Symptoms of a Ovarian Cyst

Ovarian cysts are sacs of fluid that develop in or on the ovary. These cysts usually cause no symptoms and go away within two or three menstrual cycles. However, large cysts or cysts that do not go away may cause symptoms that affect the reproductive, urinary and digestive systems. A physician should evaluate these symptoms so that a proper diagnosis can be made and treatment started in a timely manner.

Pelvic Pain

There are two types of pelvic pain that are associated with ovarian cysts. According to Laurie Rosenblum from New York University's Langone Medical Center, a dull, chronic ache is caused by direct pressure on the ovaries and other pelvic structures. Bleeding can cause a sharper, more intense pain, as blood leaking into or around the ovaries can cause irritation of the surrounding tissues. Doctors use pelvic examination and diagnostic tools such as ultrasound and CT scans to determine if an ovarian cyst causes the pelvic pain.

Dyspareunia

Physicians from the Mayo Clinic define dyspareunia as pelvic pain during intercourse. This can be a symptom of an ovarian cyst because large cysts may put pressure on other pelvic organs. During intercourse, the cyst may also be compressed by changes in the size and position of the pelvic organs. This can also cause pelvic pain. Any pelvic pain during intercourse should be reported to a physician for diagnosis and treatment.

Nausea and Vomiting

Large ovarian cysts can cause nausea and vomiting because of the pressure they place on surrounding structures. If a cyst is bleeding, the leakage of blood into other structures can cause irritation that contributes to nausea and vomiting. Because these symptoms are associated with a number of other medical conditions, their presence does not necessarily indicate that an ovarian cyst is present. Persistent nausea and vomiting should be discussed with a physician so that diagnostic tests can be ordered and a cause determined.

Difficulty Urinating

Medical professionals from the Mayo Clinic indicate that large cysts can put pressure on the bladder and rectum. As a large cyst grows, a woman may have difficulty completely emptying the bladder or experience pain when having a bowel movement. Because these symptoms can be caused by other urinary conditions, a physical examination and pelvic ultrasound can help doctors determine if an ovarian cyst is the problem.

Menstrual Irregularities

According to physicians from Johns Hopkins University Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, menstrual irregularities can b a symptom of an ovarian cyst. These irregularities include missed menstrual periods, painful periods, and heavy bleeding during the menstrual period. These changes can be caused by the pressure a cyst places on the ovaries or uterus. Because these organs are responsible for the menstrual cycle, the pressure can cause changes in ovulation or in how the lining of the uterus is shed each month.