Cysts are common and usually harmless growths on the ovaries. They can, however, sometimes indicate a much more serious problem as well. In most cases, they don't lead to any problems or symptoms in the women who are ovulating. With each menstrual cycle, a fully functioning ovary releases a mature egg from a cyst that is fluid-filled.

However, early diagnosis is key to preventing more serious problems. So, read on to learn about ovarian cyst symptoms, and don't hesitate to see your doctor in case you experience these symptoms.

Ovarian Cysts and Their Risks

It's only when there is an abnormality in the menstrual cycle that problems can arise. The ovary produces cysts every month in response to hormones. A cyst can be a sign of an ovary twisting, bleeding, or becoming enlarged if it is painful; it may also make it difficult to get pregnant. An ovarian cyst that occurs with a positive pregnancy test is concerning for ectopic pregnancy and should be evaluated immediately.

What is the Right Time to See Your Doctor?

A woman experiencing any of the following ovarian cyst symptoms should see her OB/GYN immediately.

1. Pelvic pain

An ovarian cyst may cause pelvic pain that is sharp, dull, continuous, or intermittent. Aside from being more painful during your period, ovarian cysts often form or enlarge during that period, which can also cause pain. There can be sudden and severe pain in the pelvis as a result of cyst rupture.

2. Bloating

A growing ovarian cyst may cause unusual bloating, although many women experience it during their period.

3. Gaining Unexplained Weight

In rare instances, ovarian cysts, which can be associated with bloating, can grow large, and their presence will significantly affect your weight. If you experience unexplained gaining of body weight without the intake of that many calories, ovarian cysts can be the reason or fellow symptom of the common medical condition. You should consult with a fertility expert without any delay.

4. Pain During Sex

In women with endometriosis or ovarian cysts, the uterine tissues grow outside the uterus, causing pain during sex. Ovarian cysts are likely to cause pain during sexual intercourse, which you can also identify and consult your doctor.

5. Having Trouble Getting Pregnant

It has been noted that women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or Bilateral Polycystic Ovaries sometimes struggle to become pregnant due to ovarian cysts that form over time as a result of these medical conditions.

6. Nausea & Vomiting

Excess growth of the ovarian cysts in the uterus can twist your ovaries and put pressure on the pelvic region. This also leads to the symptoms like feeling nauseated and vomiting.

In order to get a good idea of cysts, ultrasound is the best way to do it. In addition to CT scans and MRIs, other imaging techniques can also be done. Your doctor may recommend draining the cyst, removing the ovary, or using hormones to suppress ovulation based on your symptoms.

Benign cysts are more common than malignant ones, and it's only the malignant cysts that need surgery. A hormonal birth control pill may also lower the risk of developing other benign cysts.

Ovarian cysts are common and can often be treated without surgery. However, it's important to be able to identify the signs and symptoms of an ovarian cyst so you can receive the necessary treatment as soon as possible. We hope this information helped you become more familiar with the signs of ovarian cysts. In case of questions or concerns, do not hesitate to consult your doctor.