Exploring the Causes of Ovarian Cysts: What You Should Know

Ovarian cysts are a common issue among women of reproductive age. They consist of fluid-filled sacs, which may be present internally or externally around the eggs(organs). There can be multiple causes for ovarian cysts. Most cysts do not harm and fade away without medical intervention; however, few will cause pain and other complications.

Although, these cysts can develop due to various causes to provide a healthy reproductive system. Some of them include hormonal imbalance, endometriosis, pelvic inflammation and some medications women use.

Common Causes of Ovarian Cysts

Hormonal Imbalances

The Role of Hormones in Cyst Formation:

• Estrogen and Progesterone play Diverse but Essential Roles in Menstrual Cycle Regulation for Women. At high oestrogen and low progesterone levels, the growth of ovarian follicles may be stimulated, which may also have not matured into eggs or, at times, fall alive as cysts.
• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and Luteinising Hormone (LH): These two hormones are responsible for regular menstrual cycles by regulating oestrogen and progesterone production. Hence, any hormone imbalance can disrupt regular ovulation, causing cyst formation.
• Androgens: exist in women generally but at lower levels than in men. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is seen primarily with the over-production of these male sex hormones that produce several tiny cysts on ovaries.

Hormonal conditions leading to cysts:

• PCOS
• Endometriosis
• Premature ovarian failure
• Menopause

Endometriosis

In cases where endometrial tissues are found outside their normal site (such as on ovaries, fallopian tubes, or, in some cases, even behind pelvic organs), the whole thing is known as endometriosis. But there are some cases where hormonal alterations do take place, causing their reaction at the same time as those inside the womb. Ultimately, this can cause swollen tissues that may develop into small sac-like structures (cysts).

How does it form cysts?

Endometriomas are cysts that develop when the endometrial tissue proliferates on the ovaries. They are often filled with blackish, aged blood that can cause pain. It should be noted that other types of outside placement are natural but less frequent than the uterus can experience. This condition is accompanied by a lot of pain and inflammation, leading to cyst formations, with scarring as one of their primary causes.

Adhesions in the body may lead to the formation of endometriosis. These bands of scar tissue are composed of various organs that might be compressed, affecting the ovary and hence can cause ovarian cysts.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy causes significant hormonal changes, which can affect the ovaries. It is common for women to develop functional cysts during pregnancy; however, these cysts are usually non harmful and often leak themselves.

During pregnancy, functional cysts can be classified as:

• Corpus Luteum Cysts: These cysts emanate from the follicle containing the fertilised egg. They produce hormones for sustaining early pregnancies and disappear around the end of the first trimester.
• Theca Lutein Cysts: These result when the ovaries produce more luteinising hormone (LH) due to high levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a pregnancy hormone. Typically, they exist bilaterally and can grow to quite a large size.

During pregnancy, hormones quickly upsurge, triggering the growth of ovarian follicles. If they do not mature into ova and secrete, they can consider becoming cysts in one way or another. Increased blood circulation may also lead to an increase in cysts during pregnancy. In women who undergo fertility treatments, sometimes pregnancy can intensify OHSS, a situation where multiple cysts on the ovaries appear.

Risk Factors for Ovarian Cysts

Age and Menstrual Cycle

Impact of Age on Cyst Development:

• Reproductive Years: Women’s reproductive age (usually between puberty and menopause) is the most common period during which ovarian cysts may occur because of hormone fluctuations connected with the menstrual cycle.
• Menopause: The chance of developing these cysts decreases significantly after menopause. However, certain women may still experience their formation.
• Perimenopause: Menopause can also be linked to hormonal disturbances and a greater incidence of cysts.

Irregularity in menstrual cycles may be an indication of hormonal imbalance that enhances chances for cyst creation, or it could show a sign of menstruation problems such as heavy bleeding, which might result from hormonal disorders and sometimes lead to ovarian cysts (endometriosis). It could also cause painful periods.

Family History and Genetics

Individuals are likely to have an increased risk if others in their family suffer from ovarian cysts or similar conditions.

Hereditary Ovarian Cancer Syndromes (HOCS) exist in rare genetic forms; therefore, they raise one’s risks for both developing ovarian cancer and creating heretofore unreleased cysts. Some notorious genetic loci linked with HOCS are BRCA1 and BRCA2. A family history of endometriosis increases the likelihood that someone will develop the disease, which may also result in getting ovarian cysts.

Things to do to avoid the risk:

• Regular risk assessment
• Genetic testing
• Early detection

Treatment of Ovarian Cysts

BLK Max Super Speciality Hospital has a reputation for providing effective treatment facilities to women dealing with ovarian cysts. We have experienced doctors and a strong team of dedicated medical staff. Thus, we ensure you get the best possible treatment. Some of the common treatment options of ovarian cysts are:

• Observation: Doctors may recommend a “wait-and-see” approach for severe, painless cysts. Ultrasonic scans show that cysts are growing constantly.
• Pain Management: Any discomfort arising from ovarian cysts can be alleviated by taking pain relievers.
• Hormonal Therapy: Sometimes, hormonal drugs may help control menstrual periods and reduce the risk of developing cysts.
• Surgery: Surgical removal might be needed if a cyst is significant, is thought to be cancerous or if it causes severe pain. These small incisions and camera-assisted methods are used during laparoscopic surgery to locate the ovaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the leading causes of ovarian cysts?

These are the leading causes of ovarian cysts:

• Ovulation
• Hormonal problems
• Endometriosis
• Pregnancy
• Pelvic infection

2. Can ovarian cysts lead to cancer?

Yes, some ovarian cysts can be cancerous, but this is rare. Less than 1% of ovarian cysts are cancerous.

3. How can I tell if I have an ovarian cyst?

These are the following symptoms:

• Pain
• Menstrual irregularities
• Bloating
• Swelling

4. What should I do if I suspect I have an ovarian cyst?

If you think you have an ovarian cyst, you should see a doctor. You can contact your doctor or gynaecologist if you have symptoms.

5. Are there ways to prevent ovarian cysts naturally?

Ensuring adequate intake of necessary vitamins and minerals can improve ovarian follicle growth and ovulation rate, decreasing the risk of ovarian cysts.

6. Which doctor is best for an ovarian cyst?

If you're experiencing symptoms of an ovarian cyst, you should see an experienced gynaecologist or gynecologic oncologist.