Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in a woman's ovaries. These cysts typically appear during a woman's childbearing years, between the ages of 20 and 40, and are often associated with the menstrual cycle.
In this article, you'll learn the symptoms, causes, and treatment of ovarian cysts. Recognizing this condition early is crucial so you can recognize the symptoms and maintain an optimal quality of life.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Symptoms of ovarian cysts generally appear when the cyst begins to enlarge or press on surrounding organs. Women experiencing this condition may experience:
- Irregular menstrual cycle.
- Painful sensations in the lower abdomen or pelvic area can appear suddenly, especially during sexual activity.
- Excessive acne appears.
- Excessive hair growth on the face or body.
Although most cysts are benign, you need to be alert if you experience the following symptoms:
- Sudden severe abdominal pain.
- Fever accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
- Dizziness, weakness, or even fainting.
- Breathing becomes rapid or short.
What Causes Ovarian Cysts?
There are several factors that can cause the formation of ovarian cysts, including:
1. Pregnancy
When a pregnancy begins, a woman's body sometimes forms cysts that play a temporary role in supporting the fetus before the placenta is formed.
Usually these cysts will disappear over time, but in some cases they can remain in the ovary until the end of pregnancy and need to be removed.
2. Genetic History
Women with a family history of ovarian cysts or ovarian cancer are at higher risk of developing similar conditions. These hereditary factors influence the body's tendency to develop cysts and other reproductive system disorders.
3. Hormonal Conditions
Medication use and hormonal disorders can trigger the development of functional cysts. These cysts are usually temporary and disappear without treatment.
4. Pelvic Infection Disorders
Severe pelvic infections that are not properly treated can spread to the ovaries and fallopian tubes, triggering the formation of cysts due to inflammation or scar tissue.
5. Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows on the ovaries. This condition can lead to the formation of endometrioma cysts, which often cause pain during menstruation or sexual intercourse.
If endometriosis is not treated properly, it can increase the risk of long-term reproductive disorders, including ovarian cancer.
How to Treat Ovarian Cysts
Before determining treatment, the doctor will first perform a diagnosis using several methods, such as ultrasound, MRI, CT scan, blood tests, and, if necessary, a biopsy. These tests help determine the type of cyst, its size, and whether it is potentially malignant.
If it is confirmed that you have an ovarian cyst, your doctor will recommend the following treatment steps:
1. Examination
In most cases, ovarian cysts are benign and don't cause serious symptoms. Therefore, patients don't always require specific treatment. However, this condition still requires regular monitoring.
Ultrasounds and blood tests can be scheduled regularly to monitor changes in the size of the cyst, whether it's shrinking, remaining the same, or enlarging. This monitoring is important because some cysts can change shape or develop into ovarian cancer.
2. Operation
If the cyst continues to enlarge, causes bothersome symptoms, or there are indications of malignancy, the doctor will consider surgery.
When surgery is needed to treat an ovarian cyst, women will usually undergo one of two surgical techniques:
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure using a special instrument equipped with a camera to remove the cyst. It's usually used if the cyst is benign and small.
- Laparotomy: An open surgical procedure performed when the cyst is large or suspected to contain cancer cells. This procedure allows for complete removal of the tissue.
When to See a Doctor?
Ovarian cysts can cause various complications, such as ovarian torsion, cyst rupture, cancer, infertility, and even diabetes and obesity. It's important for every woman to maintain her reproductive health and have regular checkups with her doctor.
Don't delay seeing a doctor if your condition shows signs of worsening. Your doctor will perform a thorough diagnosis and recommend the best treatment for your condition.
Early screening can help prevent cysts from developing into more serious problems and minimize the risk of long-term complications for women's health.
The article was written by Dr. Heryzal, Sp.OG, M. Kes (Obstetrician Specialist at EMC Cikarang Hospital).