All women have a risk of developing ovarian cysts during their childbearing years. These cysts commonly appear and disappear without the slightest notice as most cases do not present any symptoms. When this tiny, fluid-filled sac contains solid matter, it is referred to as a complex ovarian cyst.Any woman may experience an ovarian cyst at any point between the stages of puberty and menopause. Located on the surface of or inside the ovaries, these cysts are a natural part of a woman’s menstrual cycle. A cyst that becomes a complex ovarian cyst is not part of this process, however. It’s a rare occurrence.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!What Are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian Cyst are little sac-like pockets of fluid that can occur inside ovaries or on the ovaries/uterus body, and can be the result of various causes. All ovarian cysts, however, fall under one of the following categories: simple cysts or complex cysts.
Simple cysts are the most common and are a result of the menstrual cycle. They form when the ovary does not release an egg, or when an ovarian follicle continues to grow following an egg’s release. Also known as functional cysts, these typically present no symptoms and disappear naturally over the course of a few cycles.
Complex cysts, on the other hand, have nothing to do with a normal menstrual cycle. They are much less common and are typically filled with solid material—like fat, skin, or other tissues or blood.
Types of Complex Ovarian Cysts
Another important aspect of complex ovarian cysts involves the different types of cysts and their effects on the body.
1. Dermoid Ovarian Cyst
As the most common complex ovarian cyst, the dermoid cyst contains bone, teeth, hair, and skin fragments. They increase in size at a slow rate and can grow large enough to shift the ovary in its place, causing more pain.
2. Endometrioma
Also referred to as chocolate cysts, endometrioma cysts form when uterus cells grow elsewhere, such as in the ovaries, bladder, fallopian tubes, or in the bowel. These cysts are filled with excess blood and cause severe pain, headaches, and vaginal bleeding as they grow in size.
3. Cystadenoma
A complex ovarian cyst comprising of the outer ovary cells is known as a cystadenoma. This benign cyst can either be filled with a thick and sticky fluid or a thin and watery fluid. They can rupture, causing severe pain, and grow up to 100 pounds with a 12-inch diameter.
As they grow and twist, cystadenomas put pressure on the bowel and bladder and restrict the blood supply to the ovaries.
The Symptoms of Complex Ovarian Cysts
Although most ovarian cysts do not have any symptoms, there are circumstances that offer varying degrees of pain and other signs. These will depend on the size, stage, and type of cyst.
- Pressure in abdomen
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Frequent urination
- Severe lower abdominal pain
- Irregular periods
- Difficult sexual intercourse
- Heartburn
- Anxiety
Causes of Complex Ovarian Cysts
Most research has yet to determine a cause behind the formation of an ovarian cyst, but it has been proved by Dr Qaisar Ahmed that they are strictly connected with contraceptives and the lubricating oil on condoms and also linked to a hormonal shift or change.
“Each month during your menstrual cycle, a follicle grows on your ovary. The follicle is where an egg is developing. Most months, an egg is released from this follicle, called ovulation. If the follicle fails to break open and release an egg, the fluid stays in the follicle and forms a cyst.”
Unlike these regular follicle cysts, a complex ovarian cyst is not a result of the menstrual cycle process. The three types of complex ovarian cysts have their own sources and can result in overgrowth leading to further complications. This also includes the risk of ovarian cancer.
Endometriomas, in particular, result from endometriosis, a condition that causes uterine tissue found inside the uterus—to grow outside of the uterus. When it grows on the ovaries, it can lead to a complex cyst filled with tissue. It can be quite painful and a doctor’s exam and treatment program are required.
The Risk Factors of a Complex Ovarian Cyst
You should be aware of the various risk factors associated with complex ovarian cysts.
- Genetics
- Menstruation before age of 12
- Irregular periods
- Hypothyroidism
- Obesity
- Infertility and treatments
- Tobacco use
Complications Associated with Complex Ovarian Cysts
A complex ovarian cyst can lead to a number of complications. Some of the more common effects are related to the size. A large complex ovarian cyst has the potential to displace ovaries, twist ovaries: a condition known as ovarian torsion—and press against the bladder, causing a frequent and/or urgent need to urinate.
Endometriosis has the potential to cause fertility problems.
Although the overwhelming majority of ovarian cysts are not cancerous, there is an association in that complex ovarian cysts do seem to increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
Complications that can rise from a complex ovarian cyst rupturing include:
- Bleeding
- High fever
- Extreme pain
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
Complex Ovarian Cysts and Cancer Risk
The link between ovarian cysts and cancer is relatively loose, and having a postmenopausal ovarian cyst does not automatically mean cancer.
Physicians have identified a set of parameters to monitor. These include the frequency of new symptoms (12 times per month), as well as the makeup and appearance of the cyst (tissue partitions, solid material).
