When are women most likely to have ovarian cysts? Most functional ovarian cysts occur during childbearing years. And most of those cysts are not cancerous. Women who are past menopause (ages 50–70) with ovarian cysts have a higher risk of ovarian cancer. At any age, if you think you have a cyst, consult your doctor for a pelvic exam.
Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cyst. A woman with an ovarian cyst will often notice pelvic pain which is constant, dull and aching. She may also experience pain during other daily activities, such as during or immediately following sexual intercourse. Pelvic pain may also be felt when passing a bowel movement or during regular daily activities such as lifting, bending or reaching. Other more intense activities such sports and physical activity may also induce pain. A woman with a ruptured ovarian cyst may experience pain associated with their menstrual cycle - in particular, pain may escalate just prior to or just after the menstrual period.
A woman with an ovarian cyst, whether it is intact or ruptured, may experience a menstrual cycle that is irregular, or which is longer or shorter than usual. Bleeding may be much heavier than usual, or may be present as "spotting" - small bleeds that occur at random throughout the menstrual cycle. By contrast, other women with an ovarian cyst may find that their menstrual period stops altogether (commonly called as amenorrhea). When an ovarian cyst ruptures, there is inevitably an onset of sharp, piercing pain, particularly in the lower abdominal quadrants. If there has been no pain associated with the presence of the ovarian cyst prior to rupture, the increase in pain upon cystic rupture will be particularly evident. If the intact ovarian cyst has induced pain prior to rupture, you may notice a slow escalation of pain when the ovarian cyst ruptures.
Complications of Ruptured Ovarian Cyst. Ruptured ovarian cyst are potentially serious and, in some cases life threatening, these complications occur relatively infrequently. Seeking medical advice if you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with an ovarian cyst is critical and may reduce the likelihood of complications. These complications are very rare, but it is important to visit a doctor as delays in the same can be fatal and have life threatening consequences.
Rupture of an ovarian cyst may be asymptomatic or associated with the sudden onset of unilateral lower abdominal pain. The pain often begins during strenuous physical activity, such as exercise or sexual intercourse. It may be accompanied by light vaginal bleeding due to a drop in secretion of ovarian hormones and subsequent endometrial sloughing.
Treatment. Ruptured ovarian cyst treatment is directly related to the intensity of a persons condition. Generally doctors will probably perform a CS (CAT SCAN), and/or an ultrasound to correctly detect the condition. It is important to observe that when you have a fever along with abdominal pain, then you should really go to the emergency room or doctor without delay, because this might be an indication of something more serious. In extreme instances a woman may have to have an operation to eliminate a ruptured cyst.
Ruptured Ovarian Cyst can be treated with any of the following:
- Warm compress- applying warmth to the lower abdomen next to the ovaries can relax muscles and reduce cramping and discomfort.
- Surgery- in cases where the ruptured ovarian cyst becomes a threat, it may be removed through surgery
- Oral contraceptives- taking in birth control pills or hormone supplements can help regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent the development of follicles which can grow into ovarian cysts
- Pain Relievers- non steroidal drugs and anti inflammatory medication can help reduce pelvic pain