Ovarian cysts are more common than you might think. Sometimes, they cause no symptoms at all – and in some cases, they can even disappear on their own! Keep reading to uncover everything you need to know.
In the 21st episode of SharPasand, Hafsa suddenly falls to the ground in severe abdominal pain. Shazmeen reacts by quickly taking her to the doctor. After examining her, the doctor mentions that the ultrasound shows some issues that need to be investigated further and advises them to visit a gynecologist.
The gynecologist then reveals that Hafsa has a cyst that needs to be surgically removed. Curious and worried, Shazia, Hafsa’s mother, asks, “Is it cancer? Can it cause infertility after marriage?” You might also be wondering – what exactly is a cyst, and can it really affect fertility?
If these questions are on your mind, keep reading. This article covers everything – from ovarian cysts to their treatment, busting common infertility myths – using clinically proven information from credible medical sources!
What Is An Ovarian Cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid‑filled sac that develops in or on an ovary, which is part of the female reproductive system where eggs mature each month. These cysts are very common, especially during the reproductive years, and most are harmless. Research suggests that about 1 in 10 to 1 in 4 women (roughly 10%–30%) may develop at least one ovarian cyst during their lifetime, and many of these cause no symptoms and go undetected without an ultrasound.
Types Of Ovarian Cysts
1. Functional Cysts (Most Common)
These are linked to your menstrual cycle and include:
Follicular cysts – when the ovarian follicle doesn’t release an egg and keeps growing.
Corpus luteum cysts – when the follicle releases the egg but doesn’t shrink afterward.
These usually go away within a few menstrual cycles and rarely cause problems.
2. Other Types (Less Common)
Dermoid cysts – can contain different kinds of tissue (like skin or hair).
Cystadenomas – develop on the ovary’s surface.
Endometriomas – related to endometriosis and filled with old blood.
Cancerous cysts – rare, more likely after menopause.
Symptoms – When To Pay Attention
Many cysts cause no symptom – they’re found by accident during a routine checkup. But symptoms can occur, especially if a cyst grows large, ruptures, or twists an ovary.
Mild or no symptoms:
-Often no pain
-Small cysts found incidentally
Possible signs:
-Dull or sharp pain in the lower abdomen
-Bloating or a feeling of fullness
-Pressure or heaviness in the belly
-Pain during intercourse or painful periods
Seek immediate help if you notice:
-Sudden, severe abdominal pain
-Pain with fever or vomiting
-Signs of shock (lightheadedness, rapid breathing, cold skin)
These could mean a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion (twisting) – emergencies that need urgent care.
Is Surgery The Only Option For Cyst Removal?
Not all ovarian cysts require surgery. Many cysts go away on their own over time, especially functional cysts, and some can be managed with proper medication like hormonal therapy to prevent new cysts from forming.
However, surgery may be necessary if the cyst:
-Doesn’t go away on its own
-Keeps growing
-Causes persistent pain or discomfort
-Appears unusual on an ultrasound
-Contains solid material or shows signs that it may not be benign
When surgery is needed, the options include laparoscopy (minimally invasive, small incisions) or open surgery, depending on the cyst’s size and complexity.
Do Ovarian Cysts Cause Infertility?
This is one of the most common worries – but the answer is reassuring in most cases:
Functional cysts – the most common type – do NOT affect fertility.
Dermoid cysts and cystadenomas generally do not affect fertility either.
Some cysts related to endometriosis (endometriomas) or conditions like PCOS can interfere with ovulation and fertility.
But having one cyst once does not mean you can’t conceive. Most women with ovarian cysts go on to have healthy pregnancies. If fertility is a concern, speak with your healthcare provider – they can guide you based on your specific case.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, including ovarian cysts. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information found in this article. Individual cases may vary, and only a healthcare professional can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, WHO, NCBI, and Medline Plus.
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