Ovarian cysts are one of the common conditions that can affect women's reproductive health. Although most of the time they are harmless and can disappear on their own, in some cases they can cause severe pain, menstrual irregularities and fertility problems. Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent the possible complications that ovarian cysts can cause.
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What is an ovarian cyst?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in the ovaries. These cysts, which are usually benign, can develop due to hormonal imbalances, genetic predisposition or infections.
Ovarian cysts can form in, on or around the ovary. The most common types are as follows:
- Functional cysts: These are harmless cysts that occur during the ovulation process and often disappear on their own.
- Dermoid cysts: Congenital cysts that may contain hair, fat or other tissue.
- Endometriosis (chocolate cyst): Cysts containing dense brown fluid that develop due to endometriosis.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder that causes multiple small cysts to develop in the ovary.
What Causes Ovarian Cysts?
The most common cause of ovarian cysts is hormonal imbalances. However, there are other factors that can lead to cyst formation. Factors that can lead to ovarian cyst formation:
- Hormonal changes: Imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels can lead to cyst formation.
- Genetic predisposition: It is more common in women with a family history of ovarian cysts.
- Endometriosis: Chocolate cysts may develop due to the growth of intrauterine tissue outside the uterus.
- Pregnancy: Some functional cysts may develop during pregnancy.
- Pelvic infections: Infections affecting the ovaries can lead to cyst development.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A syndrome that causes multiple small cysts to form on the ovaries.
Some ovarian cysts can occur asymptomatically and can be detected during routine gynecological examinations.
What Causes Ovarian Cysts?
What are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts?
Although ovarian cysts are usually asymptomatic, some women may experience the following symptoms:
- Menstrual irregularity: Menstrual bleeding that is too long or short.
- Severe menstrual cramps: Severe groin and abdominal pain during menstruation.
- Abdominal and groin pain: Pain may increase, especially when the cyst grows or bursts.
- Bloating and stomach upset: Large cysts can cause a feeling of bloating in the abdomen.
- Digestive problems: Constipation or changes in bowel movements may occur.
- Pain during sexual intercourse: Especially large cysts can cause pain during vaginal intercourse.
- Discomfort when urinating: There may be a need to urinate frequently because the cyst presses on the bladder.
- Infertility: Cysts that affect ovarian function can make it difficult to get pregnant.
If symptoms such as severe pain, nausea, vomiting or fainting occur, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Who Can Get Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts can occur in all age groups, but some women are at higher risk. Factors that increase the risk of ovarian cysts:
Hormonal imbalances: It can be seen more frequently in women with menstrual irregularities.
Genetic predisposition: Women with a family history of ovarian cysts are at risk.
Endometriosis patients: The risk of developing cysts known as chocolate cysts is higher.
Patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Multiple small cysts can form due to ovulation disorders.
Obesity: Changes in hormone levels can cause cyst formation.
Women who have never given birth: Women who have not given birth may have a higher risk of ovarian cysts.
How is ovarian cyst treatment performed?
The treatment process of ovarian cysts may vary depending on the size and type of the cyst and the patient's complaints. Treatment methods for ovarian cysts:
- Regular Doctor Follow-up: For small and harmless cysts, regular doctor follow-up may be sufficient.
- Drug Therapy: Birth control pills or hormone-regulating drugs can be used to maintain hormone balance.
- Surgical Intervention: Surgery may be required to remove large, painful or potentially malignant cysts.
The treatment process depends entirely on the patient's health condition and the doctor's recommendations.
How is ovarian cyst surgery performed?
Ovarian cyst surgery is usually performed laparoscopically (closed). General anesthesia is applied and the patient does not feel any pain during the operation. Small incisions are made in the abdomen and the ovaries are accessed with a camera. Cysts are carefully removed and healthy ovarian tissue is preserved. After the procedure is completed, the incision sites are closed with aesthetic sutures. The patient is usually hospitalized for 1-2 days and then discharged. Thanks to closed surgery techniques, patients can recover in a shorter time and return to their normal lives.
