Ovarian cysts are growths, like blisters, that sometimes
appear on the ovaries (the two small organs in the lower
abdomen that hold eggs). Ovarian cysts are common in young
women. They are usually small and go away by themselves.
However, they sometimes grow large and cause problems. Ovarian
cysts are usually NOT a form of
cancer.
Cause
The cysts tend to appear when too
much of a hormone called estrogen is put out by the
ovary.
Signs/Symptoms
Many cysts cause no symptoms--you
may not feel anything or even know that you have a cyst. Larger
cysts can cause a dull ache or a feeling of fullness (bloating)
in the lower belly or back. Sometimes the cysts make sex
painful, or disrupt your regular periods. Cysts also may make
your periods very painful. If a cyst breaks open, it can
cause severe pain and swelling of your lower
abdomen.
Care
The doctor may take a blood sample for testing. Often no
treatment is needed. However, your doctor may give you hormone
medicine (such as birth control pills) to shrink the cyst. In
severe cases, surgery may be
needed.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
You may continue your normal
activities.
You may need to go back to the doctor later or make
an appointment with another doctor to find the exact cause
of your cyst.
Call Your Doctor If...
Your periods are late, irregular, or
painful.
Your abdominal pain doesn't go
away.
Your abdomen becomes enlarged or
swollen.
You have trouble emptying your bladder
completely.
You have pain during sexual
intercourse.
You have feelings of fullness, pressure, or
discomfort in your abdomen.
You lose weight for no apparent
reason.
You feel generally ill.
Seek Care Immediately
If...
You have severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting,
and fever that comes on
suddenly.
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