What are ovarian cysts? Symptoms and complications here

Written By DNA Web Team | Updated: Jan 17, 2023, 07:13 PM IST

Know what is an ovarian cyst and all about it.

Nearly 25 per cent of women of the reproductive age group in India are diagnosed with Ovarian cysts. A fluid or semisolid material-filled sac which is formed in the side ovaries is called an ovarian cyst. Ovaries are small organs that help to hold egg cells and make hormones. The size of the cysts can vary. 

Although there are generally do not show symptoms and usually disappear in a few months but if does not, they can cause some symptoms like sudden and severe pelvic pain, nausea and vomiting and even bleeding, if ruptured. 

Women who have hormonal problems, PCOS or endometriosis are at higher risk of developing ovarian cysts. Other than these, Pelvic infections, hormonal problems and even pregnancy complications can lead to ovarian cysts. However, not all of them are dangerous and some of them can be managed with ease.

Ovarian cysts: Symptoms

  • Pelvic pain or a dull ache in your back
  • A feeling of fullness (bloating) located in your lower belly may feel more pronounced on one side of your body
  • Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
  • Painful periods.

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Ovarian cyst: What are the complications?

  • Cancerous cyst: Ovarian cysts that develop after menopause are more likely to be cancerous than cysts that form before menopause.
  • Ruptured ovarian cyst: Commonly, functional cysts rupture without causing any negative symptoms. But in some cases, a ruptured cyst can result in severe pain and swelling in your belly. The larger it is, the greater likelihood it has of breaking.
  • Ovarian torsion: Sometimes a cyst can grow as big to distort the shape of the ovary, increasing the likelihood that it will twist. The twisting can prevent blood flow to your ovary, causing it to die.