Irregular Periods? It Could Be a Warning Sign of Ovarian Cysts – Know These 5 Symptoms

A fluid-filled sac that forms in an ovary is called an ovarian cyst. These cysts are highly prevalent and typically symptomless, with most disappearing spontaneously within a few months without medical intervention. They are often incidentally found during routine ultrasounds, particularly in women aged 15 to 44.

What Are Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts can be benign or malignant. Benign cysts include:

• Follicular Cysts: Caused by an unfertilized follicle filling with fluid.
• Hemorrhagic Cysts: Result from bleeding into a cyst, often associated with follicular or corpus luteal cysts.
• Corpus Luteal Cysts: Develop after egg release when the follicle sac retains fluid.
• Endometriotic Cysts: Known as chocolate cysts, stemming from endometriosis outside the uterus.
• Dermoid Cysts: Contain hair, skin, or teeth due to their embryonic origins.

Malignant cysts are ovarian tumors that require medical evaluation. Each type has distinct causes and implications, necessitating specific diagnosis and management. Below are some warning signs of an ovarian cyst, explained by Dr. Ramya KS, Consultant – Obstetrics, Gynecology & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Rainbow Hospital, Bannerghatta.

5 Warning Signs of Ovarian Cysts

1. Pelvic Pain and Discomfort:
   Pelvic pain or discomfort may result from the enlargement, rupture, or torsion of ovarian cysts. Depending on the size of the cyst and its effect on surrounding tissues, the pain can range from subtle to acute.
2. Nausea or Vomiting:
   Typically seen when ovarian cysts undergo torsion, especially in dermoid cysts. This is usually an emergency requiring immediate surgical treatment.
3. Changes in Bowel or Urinary Habits:
   Alterations in bowel or urinary habits can be early warning signs of ovarian cysts. Symptoms may include changes in stool consistency, increased frequency of bowel movements, urinary urgency, discomfort during urination, or changes in urine patterns. These changes warrant consultation with a healthcare professional for proper assessment and diagnosis.
4. Painful Menstruation:
   Severe pain during the menstrual cycle is a significant warning indicator of ovarian cysts. This pain, often described as severe cramping or sharp discomfort, might spread to the thighs or lower back and can occur before, during, or after menstruation. Pain from ovarian cysts can be more severe than regular menstrual cramps and may not respond to over-the-counter painkillers. Severe menstrual pain should be discussed with a healthcare professional as it may indicate ovarian cysts, particularly endometriotic cysts, or other underlying gynecological conditions.
5. Irregular Menstruation:
   Irregular menstruation is another warning sign of ovarian cysts. Cysts can cause hormonal imbalances that disrupt the menstrual cycle, leading to unusually heavy or irregular periods. Sudden changes in the menstrual cycle should prompt further investigation.

Managing Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts vary in severity based on type and symptoms. Simple cysts often resolve on their own, while endometriotic and dermoid cysts require close monitoring. Immediate medical attention is essential if a cyst grows rapidly, causes severe pain, or leads to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or elevated tumor markers, which may indicate serious complications such as rupture or infection.

Surgery is recommended for cysts larger than 5 cm, those causing symptoms or elevated tumor markers, complex cysts, infertility-related cases, persistent issues unresponsive to treatment, or suspected malignancies. Laparoscopic surgery is typically preferred for minimal scarring and faster recovery, although open surgery may be necessary in some cases. Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial for effective management and to prevent complications.