Types and causes of ovarian cysts, their effect on pregnancy, and methods of treatment

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects the function of the ovaries in women, leading to an imbalance in hormone levels. This hormonal imbalance can cause irregular menstrual cycles, increased hair growth, acne, and infertility. You can learn about PCOS, its symptoms, its most important health complications, and its treatment methods through the Dalili Medical website.

**What is PCOS?**
The ovary is part of the female reproductive system, located in the lower abdomen on either side of the uterus. Women have two ovaries that produce eggs during their reproductive years. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that may be located inside or on the surface of the ovary. These cysts are usually small and harmless, and often disappear without pain or the need for treatment. While most women experience ovarian cysts at some point, which may cause little or no discomfort, cysts that cause pain or bleeding should be examined by a specialist.

**Does drinking plenty of water help treat ovarian cysts?**

Drinking adequate amounts of water is beneficial for maintaining the health and functions of the body's organs, including the health of the uterus and ovaries, which increases the chances of pregnancy. However, polycystic ovary syndrome is a more complex condition and requires a specific treatment plan from a doctor.

**When does an ovarian cyst become dangerous?**

The formation of follicular cysts and corpus luteum inside and around the ovary is very common in women of reproductive age, especially in their forties. In general, if the menstrual cycle is regular, ovarian cysts do not pose a problem in pregnancy. It is worth noting that ovarian cysts do not appear in women who take birth control pills, because ovulation does not occur. Malignant cysts, on the other hand, contain solid tissue rather than fluid, and are clearly visible on ultrasound images. Malignant cysts rarely appear before the age of thirty, while their chances of appearing increase after the age of forty, but many ovarian cysts that form at this age are benign and not dangerous.

**Symptoms of ovarian cyst rupture**

When an ovarian cyst ruptures, some serious symptoms may appear, including:
- **Pain:** Sometimes, ovarian cysts may rupture without feeling pain, but in other cases, the rupture may be accompanied by severe pain. Mild pain can be controlled with painkillers, but the patient may sometimes need medical care if the pain is severe in the lower abdomen.

- **Abdominal bleeding:** Internal bleeding is considered a complication of ovarian cyst rupture, especially functional cysts. It is important to note that ovarian cysts are more likely to rupture and bleed near the menstrual period.

**Abdominal pressure and bloating:** The presence of ovarian cysts, especially after they enlarge and occupy part of the ovarian space, leads to pressure on the surrounding tissues and bloating in the abdominal area. Although the cysts may rupture, the fluid leaking from them can cause more swelling.

**Nausea and vomiting:** In some women, ovarian cysts may cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness after ovarian cysts rupture.

**Fever:** An elevated body temperature is a relatively common sign after ovarian cysts rupture.

**Anemia:** Anemia resulting from ovarian cysts rupture is an important symptom, and can sometimes lead to low blood pressure or an increased heart rate.

**What effect do ovarian cysts have on the menstrual cycle?**

Irregular menstrual periods are a common effect of ovarian cysts. A woman should see her gynecologist if her menstrual cycle is irregular or irregular, with a period of more than 35 days between periods, if her period comes less than 8 times a year, if it is late for four consecutive months, or if the amount of blood is very little or very much. It is important to note that irregular menstrual cycles or the absence of menstruation for a month or two, especially in the early years of puberty, are not usually considered serious and do not require follow-up.

**What are the signs of polycystic ovary syndrome during menstruation?**

If a woman suffers from polycystic ovary syndrome, she may experience abnormal bleeding, whether light or heavy, in addition to feeling severe pain throughout her menstrual cycle.

**Do polycystic ovary syndrome increase the male hormone?**

Yes, in some cases, the level of the male hormone (androgen) may increase, leading to the appearance of male signs in women as a result of the formation of polycystic ovary syndrome. These signs include the appearance of acne after adolescence or severe acne during adolescence, in addition to excessive hair growth on the face and body, and male pattern baldness.

**How ​​big are benign ovarian cysts?**

Benign ovarian cysts can reach 8 cm in size without the need for surgery, with periodic review and monitoring by a doctor. If the cysts are larger than 80 mm, they may require surgical removal after medical examinations and follow-ups.

**Does ovarian cysts develop with age?**

Ovarian cysts form at different ages, but the most common age for their appearance is between 15 and 29 years. It is important to note that the appearance of ovarian cysts after menopause is considered a danger sign, as it may indicate the possibility of ovarian cancer. Although most ovarian cysts are benign in young women, their enlargement may cause multiple risks, such as the ovaries twisting around themselves or bursting.

