Overview of Complex Ovarian Cysts
Many women experience ovarian cysts. They usually do not need to be treated because they are usually harmless. However, complex ovarian cysts are less common and more cause for concern. Complex ovarian cysts are different than simple ones in that they can consist of both solid and liquid matter. The three common types of complex ovarian cysts are dermoid cysts, endometiomas, and cystdenomas.
The cells that produce human eggs, otherwise know as ova can begin to form what is known as a dermoid cyst. The cells within the ova are the basic building blocks of every type of tissue that grows within the human body. This is why hair, skin and even teeth tissue can be found within dermoid cysts. While generally no cause for concern due to their low chance of becoming cancerous they can still be very painful as they grow, possibly twisting the ovaries.
A type of complex ovarian cyst which occurs when a woman has endometriosis is called an “endometrioma”. Women with endometriomas suffer from uterine cells that grow outside the uterus and become attached to their ovaries, creating a growth after several periods. An endometrial cyst could become very large, reaching the size of a tennis ball or even bigger. This disease may be partially blamed on genetics. The symptoms of endometriosis include painful periods, pain before or after one’s period or during intercourse, painful urination or bowel movements, general tiredness and erratic menstrual cycles.
Cystadenomas are a complex ovarian cyst affecting ovarian tissue. . Liquid-filled cystadenomas can cause pain if the ovaries become twisted from their development. There are two types of cystadenomas. Serous cystadenomas contain a thin liquid and can grow to 2-6 inches in diameter. In comparison, the liquid in a mucinous cystadenoma is sticky and gelatinous. Mucinous cystadenomas may grow as large as 6-12 inches in diameter.
Complex ovarian cysts may also manifest symptoms that mimic those of pregnancy: tender breasts, nausea and vomiting. If one experiences severe pain in the abdomen or pelvis, medical attention should be sought. Endometriosis or ectopic pregnancies can produce painful and noticeable symptoms similar to those of complex ovarian cysts. The symptoms are differentiated through pelvic pain, pain before or after menstrual periods, and pain during intercourse. They might also experience the absence of menstrual periods or unusual bleeding patterns.
A pelvic examination is needed to diagnose ovarian cysts. Pelvic ultrasounds can help to confirm these diagnoses. Doctors will often order pregnancy tests to rule out pregnancy, and will even order blood tests. Women who are diagnosed with complex ovarian cysts should be certain to get in touch with their physicians immediately any time they suffer intense pelvic or abdominal pain.
A complex ovarian cyst must be examined properly to find out if it is cancerous or not. While complex ovarian cysts are not always cancerous, proper steps and testing should be done by a doctor to make sure while taking into account things such as patients symptoms, age and history when coming to a proper diagnosis.