Ovarian Cyst: Myths and Facts

It’s an ovarian cyst.

It can be worrisome to know about the situation. The first thought that comes in women’s mind is that this is cancerous and I must go for surgery as soon as possible. 

The truth is that ovarian cysts are very common, and most women have them. The majority of them are harmless. Only a few women actually know about ovarian cysts and how to deal with them. Ladies, time to wake up and know what is common and what is not. Bundling between confusion, myths and misinformation is not going to help you. First, you should know about your body. 

Let’s start with myths and facts to clear the space, and then we’ll proceed with the symptoms which you should not ignore. 

Myth: Ovarian cyst causes infertility. 

Fact: It does not cause infertility alone. 

When ovarian cyst involved with underlying health conditions like PCOS, and endometriosis, then it resulted into infertility. Women who have ovarian cysts and infertility issues usually conclude that the issue is because of the cyst, but first, they need to understand the root cause. 

Myth: All Ovarian cysts are cancerous. 

Fact: Unfortunately, ovarian cyst is directly confused with ovarian cancer, but it is necessary to note that, both are different, and rather than knowing the true nature of both the problem, women start panicking. 

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the ovary, and they are not necessarily causes cancer. Less than 1% of women face the issue of ovarian cancer, and women with a history of cancer and who have ovarian cysts are at greater risk. Sometimes, these cysts show little to no discomfort and are considered harmless. While the majority of them disappear over time without treatment. Age, pregnancy, hormonal fluctuation, pelvic infection, and other factors are involved behind the issue.

Myth: Only older women are affected by ovarian cysts.

Fact: Women of all ages can be affected by this.

This is one of the biggest myths. Women in the childbearing years (before menopause) are most vulnerable to ovarian cysts. Erratic cycle, follicle development (follicles are able to shrink after releasing eggs), hormonal imbalance, and high levels of progesterone are common in women in perimenopause. Even newborn girls can be affected by this, and after some months, their cyst issue resolves on its own. According to NIH, 1 in 2,500 girls is born with an ovarian cyst, but even the smallest number indicates that not all older women get ovarian cysts. But if she is born with a cyst more than 5cm, then surgery is required to prevent damage. 

Myth: A Recurrent cyst cannot be prevented.

Fact: Functional ovarian cysts are a normal part of the menstrual cycle and form when the follicle houses the egg or unable to rupture. 

Most of them are harmless and can be resolve on their own. Only a few, which are triggered due to functional conditions like early menarche, increase the risk of recurrence. But don’t worry, these can be easily treated through medications, like hormonal contraception (birth control pills), which can help to suppress ovulation. There are rare cases when functional cyst prevents ovulation or physical obstruction in fertilization. When the fluid sac starts blocking the fallopian tube, the case becomes serious. 

Myth: They indeed require a surgical procedure to remove. 

Fact: Not all cysts require a surgical procedure. 

Most of the ovarian cysts go away within 3 months without undergoing a surgical procedure. But it is necessary to g for regular checkups if you ever diagnosed an ovarian cyst. Surgery is only required when a large cyst comes with complexities and abnormalities like endometriomas or dermoid cysts. 

For a large cyst, laparoscopy is performed, and the procedure is highly dependent on the size of the cyst. But don’t worry, the surgery offers faster recovery with less pain. 

Warning signs: You should not ignore.

• Pelvic pain in the pelvic region and intensity increases on one side of the lower abdomen. 
• Constant feeling of bloating and swelling because of the cyst in or on your ovaries (should visit a gynaecologist. Don’t think it’s a gastric issue, rather get yourself checked).
• Pain during menstruation and intercourse is normal, but if the pain is persistent and causes inflammation, then this sign indicates a large ovarian cyst. 
• Sometimes, an ovarian cyst causes difficulty in passing bowel movements, as it starts to press nearby organs and disturb their functioning. 
• The menstrual cycle is disrupted with either irregular or heavy bleeding. If this is persistent and not resolving after two to three cycles, then your body needs a medical intervention. 
• Sometimes, a large cyst puts lots of pressure on the bladder, which increases the urge to urinate and frequent urination. 

Final Note.

Now you know that cyst does not lead to health concerning issues, but it is important to make sure that your body is functioning properly. First of all, all women in their highly fertile years must visit a gynaecologist regularly to get themselves checked.

Now, those who are dealing with ovarian cysts should not worry and increase their cortisol level. It is best to follow the instruction of their doctor and consider taking medications on time. Aveya Fertility Centre wants to increase awareness amongst women, because they are most vulnerable to disease, and they simply ignore the signs of their bodies. Moreover, if you are confused about ovarian cysts or any other things, then Aveya Fertility Centre is there to help you. 

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