5 Signs Your Ovarian Cyst Needs Treatment

Some ovarian cysts issue loud warning signs, telling you it's time to get help now. At Modern OBGYN Care, esteemed OB/GYNs Dr. Miguel Torres and Dr. Marcela Torres are here to help you recognize those red flags.

Knowing the difference between normal symptoms and signs of an ovarian cyst crisis can help safeguard both your fertility and overall health.

Watch out for the following issues.

1. Ongoing serious pelvic pain

Most of us have occasional cramps. That's normal during your cycle. With normal cramps, simple measures like ibuprofen and a heating pad usually do the trick.

But, if you have severe, stabbing pain that just won't quit, particularly on one side of the lower belly, it could be a sign of an ovarian cyst rupture or other serious problem.

2. Persistent bloating

Period-related bloating usually goes away in a few days. Long-term bloating that lasts for weeks is another matter. 

If you feel constantly bloated or even have trouble eating because you always feel full, it could point to a growing ovarian cyst that's affecting other abdominal organs.

3. Irregular periods

Some types of ovarian cysts disrupt hormone levels, most notably the estrogen and progesterone that rule your menstrual cycle. You could experience missed periods, spotting between periods, or other unusual bleeding.

4. Painful sex

Pain during sexual intercourse may be a sign of deeper ovarian cysts. This issue can be particularly common with endometriomas, aka "chocolate cysts."

These cysts, connected to endometriosis, occur when the uterine lining grows on the ovaries and turns into blood-filled cysts. Those cysts can get big enough to pressure the sensitive nerves nearby. Or, they can rupture or twist the ovary, causing severe pain.

5. Sudden, sharp pain with other symptoms

We mentioned ovarian twisting (torsion) above. When it happens, you may feel a sudden, very sharp pain with powerful nausea, vomiting, or sudden fever. These symptoms are a medical emergency.

Solutions for ovarian cysts

Solutions for ovarian cysts depend on your symptoms and the cyst type. We may recommend:

Watchful waiting

Many simple cysts resolve naturally, especially if they're small and aren’t causing symptoms. If we discover a cyst during a routine check-up for something else, we may recommend monitoring. 

You may need imaging tests like ultrasounds or blood work to evaluate the cyst’s size, type, and potential health risks.

Medications

Pain relievers or hormone-regulating medications can help manage discomfort and related symptoms.

Birth control pills

Hormonal contraceptives can help prevent new cysts from forming and regulate your menstrual cycle for better hormone balance.

Surgical cyst removal

If the cyst is large, painful, or concerning, our doctors may recommend minimally invasive surgery to remove it.

Ovary removal

In rare or more serious cases, you could need ovary removal. That doesn't necessarily mean you'll need uterus removal (hysterectomy.) It all depends on your risk factors and unique needs.

The takeaway for ovarian cyst symptoms

Your body has a way of telling you when something’s off, so don't ignore it. Whether it’s unusual pain, irregular periods, or ongoing bloating, checking in with your OB/GYN at Modern OBGYN Care can answer your questions and protect your health.

Call our Pembroke Pines office at 754-217-4181 to schedule your consultation. Your peace of mind is worth the visit.