Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develops on one of the ovaries. Most women experience them at one time or another, but they are often painless and symptomless. Ovarian cysts are simply the presence of said cysts in the ovaries, while polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complicated collection of symptoms resulting from the presence of those cysts. In other words, it is possible for a woman to have ovarian cysts without it developing into PCOS. On the other hand, PCOS is a cascade of symptoms and complications resulting from the development of ovarian cysts.
Risk Factors. Known risk factors of ovarian cysts include being post-menopausal; being a smoker; being overweight; not having had children; taking certain infertility drugs; undergoing hormone replacement therapy; and a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer.
Symptoms. If symptoms are present, one may experience abdominal bloating or swelling; painful bowel movements; painful menstruation; painful sex; pain in the abdomen or lower back; weight gain; breast tenderness; or nausea and vomiting.
Complications. In most instances, ovarian cysts are benign. But occasionally, they can be cancerous. Ovarian torsion occurs when a large cyst causes an ovary to twist or shift from its usual position. As a result, the blood supply to that ovary is cut off, which can cause death or damage to the affected tissue. Ruptured cysts occur when the cyst(s) burst, causing internal bleeding and severe pain. Untreated recurrent ovarian cysts during childbearing years may lead to infertility.
Diagnosis. In most cases, an ovarian cyst is first detected via manual pelvic exam by your gynecologist. Confirmatory testing may be done via a CT scan, PET scan, MRI, or ultrasound.
Treatment. Most cysts disappear on their own, so your doctor may not recommend any interventions if it is not causing any severe symptoms. Oral contraceptives may be prescribed to stop ovulation and prevent the development of additional cysts. As an added bonus, birth control decreases your risk of ovarian cancer. In severe cases, the cyst(s) may be surgically removed, sometimes requiring a full hysterectomy. Cancerous cysts can be treated with chemotherapy and/or radiation.
