1. Learn the Nature of Ovarian Cysts
Many women experience ovarian cysts which can cause pain and other associated symptoms. Cysts contain fluids or other solid substances. When these cysts rupture, they can have life-threatening consequences. In most instances, these cysts resolve on their own without treatment, but they can rupture at some point to cause severe symptoms.
2. Be Aware of the Symptoms
Since symptoms that may indicate a ruptured ovarian cyst include pain or ache in the area of the pelvis, pain during intercourse, breast tenderness, nausea and vomiting, fullness in the abdomen and rectal pressure. If you experience any of these, call your doctor for assessment and treatment.
3. Act Quickly
When an ovarian cyst ruptures, it is imperative to have a medical assessment as soon as possible to assess for damage and other complications. There is an immediate need to get the situation stabilized so that the appropriate medical care can minimize the injury. If the symptoms are not severe, go to your gynecologist for testing and intervention. If you are experiencing severe pain, go to the nearest emergency room.
4. Testing to Assess Damage
Testing for the possible rupture of an ovarian cyst may include ultrasound examination or laparoscopy to assess the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Ultrasound is a painless procedure that uses sound waves to assess tissues and structures. During laparoscopy, a surgeon makes a small incision in the abdomen to insert a scope to visualize the structures.
5. Individualized Treatment
The treatment you may require depends on the size and type of the cyst, your age and your symptoms. If you have no symptoms but an ultrasound indicates that you have a cyst filled with fluid, your physician may opt for you to follow-up with regular sonograms to assess for changes in the size of the cyst. To prevent future cysts, your doctor may prescribe birth control pills, which also lower your risk for developing ovarian cancer. If the cyst is large enough to cause pain and other symptoms, you may need to have it surgically removed. Remember that fast diagnosis and treatment measurably improves your chances for a successful outcome.
