Ovarian Cyst

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Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in or on the ovaries, which are the organs responsible for producing eggs in women. They are common and can occur at any age, but they are most frequently seen in women who are still having menstrual cycles.

What Causes Ovarian Cysts?

Most ovarian cysts form as a normal part of the menstrual cycle. Here are the main types:

Follicular Cysts: These occur when the follicle (the sac that holds the egg) doesn’t release the egg during ovulation and continues to grow instead. They usually resolve on their own within a few months.
Corpus Luteum Cysts: After an egg is released, the empty follicle transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum. If it fills with fluid instead of shrinking, it forms a cyst. These can sometimes cause discomfort but often go away quickly.

Symptoms

Many ovarian cysts do not cause any symptoms and may be discovered incidentally during a routine exam. However, if symptoms do occur, they might include:

Pelvic pain: This can be sharp or dull and may come and go.
Bloating or pressure: You might feel fullness or swelling in your abdomen.
Pain during sex: Some women experience discomfort during intercourse.
Menstrual irregularities: Changes in your period can also occur.

In rare cases, if a cyst ruptures (breaks open), it can lead to sudden, severe pain and may require medical attention.

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

Severe pelvic pain
Pain accompanied by nausea or vomiting
Changes in your menstrual cycle

Treatment

Most ovarian cysts are harmless and do not require treatment. They often resolve on their own. If a cyst is large or causing problems, treatment options may include:

Monitoring: Regular check-ups to see if the cyst changes.
Medications: Birth control pills can help prevent new cysts from forming.
Surgery: In some cases, especially if there’s concern about cancer or severe symptoms, surgery may be necessary to remove the cyst.

FAQs

A chocolate cyst, also known as an ovarian endometrioma, is a type of ovarian cyst that forms when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrial tissue) grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries. This condition is associated with endometriosis, a disorder where this tissue causes pain and other complications.
Characteristics of Chocolate Cysts
Appearance: They are called “chocolate” cysts because they contain old blood that gives them a dark brown, tar-like appearance.
Formation: These cysts develop when endometrial-like tissue becomes trapped in the ovaries. When this tissue bleeds (often during menstruation), it fills the cyst with old blood.
Symptoms
Many women with chocolate cysts may not experience symptoms, but when they do, they can include:
Pelvic pain: This can be severe and may occur during menstruation or at other times.
Pain during intercourse: Discomfort can arise during sexual activity.
Heavy or irregular periods: Changes in menstrual flow may occur.
Infertility: Chocolate cysts can interfere with normal ovarian function, making it harder to conceive.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a chocolate cyst, doctors typically use:
Ultrasound: This imaging test can help identify the presence of a cyst.
Laparoscopy: In some cases, a small surgical procedure may be performed to visually inspect and possibly biopsy the cyst.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on symptoms and whether a woman wishes to preserve her fertility. Options include:
Observation: If there are no symptoms, doctors may recommend monitoring the cyst.
Hormonal therapies: Birth control pills or hormonal IUDs can help manage symptoms and prevent new cysts from forming.
Surgery: If the cyst is large or causing significant pain, surgical removal may be necessary. This is often done laparoscopically to minimise recovery time.