WHAT IS AN OVARIAN CYST?

A cyst is a closed cavity or sac containing liquid or semisolid material. A cyst developing in the ovary is an Ovarian cyst. Ovarian cysts are rarely cancerous.

AFFECTS

Women of all ages.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Most produce no symptoms. Others, especially larger ones, can produce any of the following:

• Swelling without pain in the lower abdomen.
• Painful sexual intercourse.
• Stinging or burning on urination (if the cyst is pressing on the bladder).
• Difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
• Brownish vaginal discharge.
• Irregular menstruation

The following may occur if the cyst twists, bleeds or breaks (this is an emergency):

• Severe abdominal pain.
• Fever.
• Vomiting.

CAUSES

Hormone disturbance. Ovarian cysts sometimes develop during pregnancy.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Pregnancy.
• Use of hormones.

HOW TO PREVENT

Cannot be prevented at present.

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES

• Typical symptoms.
• History and physical exam--including a complete pelvic examination by a doctor.
• Pelvic ultrasonography.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Rupture of the cyst or twisting of the cyst's stalk. This requires emergency surgery.
• Urinary obstruction.

PROBABLE OUTCOME

Ovarian cysts are known to subside spontaneously. They can be aspirated through ultrasound guidance or through laparoscope. They are also curable with surgery, but may recur.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

Surgery to drain the cyst (sometimes) or to remove the ovary.

MEDICATION

Medicine is usually not necessary for this disorder. For minor discomfort, one may use OTC medicines such as Paracetamol.

ACTIVITY

No restrictions. If surgery is necessary, resume activities gradually.

DIET

No special diet.

CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR, IF

• You have typical symptoms of an ovarian cyst.
• Any of the following develops after diagnosis:
  • You lose weight for no apparent reason.
  • You generally feel sick.
  • You have pain in the lower abdomen.
  • You experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, nausea, and fever. This may indicate rupture of a cyst.