Ovarian cysts on an ultrasound can seem quite alarming, but they are mostly harmless and go away on their own without requiring treatment. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs present on the surface or inside the ovaries. They are very common, especially in women of childbearing age.
Although they don’t usually cause any trouble, some ovarian cysts can enlarge and might rupture. It’s important to get ovarian cyst treatment in Thane if you experience persistent pelvic pain, bloating, irregular periods, painful intercourse, and frequent trips to the restroom. In the meantime, here’s all about how fast ovarian cysts grow.
Factors Influencing Growth
Here are the factors that influence the growth of ovarian cysts :
Type of Cyst
Functional Cyst: The most common type is a functional cyst, which develops when the follicles (that produce and release eggs) don’t dissolve. It can accumulate fluid and turn into a cyst. These cysts can grow quite quickly, but usually don’t exceed 5 cm in diameter. They dissolve automatically as you approach your menstrual cycle.
Dermoid Cysts: Unlike functional cysts, dermoid cysts grow slowly and might take years to show symptoms. They are often detected in routine pelvic tests.
Endometriomas: Endometrial-like tissues can grow outside the uterus and may attach to the ovaries, resulting in the formation of endometriomas. These cysts tend to grow slowly, only a few millimeters annually.
PCOS: Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) might develop several small, immature follicles in the ovaries. These aren’t exactly the cysts, though.
Age
Your age also plays a role in determining the type and growth rate of a cyst. Younger women in their childbearing age are more likely to develop functional cysts that are usually harmless. These cysts, however, are less common in postmenopausal women.
Since women after menopause rarely develop functional cysts (as they don’t ovulate), any cyst that develops during this time requires medical evaluation.
Underlying Medical Condition
Endometriosis, PCOS, and other medical conditions can affect cyst growth. Endometriosis, for example, can cause the growth of endometrial tissue in and around the ovaries. These tissues might develop and enlarge.
Monitoring and Treatment
For functional cysts, watchful waiting is your best bet. These cysts might develop and dissolve on their own. Your doctor might order ultrasounds to track the cysts’ growth. Sometimes, birth control pills are prescribed to prevent the new cysts from developing, although they may not work on the existing ones.
If a cyst grows too rapidly or is above five cm, it’s not considered normal. You may need to see a laparoscopic surgeon in Thane to have the cysts removed. They may also run further tests, such as ultrasounds, MRIs, and biopsies, to ensure they aren’t cancerous.
Ovarian cysts might be asymptomatic in most cases and won’t harm you. However, if they co-exist with pelvic pain and bloating that doesn’t go away, consult a gynecologist for further evaluation.
