Ovarian Cysts - Can Bloated & Tender Abdomen Be A Sign?

Description for the right answer Ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac in the ovaries. While they are not normal, they are not always indicative of a disease condition. Some of them can remain benign forever and need no intervention at all. They can be watched for growth in number and size, with intervention only required when absolutely necessary. If you have a family history of ovarian cysts, identify if you have them too. You could then watch them for symptoms and/or changes.

Ovarian cysts are generally benign and very few turn into cancers. In general, if a woman is identified to have cysts, they can be watched for a period of time. If they grow in number or size, then intervention may be required. Birth control pills are a good way to control them too. In very rare cases, keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery or laparotomy (open surgery) may be required to remove them. Annual pelvic exams are a good way to monitor ovarian cysts.

Not every ovarian cyst is a disease condition. There are broadly two types of ovarian cysts functional and pathological. In the functional variety, there are again two types. The follicular cysts are when the egg ready for fertilization does not completely shrink, they stay for a few days and then disappear. The luteal ovarian cysts are formed when after the egg is released, the corpus leteum fills up with blood. Pathological cysts can be dermoid or cystadenomas and are causes for concern. Ovarian cysts, especially the functional variety, are very common and do not require any intervention.

Ovarian cysts are of two types functional and pathological. The functional ones, both follicular and corpus luteal, do not require any treatment and normally disappear on their own. However, it is always good to monitor them as they can cause other issues like infertility, in women with polycystic ovaries. For infertility treatment, ruling out polycystic ovaries is an important step.