Gynecologist warned about dangerous symptoms of ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts are formations filled with fluid that can appear as a result of normal physiological processes, as well as pathological changes. However, not all cysts are dangerous. Some of them are able to disappear on their own, as if dissolving into the body, while others require treatment. Maxim Voynov, a gynecologist and surgeon at the SM Clinic Center for Reproductive Health, told Izvestia about this on April 30.
"There are many follicles in the ovaries — special "sacs" in which eggs mature. During the menstrual cycle, namely in the middle of the cycle, the so-called dominant follicle is formed. But if one of the follicles does not burst during ovulation or its development is disrupted, a cyst may form from it," the gynecologist explained.
He added that such formations are often considered functional, since they occur naturally and often disappear on their own when the hormonal background stabilizes. However, there are other cases where the formation of a cyst indicates the need for a more detailed examination.
According to the doctor, functional ones include a follicular cyst (occurs if the dominant follicle does not release the egg (ovulation) and continues to accumulate fluid) and a corpus luteum cyst (forms after ovulation, when the progesterone-producing structure fills with blood).
"Both types of cysts, as a rule, do not cause pronounced symptoms and can disappear on their own within several cycles," the specialist emphasized.
He attributed endometrioid cysts to pathological cysts associated with endometriosis, a condition in which cells similar to those of the uterine mucosa grow outside of it. Such cysts are often accompanied by pain and menstrual irregularities. Also, dermoids are complex formations that can contain any body tissue: skin, hair, even teeth, and so on. They are not susceptible to self-absorption and require surgical removal. In addition, cystadenomas require attention — these tumors can be filled with both liquid and thick substances. Their size may increase over time, and if symptoms occur, surgical treatment may be required.
At the same time, the gynecologist-surgeon emphasized that it is important to identify the cyst in time and determine its type. Diagnosis usually includes the following methods: ultrasound (ultrasound), blood tests, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT), diagnostic laparoscopy. According to him, the approach to treating cysts is determined not only by their type, but also by their size, the presence of symptoms and the increasing threat of complications.
In particular, treatment may involve conservative observation: functional cysts, as a rule, do not require active intervention. In the absence of pain and other unpleasant symptoms, the doctor may recommend simply monitoring the process with regular ultrasound.
"In some cases, hormone therapy may be required — in case of menstrual irregularities or the reappearance of cysts, drugs are prescribed that normalize the hormonal background and reduce the likelihood of new cysts," Voynov said.
Surgical intervention is necessary, according to the doctor, if the cyst causes persistent pain, the risk of complications increases rapidly or appears (for example, twisting of the appendages), a low—traumatic operation is used that does not require incisions, laparoscopy. However, in rare cases, open surgery may be required — laparotomy. This approach allows not only to remove the pathological formation, but also to preserve the function of the ovaries.
Earlier, on April 24, Voynov told Izvestia about the serious causes of abdominal pain. According to him, sometimes such a symptom may be associated with temporary or non-dangerous conditions, but often it is a signal of serious gynecological problems. Neglecting such pains can lead to dangerous complications. Separately, the doctor spoke about acute pain in the lower abdomen, which can indicate serious conditions such as ectopic pregnancy.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
