cysts go hand-in-hand as women with PCOS have several small cysts in their ovaries. But this does not mean that every woman with an ovarian cyst will have PCOS. There is a wide variety of ovarian cysts and PCOS is just one part of the spectrum.
What causes ovarian cysts?
Most cysts are formed during the menstrual cycle because of hormonal changes. Most of these cysts are functional, which means that they develop on the surface of the ovary, like a follicular cyst or corpus luteal cyst.
There are other cyst formations too which make the ovary polycystic (‘poly’ means many, ‘cystic’ means having cysts). This, coupled with an unhealthy lifestyle and increased hormonal imbalance, can lead to PCOS.
What is a chocolate cyst?
Another type of cyst which is a growth of lining on the surface of the ovary. These cysts are also called chocolate cysts. There are many theories for why it develops but the most common is retrograde menstruation – when your menstrual blood flows in the opposite direction.
Can it be life threatening?
Cysts can be life threatening if they get ruptured or they rotate within you. If they are malignant and spread to other parts of the body, or if they cause internal bleeding, it can be dangerous.
What are the symptoms, side effects and long term implications of a cyst?
Symptoms:
- Lower abdominal pain
- Lower back pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Irregular periods or heavy bleeding
- White discharge
- Bloating
Side effects:
- Indigestion
- Constant discomfort
- Bloating
Long term, a cyst may lead to:
- Cancer in the reproductive region of the body
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Obesity
How do I manage a cyst without surgery ?
Cysts can be managed without surgery only if the size of the cyst is less than 5 cm, or if it is asymptomatic and falls into the category of a simple cyst. In such cases, birth control pills are usually prescribed for 3-4 months and the cyst eventually dissolves.
Surgery is only necessary if the cyst is very large, if the cyst is cancerous, or if you wish to improve your fertility.
How do I recognize that I have a cyst?
Most cysts are asymptomatic and can be detected with a routine pelvic examination or ultrasound.
If you, or someone you know has been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, do not worry. With a regulated lifestyle and appropriate medical intervention, you will be fine. It is important to stay calm and face it head-on; it’s just another challenge in your life that you will get through.
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