We believe many women have often heard the word “cyst” but has anyone ever known how these cysts form and how dangerous they are to our bodies?
Ovarian cysts: A common condition that needs urgent attention
Ovarian cysts are one of the conditions women need to quickly decide on when diagnosed. Although cysts may sometimes form and resolve on their own without surgery, there are certain cysts that require surgical removal because hormonal factors prevent them from shrinking. The symptoms can be severe, causing abdominal pain so intense that walking is difficult, often due to cyst rupture or torsion. If an ovarian cyst ruptures, it can cause adhesions in the abdomen, leading to chronic pelvic pain and infertility. If torsion occurs, it may result in the loss of the affected ovary. If left untreated for a long time, there is a risk it could eventually develop into cancer.
How do ovarian cysts form?
Normally, ovarian cysts are related to the ovaries. When ovulation is abnormal or hormone levels fluctuate, fluid can accumulate to form cysts in the ovaries. Anovulation can also cause multiple small cysts to form, or abnormal cell division in the ovaries can lead to cyst formation. Younger women usually have simple cysts that resolve on their own, but cysts found near menopause have a higher chance of developing into cancer.
Most ovarian cysts do not show symptoms because they are usually small. However, some may experience dull pain in the lower abdomen, a feeling of tightness or fullness, or abnormal menstrual pain. Symptoms may include bloating or pain during intercourse. If a cyst ruptures or bursts, there will be sudden severe abdominal pain. Large cysts or cyst torsion can also cause sudden severe abdominal pain. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor promptly for accurate diagnosis.
Warning signs that come with risks
- Lower abdominal pain, especially during menstruation
- Increased frequency of urination, which may be caused by a growing cyst pressing on the bladder
- Abnormal abdominal enlargement
- Sudden severe lower abdominal pain, which may be caused by ovarian cyst torsion or rupture
- Heavy or irregular spotting menstrual bleeding with increasing severe pain each month
Choosing treatment based on the cause
Those experiencing these symptoms should see a gynecologist for an accurate diagnosis. The examination usually includes medical history, physical examination, internal examination, and ultrasound to view pelvic organs. Ultrasound can be done either abdominally or transvaginally, with the latter providing clearer images of the ovaries. The procedure is similar to an internal exam and is painless, making it popular. Currently, ultrasound can determine the size, shape, number, location, and characteristics of cysts, as well as blood flow within the cyst. In some cases, additional tests such as a CT scan may be required. The doctor will then consider the cause: cysts caused by ovarian dysfunction may resolve on their own but require follow-up ultrasounds. Benign tumors can be treated surgically. In cases of ovarian cancer, surgery and chemotherapy may be necessary. Early detection leads to better and timely outcomes.
Laparoscopic surgery: A tool to remove ovarian cysts
Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy involves making about three small incisions in the abdomen to insert surgical instruments and a small camera that transmits images to a monitor, acting as the surgeon’s eyes. There are also small tools to assist in surgery, such as tissue graspers, cauterizing instruments, cutting and suturing tools. This minimally invasive surgery can reach small areas that the surgeon’s hands cannot, causing less trauma to internal organs compared to open abdominal surgery. The incisions are small, approximately 0.5–1 centimeter in size.