**Can ovarian cysts be detected through a blood test?**

Ovarian cysts cannot be diagnosed through a blood test, but doctors rely on ultrasound imaging to determine the presence of cysts on the ovary. The doctor may also request some additional tests to check hormone levels in the body and determine the causes of ovarian cysts.

**Does it treat nausea 

Polycystic ovary syndrome?**

Cinnamon is used as a treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome due to its effectiveness in treating insulin resistance, which helps improve fertility and regulate the menstrual cycle in people with polycystic ovary syndrome.

**Grades of polycystic ovary syndrome:**

 

- **Severe type:** In this case, the menstrual cycle is interrupted and does not occur until after taking treatment, such as birth control pills or other hormones. Since there is no menstrual cycle, ovulation does not occur, which means that pregnancy is not possible.

- **Moderate type:** Here, menstrual disorders may occur, such as a decrease or increase in the number of bleeding days, or the continuation of blood spots throughout the month, or an advance or delay in the menstrual cycle. Ovulation is also irregular, which leads to delayed pregnancy.

- **Simple type:** In this type, the menstrual cycle is somewhat regular, but when trying to track ovulation over several months, ovulation may not occur monthly, which also leads to delayed pregnancy.

**Types of Cysts:**

- **Lutein cysts:** These are soft, thin-walled masses that often go away on their own.

- **Noncancerous cysts (Adenoma cyst):** These include mucous and serous cysts, and although they are less risky, they are characterized by their large size and form above the lining of the ovaries.

- **Dermoid cysts:** They arise from the remains of stem cells and genetic material, and may contain parts of nails, nerves, cartilage, teeth, hair, and fat.

- **Para ovarian cysts:** These are more common in women who have had an ectopic pregnancy or suffered from infertility, and are usually very small and do not affect fertility.

- **Cysts resulting from polycystic ovary syndrome:** These cysts are considered benign and occur as a result of hormonal disorders that lead to the ovarian follicles not fully maturing. There are several treatments available for women with polycystic ovary syndrome to relieve symptoms and control the disease. This syndrome leads to the absence of ovulation or its occurrence is irregular, which may cause fertility problems, which requires consulting a doctor and starting appropriate treatment.

Endometrial cysts, also known as chocolate cysts, are a condition in which the lining of the uterus forms over the ovaries, leading to pain during menstruation and dark brown blood. This occurs as a result of the continuous growth and expansion of the lining of the uterus during each menstrual cycle, instead of being expelled with menstrual blood. This condition is called endometriosis or endometriosis, and often has a genetic background. Iron in the blood can also cause a state of poisoning, in addition to the adhesion of the pelvic cavity cells, which leads to the uterus adhering to the intestines or the ovaries adhering to the pelvic floor. As a result, many blood cysts known as chocolate cysts are formed, which can only be treated through surgery.

As for simple or physiological cysts (Follicular cyst), they are a type of ovarian cysts that range in diameter from 5 to 6 mm. These cysts form when the egg is not released or when a mature follicle is formed. Sometimes the mature egg remains inside the follicle. The fluid inside the follicle, which is responsible for the growth and protection of the egg, may not come out even after the egg is released. In both cases, the follicles swell and shrink, leading to the formation of cysts that are usually harmless and disappear on their own within weeks.

Corpus luteum cysts form when the body produces fertility hormones during the release of the egg from the follicle each month. At the same time, the follicle turns into a corpus luteum, leading to the formation of corpus luteum cysts if fluid accumulates inside it.

As for the difference between ovarian cysts and ovarian laziness, ovarian cysts can occur at any time without causing obvious signs or symptoms, and without affecting the menstrual cycle or fertility. These cysts can also disappear on their own without the need for treatment. In contrast, ovarian laziness or polycystic ovary syndrome occurs as a result of a hormonal disorder, and is often accompanied by signs such as excessive hair growth, acne, and irregular menstrual periods, leading to fertility problems.

**What are the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome?**

 

Small ovarian cysts usually disappear on their own without causing any symptoms. However, when these cysts grow, they may lead to a variety of symptoms, depending on their causes. Possible symptoms of ovarian cysts include:

- **Persistent pain and abdominal bloating:** Women with polycystic ovary syndrome may feel constant discomfort in the abdominal area, which can range from mild bloating to a feeling of significant expansion. This is often due to hormonal imbalances that affect digestion and metabolism.

