What is it?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac or pocket (cyst) within or on the surface of an ovary. Many women will develop at least one cyst during their lifetime.
What are the symptoms?
They’re very common and don’t usually cause any symptoms. In most cases, cysts are painless and cause no symptoms. They only cause symptoms if it ruptures, grows in size, or blocks the blood supply to the ovaries. In these cases, you may have:
- Pelvic pain – this can range from a dull, heavy sensation to a sudden, severe and sharp pain.
- Pain during sex.
- Difficulty emptying your bowels, painful bowel movements.
- A frequent need to urinate.
- Heavy periods, irregular periods or lighter periods than normal and pelvic pain before or during the menstrual cycle.
- Abdominal bloating or swelling.
- Feeling very full after only eating a little.
- Difficulty getting pregnant – although fertility is unaffected in most women with ovarian cysts.
- Pain in the lower back or thighs.
- Breast tenderness.
- Nausea and vomiting.
Severe symptoms (In case of ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion) include:
- Severe or sharp pelvic pain.
- Fever.
- Faintness or dizziness.
- Rapid breathing.
What to expect?
Seek immediate medial help if you have been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst and:
- you suddenly get severe abdominal pain.
Things you can discuss with your doctor if you have been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst:
- What treatment options do you have? which one is best suited for you? Keep in mind that not all ovarian cysts need treatment.