What Is Complex Ovarian Cyst and How Is It Treated?

While some cysts are benign and may cause no symptoms or side effects, complex Ovarian cysts are a different story. Complex ovarian cysts are characterized by a number of characteristics, including significant size, solid components, or signs of twisting or torsion. These cysts often require medical attention and treatment as they can grow rapidly and cause pain and other symptoms.

In this article, we’ll discuss what a complex ovarian cyst is, what causes them, the common symptoms associated with them, treatment options available to those who have been diagnosed with a complex ovarian cyst, and the potential long-term implications of the diagnosis. We hope that by the end you have a clear understanding of this condition and its treatments so that you can better protect your health in the future.

Overview of Complex Ovarian Cysts

Complex ovarian cysts are growths on your ovaries that can cause pain and changes in your menstrual cycle. They’re also known as large follicular cysts and are typically filled with a thick, sticky fluid.

These cysts are larger than the average size of a normal ovarian follicle. They can range in size anywhere from two to six centimeters in diameter, although sizes larger than seven centimeters are rare. Complex cysts can contain both solid and fluid-filled areas and may even have septae (thin walls) separating them into smaller compartments.

Unlike simple ovarian cysts, which typically go away on their own within a few months, complex ovarian cysts may require medical intervention because of their size or if they cause health problems such as pain or infertility. Treatment options for complex ovarian cysts include medications to shrink the cyst, laparoscopic surgery to remove it, or watching it with periodic ultrasounds to see if it goes away on its own.

Symptoms of Complex Ovarian Cysts

If you have a complex ovarian cyst, there are certain signs and symptoms to be aware of. It’s important to note that symptoms may not be present in all cases, but when they do occur they can include:

• Abdominal pain or bloating

• Heavy menstrual bleeding

• Frequent urination

• Infertility

• Pelvic pain during menstruation or sex

• Discomfort in the lower back and thighs

• Urge to urinate immediately after finishing urination

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it's important to contact your doctor as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor will likely order imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to determine if you have a complex ovarian cyst and the size of the cyst.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Complex Ovarian Cysts

Complex ovarian cysts are not always easy to diagnose as they have similar symptoms as other types of cysts. In order to properly diagnose a complex ovarian cyst, your doctor will likely use imaging tests like an ultrasound or CT scan. You might also undergo blood tests to measure hormone levels and rule out other conditions, such as endometriosis.

Once the cyst is diagnosed, the treatment options vary based on the type and size of the cyst. Generally speaking, there are two main approaches:

Surgery

If the complex ovarian cyst is large or has a low risk of cancer, your doctor may recommend surgical removal. This typically involves traditional open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, or a laparotomy where a larger incision is made in the abdomen. Surgery offers an effective way to remove the entire cyst and treat any underlying issues that may be causing it.

Medication

If the cyst is small and does not appear to be growing quickly, your doctor may suggest taking birth control pills or other medications containing hormones to reduce its size and shrink it completely over time. Hormone therapy can also help reduce any pain or discomfort caused by the cyst and prevent new ones from forming in the future.

Tests for a Complex Ovarian Cyst

If a simple ovarian cyst is suspected, you may be asked to have an ultrasound. This non-invasive procedure uses sound waves to create a picture of your ovaries, which the doctor will use to measure the size of the cyst and assess any other worrisome features. If it is still unclear if the cyst is complex or not, your doctor may order a CA-125 blood test. This test looks for proteins in your blood that can indicate an ovarian cyst, and is also used for monitoring recurrence in women with ovarian cancer.

Lastly, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) can also be requested to further investigate your cyst. MRI uses radio frequency and magnetism to create detailed images of organs and other structures within your body - such as those found in the female reproductive system - and can help show the composition of the ovarian cyst further.

Possible Compliations From a Complex Ovarian Cyst

Large complex ovarian cysts can have serious complications. If the cyst ruptures, it can cause severe pain and lead to internal bleeding. There is also a risk of developing a blood clot, leading to further medical complications such as pulmonary embolism or stroke.

Depending on the size, shape and location of the cyst, other possible medical consequences include:

• Blocked Fallopian Tubes: This occurs when a large ovarian cyst presses against and blocks the fallopian tubes, which results in infertility.

• Infection: An infected ovarian cyst can cause pelvic pain and fever. Left untreated, a perforated ovarian cyst can cause an abscess (a pocket of pus) in the pelvic area.

• Torsion: A large ovarian cyst can sometimes cause the ovary to twist on itself or twist around its own blood supply, resulting in ovarian torsion. Symptoms of torsion include sudden and severe abdominal pain or pelvic pressure that worsens with movement or activity.

It is important for anyone experiencing symptoms of an ovarian cyst to seek medical attention in order to identify any potential underlying issues and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Prevention of Complex Ovarian Cysts

In order to prevent complex ovarian cysts from forming, it is important to remain aware of the risk factors associated with them. Regular visits to a gynecologist can help detect any possible changes or irregularities that may indicate the presence of a complex ovarian cyst. Additionally, there are some lifestyle choices that can reduce the likelihood of developing a cyst.

Diet

Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber and low in saturated fat can help reduce the risk of developing ovarian cysts. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may also help regulate hormones and reduce inflammation. Additionally, limiting caffeine intake has been linked to decreasing the risk of developing ovarian cysts.

Weight

Maintaining an optimal body weight is essential for proper reproductive system health. Being overweight or obese increases abdominal pressure, which can disrupt hormone levels and increase the likelihood of developing an ovarian cyst or other condition. Exercising regularly and following a healthy diet are key components for maintaining an optimal body weight.

Stress Reduction

Stress has been linked to increased hormone imbalances that can contribute to ovarian cyst formation. There are many ways to reduce stress such as doing yoga, meditation, or engaging in relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises. Additionally, getting plenty of sleep and exercising regularly can help keep stress levels under control.

Conclusion

Complex ovarian cysts can present a difficult diagnosis, but proper treatment is typically available and effective. Usually, a combination of observation and medication can produce successful results, though more severe cases may require surgery.

In any case, it’s important to discuss treatment options with a qualified medical professional and undergo tests for diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment of complex ovarian cysts is essential to protect fertility, reduce pain and other associated symptoms, and avoid further complications.