- **Pain before, during, or after menstruation:** Many women with polycystic ovary syndrome experience dysmenorrhea, which is characterized by pelvic pain or cramps before, during, or after menstruation. Hormonal fluctuations and irregular menstrual cycles can contribute to this discomfort.

- **Discomfort during bowel movements:** PCOS can affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, or discomfort during bowel movements. Hormonal imbalances can affect bowel function and contribute to abdominal discomfort.

- **Pain during intercourse:** Women with PCOS may experience pain during intercourse, known as dyspareunia, as a result of pelvic congestion or hormonal imbalances that affect lubrication, as well as psychological factors associated with the condition.

- **Pain in the lower back and thighs:** Hormonal imbalances can contribute to 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause musculoskeletal symptoms such as lower back pain and discomfort in the thighs. These symptoms may be exacerbated by weight gain, insulin resistance, or changes in gait patterns.

- **Abnormal vaginal bleeding:** PCOS can cause irregular bleeding patterns, such as heavy or prolonged periods, bleeding between periods, or breakthrough bleeding. These disturbances may be accompanied by discomfort or pain in the pelvis.

- **Frequent urination:** Some women with PCOS may experience increased frequency or urgency of urination, which can be related to hormonal imbalances, pelvic congestion, or pressure on the bladder from enlarged cysts.

- **Changes in menstrual cycles:** PCOS often causes menstrual irregularities, such as missed or infrequent periods, or periods that are longer or shorter than usual. These changes may be accompanied by discomfort or pain in the pelvis.

- **Loss of appetite or unexpected weight loss:** While weight gain is more common in PCOS due to insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances, some women may experience loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss, especially if they have digestive symptoms or metabolic disorders.

**What are the causes of polycystic ovary syndrome?**

 

There are many causes that lead to ovarian cysts, the most prominent of which are:

1. **Hormonal problems**: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prominent conditions that cause ovarian cysts as a result of hormonal fluctuations in the body. This syndrome occurs when several small cysts form in the ovaries, leading to the secretion of hormones known as estrogens, which may affect a woman's fertility and menstrual cycle.

2. **Endometriosis**: Endometriosis is known as a cyst that appears in the ovary of women with endometriosis, a chronic condition in which tissue grows outside the uterus and on other organs in the abdominal cavity. The tissues that form on the ovary can lead to growth that causes pain during menstruation and discomfort during intercourse.

3. **Infections**: In some cases, infections that affect the ovaries and fallopian tubes can lead to the formation of cysts. These cysts usually disappear after treatment, but if the pain persists, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

4. **Ovulation**: The appearance of some types of ovarian cysts is associated with the menstrual cycle, and these cysts are known as functional ovarian cysts, which are very common and occur in most women before menopause. Every month, the ovary produces and releases an egg during ovulation, where this egg is formed inside a follicle containing fluid that protects it as it grows. A cyst in the follicle can occur as a result of several conditions, such as:
- The follicle containing the egg does not open, which leads to it filling with fluid, which is known as a follicular cyst.
- The follicle does not dissolve after the egg is released, causing it to continue to grow, which is known as a corpus luteum cyst.

Functional ovarian cysts are noncancerous (benign) and usually harmless. Although they may cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, most go away within a few months without treatment.

**Pelvic inflammatory disease**

Pelvic inflammatory disease is a possible cause of ovarian cysts, an infection that affects the female reproductive organs in the pelvic area, including the ovaries, and can lead to the development of a pus-filled cyst on the ovary. Pelvic inflammatory disease usually occurs when a sexually transmitted infection spreads to the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Pelvic inflammatory disease can also be a possible complication of surgery on the pelvic area or female organs.

**Non-cancerous growth in the ovary**

Benign (non-cancerous) ovarian cysts can develop as a result of abnormal growth on the outer surface of the ovaries. These cysts are commonly known as dermoid cysts, and are often made up of reproductive cells, and sometimes contain hair, fat, teeth, or other types of tissue. This condition may be a cause of ovarian cysts in women before or after menopause.

**Ovarian cancer**

A serious cause of ovarian cysts, although rare, is ovarian cancer, which occurs especially in women who have reached menopause, as the risk of ovarian cancer is lower in women who still have menstrual periods.

**What are the side effects of polycystic ovaries?**

The side effects of polycystic ovaries include:
- Ovarian torsion, which occurs when the ovary twists around the ligaments that hold it in place, reducing blood flow to it.
- Endometrial cancer, which can lead to infertility.
- Gestational diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Recurrent miscarriage or premature birth.
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
- High levels of bad cholesterol.
- Cardiovascular disease.
- Depression and eating disorders.

