An ovarian cyst can come and go without causing any signs or symptoms. These fluid-filled sacs most commonly form during ovulation — when your ovary releases an egg during the menstrual cycle — and go away within a few months.
Though most ovarian cysts are harmless, they can enlarge and cause problems or rupture and require immediate medical care.
At Obstetrics & Gynecologists, PC, in Hastings and Grand Island, Nebraska, our women’s health experts specialize in diagnosing and treating gynecological conditions like ovarian cysts. Here, we share five common signs of ovarian cysts so you know what to look for.
A common symptom of ovarian cysts is a feeling of fullness or bloating in the lower part of your belly. You may also feel pressure or a dull aching sensation.
These symptoms are common with many gynecological conditions, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and patients often dismiss them as normal and nothing to worry about. However, pain and discomfort is never normal — if you have concerns, schedule an appointment so we can provide answers you need.
We do an ultrasound test to evaluate your reproductive organs and look for ovarian cysts. The ultrasound also helps us evaluate a cyst’s size, shape, and location.
Treatment for ovarian cysts depends on symptoms, size, and cause. Because most ovarian cysts resolve on their own, you may not need any treatment. But we may schedule follow-up ultrasounds to monitor the cyst.
Any bloating you experience from an ovarian cyst may cause weight gain. However, the increase in weight is excess water and not something to worry about.
If you have multiple ovarian cysts, you may have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a gynecological condition that occurs due to a hormonal imbalance. Weight gain and difficulty losing weight are common symptoms of PCOS. Hair thinning, acne, and missed periods are other symptoms you may have with PCOS.
PCOS is a gynecological condition that needs medical management to control symptoms.
If you find yourself heading to the bathroom more often, it could be a sign of an ovarian cyst. An increase in urination is a symptom of many health issues women face, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), fibroids, and urinary incontinence. Drinking more fluids may also increase trips to the bathroom.
Ovarian cysts may also cause pelvic pain. The degree of pain can vary from dull to sharp and come and go. Sudden and severe pelvic pain may mean you have a ruptured ovarian cyst and need emergency medical care.
An ovarian cyst may cause the ovary to twist around the tissue that supports it. Though very rare, this complication may cause severe pelvic pain on one side of the body along with nausea and vomiting.
If you have these symptoms, go to the emergency room right away. The twisting of the ovary, medically called ovarian torsion, cuts off blood supply to the ovary. If not addressed right away, the lack of blood may cause permanent damage to the ovary, affecting function and fertility.
Ovarian cysts are common and mostly harmless, but they can lead to emergency situations if they rupture or cause the ovary to twist. Knowing you have an ovarian cyst is the first step in managing any potential complication.
Don’t ignore symptoms, even when they seem “normal.” Call our office or request an appointment online to set up an appointment with one of our women’s health experts at Obstetrics & Gynecologists, PC. We can find the cause of your symptoms and create a treatment plan.
