Ovarian Cysts & Pelvic Mass

What is it:

An ovarian cysts is a fluid filled sac that forms on or inside one or both of your ovaries. Ovarian cysts can occur more frequently due to endometriosis or fibroids. Ovarian cysts can be found on an ultrasound ordered by a physician. Ovarian cyst treatment is depended on the size and appearance of the cysts, what symptoms are being experienced and whether or not the individual is menopausal or not.

Symptoms:

In most cases, ovarian cysts usually disappear in a few months but can cause complications if they don't. In other cases, it can cause menstrual irregularities, pain during intercourse, or irregular bowel movements in individuals. Other broader symptoms can include:

• Pelvis pain ranging from a dull, heavy sensation to a sudden, severe and sharp pain, to the point of nausea or vomiting

• Pain during sex

• Difficulty emptying your bowels

• A frequent need to urinate

• Heavy, irregular or lighter periods than normal

• Bloating and a swollen stomach

• Feeling very full after only eating a little

• Difficulty getting pregnant (although fertility is usually unaffected by ovarian cysts)

Who can get it:

It is common, especially in pregnant individuals or those who haven’t gone through menopause yet.

What is it:

Pelvic masses are any benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) growths or enlargements that originate in the pelvic area, predominantly in the cervix, ovaries, uterus or surrounding areas in the lower abdomen. Pelvic masses are described as simple or complex on CT scans and ultrasounds depending on how they look.

Symptoms:

The pelvic mass size and location can affect whether someone will experience symptoms or not. Some possible symptoms include:

• Pain/ pressure

• Fullness/ bloating

• Urinary or bowel changes

• Decrease in appetite or feeling full quickly

• Menstrual cycle abnormalities

If the mass is large enough, the person may see or feel a bulge in the lower abdomen.

Who can get it:

Some pelvic masses don't have an identifiable cause, although age appears to play a role in their development. Women of reproductive age - primarily postmenopausal women, women ages 40-50, or women in their very late 30s are likely to be affected.