**How ​​long does polycystic ovary syndrome take to be treated?**

 

The treatment period for polycystic ovary syndrome ranges from approximately two months to a year, and this period varies depending on the degree of cysts, their causes, the type of treatment, and the duration of periodic follow-up to ensure the patient's condition.

**Is it possible to recover from polycystic ovary syndrome?**

 

Unfortunately, a definitive cure for ovarian cysts has not yet been discovered, but the painful and annoying symptoms can be reduced by using medications and changing the patient's diet. These solutions have proven highly effective in controlling symptoms and alleviating their side effects.

**Does polycystic ovary syndrome cause infertility?**

 

Polycystic ovary syndrome does not directly cause infertility, but it affects fertility and leads to ovulation interruption in women, which affects the ability to conceive. To face the difficulties of childbearing, a woman should:

Modifying her lifestyle and following appropriate treatments that target the hormones responsible for fertility.

**What are the signs of recovery from polycystic ovary syndrome?**

- Regular menstrual cycle without any worrying interruption.

- Losing excess weight and returning to the ideal weight.

- Disappearance of the annoying symptoms associated with the disease.

- The body's response to fertility treatments and increasing the ability to reproduce.

- Stabilizing the psychological and mood state and eliminating insomnia.

**When does polycystic ovary syndrome need surgery?**

 

Surgery for polycystic ovary syndrome is recommended when other treatments fail, and the side effects increase to pose a risk to the woman's health, which may lead to health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. The surgery is usually performed using a laparoscope to remove the ovarian cyst.

**Side effects and potential repercussions**

 

Ovarian cysts are a condition that affects women and leads to the formation of small cysts in the ovaries. Although they are not life-threatening, they may cause some side effects and potential problems.

**Physical and Psychological Effects**

 

Polycystic ovary syndrome can cause physical and psychological effects. Physically, some women may experience pelvic or back pain, changes in menstrual cycle, weight gain, and skin problems. Psychologically, some women may feel anxious or depressed as a result of the changes in their bodies.

**The Effect of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome on Fertility**

 

Polycystic ovary syndrome can significantly affect a woman's fertility, as she may face difficulties in getting pregnant or other reproductive challenges. However, this does not necessarily mean that she is unable to conceive. Many women with this condition can successfully conceive after following a balanced diet, reducing body weight, and reducing stress levels.

**Disadvantages of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome**

 

- **Infertility**: Polycystic ovary syndrome can lead to difficulties in getting pregnant or infertility, as it affects the ovulation process and the quality of eggs.

- **Menstrual irregularities**: Women may experience irregular or absent menstrual periods, which affects the ability to plan pregnancy and know the ovulation period.

- **Increased hair growth**: Excessive hair growth may occur in unwanted areas such as the face, chest and back, which is known as "Hirsutism".

- **Skin problems**: Polycystic ovary syndrome can cause increased sebum secretion in the skin, leading to acne and pimples.

- **Obesity and metabolic problems**: Polycystic ovary syndrome can lead to weight gain and difficulty losing weight, and increases the risk of metabolic problems such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

- **Mood disorders**: Women may suffer from mood swings and psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety.

- **Increased risk of other diseases**: Polycystic ovary syndrome is associated with an increased risk of other health problems such as thyroid disorders, high blood pressure, cholesterol disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.

**How ​​is polycystic ovary syndrome diagnosed?**

 

- **General examination**: The presence of lumps or abnormalities is detected, in addition to signs of hyperandrogenism such as acne and abnormal hair growth.

- **Blood tests**: These tests reveal disturbances in the levels of some hormones associated with polycystic ovary syndrome, such as low follicle stimulating hormone, or high levels of luteinizing hormone, testosterone, and estrogen.

- **Ultrasound**: It is one of the basic tests to assess the health of the ovaries and measure the thickness of the uterus, as a vaginal device is used to show changes in the ovaries on the screen, and the size of the ovaries in women with polycystic ovary syndrome is often twice the normal size.

- **Laparoscopy**: It is considered a final procedure in the event that non-surgical treatments are unsuccessful, as a lighted camera is inserted into the abdomen under the influence of anesthesia to photograph the internal part and detect any cysts on the ovaries, infections or tumors, and it can be removed if necessary.

