Ovarian cysts affect women of reproductive age. It is a condition characterized by abdominal heaviness, fullness, and bloating, and persistent pelvic pain. If you experience these symptoms, consult an OBGYN for an evaluation and appropriate management options. Here is more information about ovarian cysts:
Ovarian Cysts: Overview
Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluids in or on the surface of your ovary. Hormone imbalances, pregnancy, pelvic infections, fertility drugs, and endometriosis often increase the likelihood of developing cysts. Although common and harmless, cysts can sometimes rupture, causing severe complications. An experienced OBGYN monitors your condition to determine if they will disappear on their own. If not, they often recommend medications like birth control pills to lower the risk of developing new ones. Here are some symptoms of ovarian cysts that may require you to see a gynecologist:
Abdominal Bloating
Constant abdominal bloating can indicate the presence of ovarian cysts. If bloating persists over time and is not relieved by over-the-counter treatments or diet changes, schedule an appointment with an OBGYN for an exam. Larger cysts exert pressure on the surrounding organs like the bladder, uterus, and intestines. The pressure causes the feeling of fullness, tightness, and swelling in the abdomen. You may experience intermittent or constant bloating, depending on the size and type of cysts.
Pelvic Pain
Ovarian cysts cause lower abdomen pain that can vary in intensity, ranging from a mild, dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain. As cysts grow, they often cause sensitivity and inflammation in surrounding tissues. Pain may be constant or intermittent and can worsen during high-impact activities. While doing sit-ups, pain is likely to worsen since you place more pressure on cysts. Sometimes, cysts may rupture or twist, causing sudden and severe pelvic pain that may require medical attention.
Pain During Intercourse
Movement during sexual intercourse exerts force on the ovarian cysts, leading to discomfort in the pelvic area. You are likely to experience sharp or throbbing pain, especially during penetration or at certain angles that compress the pelvic region. The friction and thrusting motions commonly irritate the surrounding tissues, which are already sensitive, making sexual intercourse painful and uncomfortable. An experienced OBGYN helps you manage the pain by prescribing medications that reduce the risks of developing new cysts.
Nausea or Vomiting
Ovarian cysts inflame organs like the stomach and intestines, disrupting normal digestive function. These organs become less responsive to the regular contractions of digestive muscles, resulting in nausea, cramping, and constipation. If the cysts rupture, the sudden and severe pain triggers the body’s stress response, leading to nausea and vomiting.
Change in Menstrual Cycle
Infrequent periods, missed periods, and heavy or light periods can indicate the presence of ovarian cysts. Ovarian cysts alter the functioning of the ovaries. Typically, the ovaries produce progesterone and estrogen, hormones that regulate menstrual cycles. When cysts develop in or on the ovaries, they hinder the ovaries’ ability to release an egg and produce the hormones in a balanced manner. This leads to hormonal imbalances, which disrupt the normal ovulation process, causing irregular periods.
Contact an OBGYN Today
Ovarian cysts vary in size and type and can cause severe symptoms. Consulting an experienced OBGYN early can help treat the condition, reducing the risk of complications like rupture. Contact a qualified OBGYN today to learn more about ovarian cysts.
