What Causes Ovarian Cysts in Young Females?
Have you ever experienced unexplained pain in the pelvic area, or noticed any changes in your menstrual cycle and wondered what might be causing it? It is common for many women to be unaware of ovarian cysts that could be causing this seemingly unexplained problem. These fuel-filled sacs that form on or within the ovaries are surprisingly common yet rarely discussed in everyday conversations.
What causes these mysterious formations, and when should you be concerned? Whether you are experiencing symptoms or simply curious about your reproductive health, understanding ovarian cysts is an important step in taking control of your overall well being. Let’s see what young women should know about this common health condition.
Introduction to Ovarian Cysts in Young Females
What are ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the surface of an ovary. Females have two ovaries, one on each side of the uterus, and each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond. Eggs develop and mature in the ovaries and are released during monthly cycles throughout the child bearing years.
Ovarian cysts are common and often cause little to no discomfort. In most cases, they are harmless and go away on their own within a few months. However, cysts can sometimes twist or rupture, leading to serious complications.
Importance of understanding ovarian cysts in young women
It’s important for young women to understand ovarian cysts as they impact reproductive health. Regular pelvic exams and awareness of symptoms are key to catching potential issues early and ensuring overall well-being. Recognising warning signs can help prevent complications and prevent future fertility.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
Functional ovarian cysts
The most common type of ovarian cysts is a functional ovarian cyst, which is a fluid-filled sac that forms on an ovary. Younger women, especially those in their reproductive years, are more likely to develop functional ovarian cysts due to regular ovulation cycles. However, older women may develop cysts related to other underlying conditions.
Other types of ovarian cysts (dermoid cysts, endometriomas, etc.)
- Dermoid cysts: Dermoid cysts contain tissue typically found in skin,, such as hair, teeth, gland cells and even sometimes brain tissue. Most of these kinds of cysts are benign, but a histological analysis after removal is required to confirm their exact nature. Dermoid cysts are often discovered incidentally and may be mistaken for endometriomas or hemorrhagic cysts on scans. However, they are usually distinguishable as they often contain fat cells, bone fragments, or teeth. These cysts grow slowly but steadily, and can be removed through laparoscopic surgery. Removal requires careful technique to preserve ovarian tissue and fertility potential.
- Endometrioma Cysts: Endometriomas can range in size from 3cm to 20cm in diameter. When they exceed 10cm, they can cause a condition known as kissing ovaries where the cysts form both ovaries fuse. These cysts can also attach to other organs like the bowel, vagina, uterus, and bladder. The primary concern in surgery is to restore anatomy first followed by careful cyst removal. Unlike dermoid cysts, these cysts can shrink with medication, making surgery easier. However, surgery still remains the most effective option.
- Benign Serous or Mucinous Ovarian Tumours: These common tumours are usually found incidentally and do not respond to oral contraceptives or other hormonal treatments. They are easily identified via an ultrasound and can be removed through laparoscopic surgery. While they are rare, these tumours can have borderline malignant potential and should be carefully removed to avoid cyst wall spillage.
- Dysfunctional Ovulation Cysts: These cysts are very common and often resolve on their own. But if they grow larger than 5cm, they may pose a risk of twisting or torsion, which could result in the loss of the ovary. Some women may be prescribed oral contraceptives to reduce the risk of frequent cyst formation.
- Polycystic Ovaries (PCO): Polycystic ovaries are diagnosed when an ultrasound shows more than 15 follicles in an ovary. Over time, this condition can develop into polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is characterized by irregular periods, weight gain, acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and infertility.
Common Causes of Ovarian Cysts
- Hormonal imbalances and their role in cyst formation
- If estrogen and progesterone are in balance, they work together to signal the body to release an egg each month. However, an imbalance can prevent the ovary from receiving the signal to release the egg, causing the follicle to remain closed and potentially turn into an ovarian cyst.
- Fertility treatments that involve hormones to encourage ovulation can also increase the risk of developing ovarian cysts.
- For instance, the fertility drug clomiphene is linked to a higher occurrence of ovarian cysts. This is because the drug may stimulate the growth of multiple follicles, and if these follicles don’t release an egg, they can fill with fluid and form cysts.
- Other factors contributing to ovarian cyst development
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition where multiple small cysts form on the ovaries due to irregular ovulation, resulting in hormonal imbalance.
- In endometriosis, tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus and can attach to the ovaries, forming cysts known as endometriomas.
- In some cases, ovarian cysts may form during pregnancy, particularly functional cysts that develop due to hormonal changes.
- Having a history of ovarian cysts may increase the chance of developing more cysts.
- In some cases, ovarian cysts may form during pregnancy, particularly functional cysts that develop due to hormonal changes.
- Obesity has been linked to hormonal imbalances that may contribute to cyst formation, particularly in women with PCOS.
Ovarian Cyst Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts are often asymptomatic and may go unnoticed, but some signs can indicate the presence of a cyst. It’s important to be aware of these symptoms
- Pelvic pain: This can range from dulla ching to sharp sudden pain, often felt on one side of the abdomen.
- Bloating or fullness: A feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen can be a sign.
- Irregular periods; Cysts can cause changes in your menstrual cycle, such as missed or heavier periods.
- Pain during intercourse: Some women experience discomfort during sexual activity.
- Frequent urination: Larger cysts can put pressure on the bladder, leading to frequent urination.
- Nausea: Severe cysts can sometimes cause nausea, especially if they twist or rupture.
When to seek medical attention
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should contact your doctor for further tests and diagnosis.
Functional Ovarian Cysts
A functional ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on an ovary. Typically, a sac forms during ovulation to hold a maturing egg and usually disappears after the egg is released/ If the egg is not released or sac closes up after the egg is released, the sac can fill with fluid and swell. There are two types of functional ovarian cysts
- Follicular cyst: This kind of functional ovarian cyst occurs when the sac on the ovary doesn’t release an egg, causing the sac to fill with fluid and swell.
