Ovarian Cyst Symptoms
Ovarian
cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets within or on the surface of an ovary.
Women have ovarian cysts without having any symptoms, they are usually found during a routine pelvic exam. During this exam, your doctor is able to feel the swelling of the cyst on your ovary. Once a cyst is found, the doctor may perform an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of the body. With an ultrasound, the doctor can see how the cyst is shaped; its size and location; and whether its fluid-filled, solid, or mixed.
Symptoms of an ovarian cyst, may include:
- Menstrual irregularities
- Pelvic pain, a constant or intermittent dull ache that may radiate to
your lower back and thighs
- Pelvic pain shortly before your period begins or just before it ends
- Pelvic pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Nausea, vomiting or breast tenderness similar to that experienced during
pregnancy
- Fullness or heaviness in your abdomen
- Pressure on your rectum or bladder, difficulty emptying your bladder
completely
The signs and symptoms that signal the need for immediate medical attention
include:
- Sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Pain accompanied by fever or vomiting
Many cysts are completely normal. These are called functional cysts.
Functional ovarian cysts usually occur during the childbearing years. Most
often, cysts in women of this age group are not cancerous. Women who are past
menopause (ages 50-70) with ovarian cysts have a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
At any age, if you think you have a cyst, its important to tell your doctor.
Ovarian Cyst Symptoms to O |
