Cysts on ovaries is an issue that an overwhelmingly large number of women face. While they can occur at any age, they become most prevalent between puberty and menopause. Usually they tend to be ultimately harmless, but still cause many inconveniences and a good deal of pain, similar to a boil on the skin. Yet ovarian cysts tend to be easily treatable, so there is no need to worry about your problems.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

There are two types of cysts found on the ovaries. The most common are what is termed "functional cysts". These take place during a woman's normal menstrual cycle and while painful are not cancerous nor disease related. They are simply caused by the ovary filling with fluid if an egg delays in its release. These cysts are completely treatable and will usually disappear on their own after a few months. The other kind is referred to as "non-functional". These are not necessarily caused by disease, but are not caused by typical menstruation, and do not necessarily go away without medical attention. An ultrasound or CT scan is used to diagnose the condition.

Signs and Symptoms

Typically the first symptom women will note is pain in the lower back, lower abdomen, or the pelvic region which spikes shortly before or after a menstrual cycle. The pain can be a dull and constant ache or short, intermittent stabbing sensations. Also common is painful or difficult urination and bowel movements. The entire body can be affected by cysts at times, and symptoms such as headache, tenderness of the breasts, or more facial hair have also been reported. Although less common, extremely large or frontal cysts can even be felt through the skin.

Options for Treatment

Ovarian cysts can be treated using many methods. At times it may even be preferable to simply monitor their growth and wait to see if they disappear on their own, especially if the woman is not showing any uncomfortable symptoms. If one does need treatment, it is often effective to use heat packs or anti inflammatory medication to control symptoms. If this fails a doctor will often prescribe a hormonal contraceptive, which serves to regulate menstruation. In rare cases, surgery may be performed to remove the cysts, but this is generally reserved for cases of suspected malignancy or abnormally large size.

Cysts on ovaries is a problem found in a great deal of women. But rest assured it usually is not a sign of any major problem and tends to be easy to correct.