- Luteal Cyst: This type of cyst forms when the sac releases an egg but then closes and fills with fluid.
Common symptoms and treatment options for functional cysts
Functional ovarian cysts can go on their own in many cases. But some symptoms that may occur include pelvic pain, bloating, and changes in menstrual period. Nausea, vomiting, and constipation are also common symptoms of functional cysts.
Ovarian Cyst Medications
- Some of the common medications prescribed to treat ovarian cysts are pain relievers, birth control pills, and other hormonal treatments. Pain relievers include Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Acetaminophen and Morphine Sulfate.
- Birth control pills can also help prevent new ovarian cysts, but they are not effective in treating existing cysts.
- Hormonal treatments and other options
- Progestin therapy (via pills or injections) can help in regulating the menstrual cycle, especially for women with cysts linked to hormonal imbalance like those with PCOS.
- Along with pills, hormonal IUDs (Intrauterine devices) that release hormones like progestin can also prevent the growth of new cysts particularly in women with conditions like PCOS.
Ovarian Cyst Surgery
Surgery for ovarian cysts is typically considered when a cyst is large, persistent and causing symptoms or showing signs of further complications.
- Large cysts: If a cyst grows larger than 5-10 cm or does not go away after several months of monitoring, surgery may be recommended to remove it to prevent further complications.
- Pain and Discomfort: When cysts cause significant pain, pressure or bloating that doesn’t respond to pain medications, surgical removal may be needed.
- Rupture or Torsion: In cases where the cyst bursts or twists, it can cause severe pain and other serious complications like internal bleeding. Immediate surgery is needed to address these emergencies.
- Suspected Cancer: If a cyst appears to have abnormal characteristics. like rapid growth or irregular borders or if there’s a concern about ovarian cancer, surgery may be performed to remove the cyst and perform a biopsy for further diagnosis.
Types of surgeries performed for cyst removal
- Laparoscopy is the most common and least invasive procedure for removing ovarian cysts. A small incision is made in the abdomen, and a laparoscopy is inserted to guide the surgeon in removing the cyst. Laparoscopy has a shorter recovery period and less scarring.
- Laparotomy or open surgery is performed in cases where the cyst is large and complex or if there is a concern of ovarian cancer. The procedure involves making a larger incision in the abdomen to remove the cyst.
- Oophorectomy or ovary remover is considered if a cyst is recurrent or large and there is a risk of ovarian cancer. The affected ovary, in this case, is removed entirely. In some cases, both have to be removed. If one is removed, fertility may remain unaffected as opposed to both ovaries being removed which can lead to premature menopause.
- Partial Oophorectomy refers to removing just the part of the ovary that is affected to the cyst and leaving the rest of the ovary intact.
- Cystectomy is a procedure where only the cyst is removed and the healthy ovarian tissue is preserved. This can help maintain fertility for women who wish for future conception.
Ovarian Cyst Home Remedies
Treatment for ovarian cysts can include natural remedies. Unless the cysts are large, doctors recommend waiting and watching how they progress. This means that monitoring the cyst over time to observe any changes is essential. Some home treatments that is often recommended are:
- Massage: Ovarian cysts cause muscle tension around the affected area, especially during menstruation. Massaging the lower back, thighs, buttocks and stomach can help relax muscles and reduce pain.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve overall health and may help manage ovarian cyst symptoms. Studies have shown that exercise, along with dietary changes, can significantly reduce PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) symptoms. Yoga, in particular, can help ease muscle tension, reduce pain, and lower the risk of cyst formation.
- Heat Therapy: Applying heat to affected areas can increase blood flow, reduce muscle soreness, and alleviate pain.
- Relaxation Techniques: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate pain, so relaxation techniques may be helpful. Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, and mindfulness can help reduce anxiety and relieve pain intensity.
- Weight Loss: For some individuals with PCOS, losing weight may help regulate hormones and alleviate symptoms, including pain and fatigue.
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): This device delivers small electrical pulses to nerves to alter their pain response. This therapy may provide relief from both menstrual and ovarian cyst pain.
Prevention and Management of Ovarian Cysts
To reduce the risk of ovarian cysts, lifestyle changes that can be beneficial.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help maintain healthy weight and regulate hormone levels which may prevent cyst formation. Along with this regular exercise, stress management also helps reduce the risk of developing cysts. Reducing consumption of foods high in saturated fats can help maintain hormone levels and overall reproductive health.
Routine pelvic exams, ultrasounds, and hormonal assessments can help track cyst growth. Early detection allows for timely intervention, reducing risks and ensuring appropriate treatment, especially for women with a history of ovarian issues.
Conclusion
Ovarian cysts are common in young females and often resolve on their own without causing major issues. However, understanding the causes, types, and symptoms of ovarian cysts is essential for early detection and appropriate treatment. Regular monitoring, lifestyle changes, and timely medical intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. If left untreated or if they grow large, ovarian cysts can lead to more serious health concerns, including fertility issues. By being proactive in understanding ovarian health and recognizing the warning signs, young women can take steps toward maintaining their reproductive well-being.
FAQ’s
1. What are some of the common symptoms of ovarian cysts?
Symptoms may include pelvic pain, bloating, irregular periods, pain during intercourse and nausea. However, many cysts may be asymptomatic.
2. Can ovarian cysts affect fertility?
In most cases, cysts do not affect fertility. However, large or persistent cysts may require treatment to preserve reproductive health.
3. When should I seek help for an ovarian cyst?
If you experience severe pain,, bloating, or changes in your menstruation cycle, consult a doctor for further evaluation.