**The appropriate diet to treat polycystic ovary syndrome**

 

Following a healthy diet helps treat the problem of polycystic ovary syndrome, so it is recommended to consider the following nutritional points to alleviate the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome:

- Eat sources of fiber daily such as fruits, vegetables and grains.
- Regulate blood sugar levels by eating healthy foods and avoiding foods rich in sugar.
- Avoid foods rich in saturated fats to reduce the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome.
- Eat a meal rich in protein daily, in addition to low-fat dairy.
- Avoid ready-made and processed foods.
- Eat fish two to three times a week, in addition to fish oil, walnuts and pumpkin seeds to meet the body's needs for omega-3.
- Avoid canned foods, bottled water and any foods containing preservatives.
- Reduce the consumption of foods rich in oils and sugars such as salads rich in mayonnaise, pizza, lasagna, and sweets.
- Refrain from eating salad or yogurt with meals.
- Drink squill syrup with vinegar and sugar or vinegar and honey as a home remedy for polycystic ovary syndrome.

**What are some of the complications associated with ovarian cysts?**

 

It is important to have regular pelvic exams, as some women, especially during and after menopause, can experience less common types of ovarian swelling that can only be detected through regular checkups. Some of the complications associated with ovarian cysts include:

- **Ovarian cyst torsion**: Large ovarian cysts can cause the ovaries to move and twist, known as ovarian torsion. This can cause a decrease or complete cessation of blood flow to the ovary, and can be extremely painful. You should see a doctor immediately if you experience severe pelvic pain, accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

- **Ovarian cyst rupture**: When ovarian cysts grow very large, they may rupture, causing severe pain and internal bleeding. 

Consult a doctor immediately for help.

**Ovarian cyst treatment**

Ovarian cysts can be treated through several treatment methods, including:

1. **Hormonal birth control**: Common contraceptive methods such as birth control pills, vaccines, vaginal rings, IUDs, and contraceptive implants can be used. These methods help regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, and help reduce acne and excess hair growth.

2. **Anti-androgen medications**: These medications work to reduce the effect of male hormones that cause hair loss on the scalp, hair growth on the face and body, in addition to reducing acne.

3. **Medications to treat fertility problems**: Certain medications are recommended to improve fertility and treat the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome, as they help reduce levels of male hormones and stimulate ovulation.

4. **Surgery**: In some cases, surgery may be required to treat the ovaries and tissues responsible for producing male hormones. This is usually done through laparoscopic surgery with the use of laser, especially if drug treatments have not worked.

**Treatment of ovarian cysts with herbs**

The following herbs can be used to treat ovarian cysts:

1. **Androgen herbs**: When the body is unable to regulate insulin, male hormone levels may accumulate. There are herbs that work to restore balance between these hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle. It is preferable to consult a doctor before taking any herbal supplements, as their effectiveness has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

2. **Ancha root**: Maca root is a traditional herb used to increase fertility and sexual desire. This root helps achieve hormonal balance and reduce cortisol levels, and also treats depression, which may be a symptom of polycystic ovary syndrome.

3. **Ashwagandha**: Also known as "Indian ginseng", it helps balance cortisol levels, which improves symptoms of stress and polycystic ovary syndrome, making it one of the most prominent herbal treatments.

4. **Basil**: Considered the “queen of herbs,” it treats chemical and metabolic stress in PCOS patients. It also helps lower blood sugar levels, prevent weight gain, and reduce cortisol levels.

Licorice root contains a compound known as Glycyrrhizin, which has a number of unique properties. Licorice root is an anti-inflammatory, and helps regulate sugar metabolism and hormone balance.

As for Tribulus, it helps stimulate ovulation and support a healthy menstrual cycle, and may reduce secretions resulting from PCOS, making it one of the most prominent herbal treatments for this condition.

As for the probiotic herb, it not only supports digestion and digestive health, but also plays an important role in treating PCOS by reducing inflammation and regulating androgen and estrogen levels.

Supplements are an effective way to regulate hormones, insulin resistance, and reduce inflammation associated with PCOS. These supplements include:

- **Inositol**: It is a B vitamin that helps improve insulin resistance and enhances fertility in cases of polycystic ovary syndrome.
- **Chromium**: Chromium supplements may contribute to improving body mass index, which helps in treating polycystic ovary syndrome.
- **Cinnamon**: Studies have shown that cinnamon extract has a positive effect on insulin resistance and regulates the menstrual cycle.
- **Turmeric**: It helps reduce insulin resistance and acts as an anti-inflammatory.
- **Zinc**: It is considered a rare element that enhances fertility and strengthens the immune system.