Ovarian cysts are something that effect many women; however, many may not even realize that they have developed them. There are times when there are no signs of ovarian cysts developing. This often means that there are no problems and they will not create any problems. However, there are times that the signs appear and it can mean something more sinister is happening.

The causes of ovarian cysts

Cysts form on the ovaries for a number of reasons. There are many different types, depending on the way that they have formed. One of the most common reasons is due to an egg not releasing correctly and it becomes a growth in the ovaries.

Signs of Ovarian CystsThe cysts are usually small sacs that have fluid in them. Most of the time they go away on their own but there are times when the signs of ovarian cysts appear due to them bursting. They can cause many problems and may lead to the need of surgery to be able to remove them.

The signs of ovarian cysts

The most common sign of a cyst is when there is an abdominal pain. This can be in the belly or around the pelvis area and usually occurs for a handful of reasons. The most common reason is due to the cyst rupturing but it can also be due to a bleed, some growth or becoming twisted around the blood supply.

If the cysts do increase in size, there are times that it can lead to some pressure being felt in the body. It can also lead to bloating and indigestion. There are times that the cyst will block tubes and cause a problem with the menstrual cycle or make it difficult to have sexual intercourse or moving the bowels.

Diagnosing cysts

Once the signs of ovarian cysts are noted, it is important to find out whether this is the case – or whether there is another problem. This is something that your doctor will be able to do and they are usually spotted through the use of ultrasounds. This will also help to determine the size and shape of the cyst and whether it is causing any other problems.

You may find that you need to have a CT or MRI scan to be able to find the cysts, depending on where it may be in the body.

When is a cyst dangerous?

One the signs of ovarian cysts have been spotted and it has been diagnosed, it is time to determine whether this is something dangerous. This depends on a number of factors. First of all, the age of the woman will need to be looked into. Women with regular menstrual cycles will not usually be monitored for a long period of time – around three menstrual cycles will be checked on.

Women who are on contraceptives will not have regular ovulation periods, which will mean that it is difficult to monitor this way. They, and older women in menopause, will need further observation. This will help to determine whether the cysts are causing a problem or whether they are disappearing on their own. If they do cause a problem, then the cysts will be removed.