If the cyst meets the criteria, doctors will biopsy the cyst and look for cancer markers. Even at this point, however, it’s not necessarily going to render a cancer diagnosis.
About 10% of ovarian cancers are passed on through family genetics. If it’s in the family, it’s best have a blood test to identify your risk. If there is an increased risk, possible preventative measures include ovary and fallopian tube removal.
Diagnosing Complex Ovarian Cyst
For a proper diagnosis, you should seek advice from a medical professional. You will need to discuss any symptoms, medical history, and family history, and have a pelvic exam. The doctor may suggest no treatment and request a follow-up appointment. You may need to have the following tests to determine the cause of symptoms present, including a pregnancy test.
- Ultrasound
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Endocervical swabs
- Urinalysis
- Serum biomarker testing
Complex Ovarian Cyst Treatment
We now know most complex ovarian cysts may disappear on their own, but if not, you may require surgery. Treatment will depend on the size, type, accompanying symptoms, and the age of the patient.
Ultrasound – An ultrasound test will be repeated over a short time period to determine if the cyst is shrinking or has disappeared.
Oral contraceptives – The birth control pill is prescribed to help prevent ovarian cancer in those with recurring outbreaks of these cysts.
Surgery – Exploratory laparotomy or pelvic laparoscopy will be performed on those patients with presenting symptoms, large complex ovarian cysts, and those pre- or post-menopausal.
An ovarian cyst can be referred to as a normal fact of life for some women, at least in the cases where it goes unnoticed. A complex ovarian cyst may pose more of a serious health condition as it can be a type of cyst that grows to interfere with the flow of blood and put pressure on vital organs.
The various types of complex ovarian cysts can have mild to severe symptoms. If time does not diminish the cyst, you may need to consult with a medical professional and more serious cases may require surgery.
Allopathic treatment for ovarian cyst
Treatment will depend on factors like patient’s age, symptoms and what’s likely causing the cyst.
Watchful waiting
Functional ovarian cysts usually go away without treatment. If the cyst is likely functional, doctor may suggest a wait-and-see approach. Advise follow-up ultrasound within a few weeks or months after the first diagnosis to see if the cyst has resolved on its own or not.
Ovarian cyst medications
Almost all allopathic doctors advise medications containing hormones (such as birth control pills) to stop ovulation and prevent future cysts from forming.
Ovarian cyst surgery
If a cyst is causing symptoms and getting bigger, allopathic doctor advises surgery to remove it. The type of surgery depends on the size of the cyst and how it appears on the ultrasound. The different procedures used include:
- Laparoscopy: This is a procedure where doctor inserts a small camera through a small incision in your abdomen. They view patient’s reproductive organs and pelvic cavity using the device. The ovarian cyst can be removed through tiny incisions (ovarian cystectomy).
- Laparotomy: A doctor may perform this procedure if the cyst is very large or if there are other concerns.
If the doctor suspects cancer, consult with a cancer specialist, or gynecological oncologist, about the best treatment options.
Homeopathic Treatment for Ovarian Cysts
In Homeopathy treating a cyst is a normal and easy task. Here are very few medicines for ovarian cyst:
Lachesis Muta
Lachesis Muta is best for left sided ovarian cysts. Swelling and pain in the left ovary that gets better during menses, short and scanty menses, and menstrual bleeding that is blackish in color. Climacteric troubles, palpitation, flashes of heat, haemorrhages, vertex headache, fainting spells; worse, pressure of clothes. Menses too short, too feeble; pains all relieved by the flow (Eupion). Left ovary very painful and swollen, indurated. Mammae inflamed, bluish. Coccyx and sacrum pain (ovarian cysts), especially on rising from sitting posture. Acts especially well at beginning and close of menstruation.
Lycopodium Clavatum
Lycopodium Clavatum is best for right side ovarian cysts. Burning or boring pains may be felt in the ovary. Menses too late; last too long, too profuse. Vagina dry. Coition painful. Right ovarian pain, Ovarian cyst. Varicose veins of pudenda. Leucorrhoea, acrid, with burning in vagina. Discharge of blood from genitals during stool. Nymphomania with terrible teasing desire in external organs.-Itching, burning, and gnawing in vulva.
Menstruation too late; lasts too long; sometimes suppression of; profuse, protracted; flow partly black, clotted, partly bright red or partly serum; with labour-like pains followed by swooning. Varices on the genitals.
Colocynthis
Boring pain in ovary. Must draw up double, with great restlessness. Round, small cystic tumors in ovaries or broad ligaments. Wants abdomen supported by pressure. Bearing-down cramps, causing her to bend double. Ovarian Cysts.
The pain varies in character, ranging from cramping, stitching to tensive. Burning sensation in the ovaries that gets better upon bending over double and a sensitive ovarian region that seems hard and swollen are the symptoms that indicate the need for this medicine.
Apis Mellifica
Cysts that cause pain during intercourse. A stinging, sharp, cutting pain from the ovary radiating down the thigh, soreness and tenderness over the ovarian region, heaviness in the ovarian region and pain in the ovaries during menstruation. Edema of labia; relieved by cold water. Soreness and stinging pains; ovaritis; worse in right ovary.
Amenorrhoea or menorrhagia. Inflammation, induration, swelling, and dropsy of the ovaries. Weight and pain in either ovarian region, predominantly right side. Ovarian cysts. The ovaries feel better by lying on right side. Enlargement of the right ovary with pain in the left pectoral region and cough. Sharp, cutting, stinging pain in the swollen ovary; worse during menstruation.
Ovarian tumours, with stinging pains like bee-stings. Metritis, peritonitis, with stinging, thrusting pains. Dropsy of the ovaries; dropsy of the uterus. Threatened miscarriage in the early months. Abortion. Dropsy in the latter part of pregnancy attended with puerperal convulsions. Ulceration and engorgement of os uteri. Large and painful swelling of the labia, with heat and stinging pains.
Erysipelatous inflammation of the breasts. Swelling and hardness of the mammae threatening to ulcerate. Scirrhous or open cancer of the mammae, with stinging, burning pains. Dysmenorrhoea, with severe ovarian pains. Ovarian cysts. Metrorrhagia profuse, with heavy abdomen, faintness, stinging pain. Sense of tightness. Bearing-down, as if menses were to appear. Ovarian tumors, metritis with stinging pains. Great tenderness over abdomen and uterine region.
Pulsatilla Nigricans
Nymphomania. Drawing, pressive, spasmodic and contractive pain extending towards uterus with qualmishness, ovarian cysts. Burning (sticking) pain in vagina and pudenda. Metrorrhagia (discharge now stopping, and then stronger again, of coagulated, clotted blood, or with false labour-pains). Menstrual blood black, with clots of mucus, or pale and serous. Catamenia irregular, tardy, or premature, of too short or too long duration, or entirely suppressed, with colic, hysterical spasms in abdomen, hepatic pains, gastralgia, pain in loins, nausea and vomiting, shivering and paleness of face, megrim, vertigo, moral affections, tenesmus of anus and bladder, stitches in side, and many other sufferings before, during, or after period.
Suppression of menses (especially in elderly women in whom they usually occur at full moon). Delay of first menses.
Leucorrhoea, thick, like cream. False pregnancy. During pregnancy: nausea, morning sickness; varicose veins, bluish (cyanotic).
Sabina Officinalis
Almost insatiable desire for coition with corresponding gratification. Sexual desire greatly increased (almost amounting to nymphomania). Contractive pain in region of uterus. Ovarian cysts. Stitches deep in vagina. Sanguineous congestion in uterus. Haemorrhages of partly pale red, partly clotted, or of very thin, discoloured, offensive-smelling blood.
Metrorrhagia with discharge of clotted or bright-red blood, and pains resembling labour pains in the sacrum and in the groins. Metrorrhagia, bright blood. Menses continue too long. Menstrual discharge partly fluid, partly clotted and offensive; it may be either bright red or dark and coagulated; flows mostly in paroxysms, which are brought on by slightest motion; or flow ceases when walking about (menses only when lying down).
Suppressed catamenia with very offensive-smelling leucorrhoea (like rotten meat). Miscarriage (especially in the third month). Perceptible swelling of mammae. Tingling in mammae. Inflammation of the uterus after parturition. Retained placenta. After-pains with sensitiveness of abdomen.
Sepia Succus
Pelvic organs relaxed. Bearing-down sensation as if everything would escape through vulva, must cross limbs to prevent protrusion, or press against vulva. Leucorrhoea yellow, greenish; with much itching. Menses Too late and scanty, irregular; early and profuse; sharp clutching pains. Violent stitches upward in the vagina, from uterus to umbilicus. Ovarian cysts. Prolapse of uterus and vagina. Morning sickness. Vagina painful, especially on coition.
P. S: This article is only for doctors having good knowledge about Homeopathy and allopathy, for learning purpose(s).
For proper consultation and treatment, please visit our clinic.
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None of above-mentioned medicine(s) is/are the full/complete treatment, but just hints for treatment; every patient has his/her own constitutional medicine.
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Dr. Sayyad Qaisar Ahmed (MD {Ukraine}, DHMS), Abdominal Surgeries, Oncological surgeries, Gastroenterologist, Specialist Homeopathic Medicines.
Senior research officer at Dnepropetrovsk state medical academy Ukraine.
Location: Al-Haytham clinic, Umer Farooq Chowk Risalpur Sadder (0923631023, 03119884588), K.P.K, Pakistan.
Find more about Dr Sayed Qaisar Ahmed at:
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