Ovarian Cysts & Cancer
The ovaries are two almond-sized organs. One is found on each side of the uterus. Growths called cysts or tumors can form in, on, or near the ovaries.
Cysts are sacs filled with fluid or semisolid matter. Ovarian cysts are common in women before menopause. These cysts rarely develop into cancer.
Tumors are solid masses. Most often, tumors in the ovary are benign. Malignant tumors are ovarian cancer. This type of cancer occurs most often after menopause, with half of all cases found in women ages 63 and older. It can occur at other ages, too.
Signs & Symptoms
Ovarian Cysts
When symptoms occur, they include:
- A feeling of fullness or swelling of the abdomen.
- Unexplained weight gain.
- A dull, constant ache on either or both sides of the pelvis.
- Pain during sex.
- Delayed, irregular or painful periods.
- Problems emptying the bladder or bowel completely.
- A cyst that bleeds, breaks or twists can cause sharp, severe abdominal pain, fever and vomiting.
Ovarian Cancer
In many cases, the cancer has spread by the time it is found. When symptoms appear, they are vague problems and are often ignored. These symptoms, even in early-stage ovarian cancer, last almost daily for more than a few weeks:
- Bloating.
- Pain in the abdomen or pelvis.
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly.
- Urgent need to pass urine or passing urine often.
Other symptoms can include:
- Back pain, pain with intercourse.
- Constipation, indigestion.
- Fatigue.
- Menstrual irregularities.
Causes
Ovarian Cysts
- Some cysts are due to normal changes in the ovaries.
- Some cysts result from cell growth. Most of these are benign, but need medical treatment. Examples are:
- Dermoid cysts. These are growths filled with many types of tissue. Examples are fatty material, hair, teeth, bits of bone, and cartilage.
- Polycystic ovaries. These are caused by a buildup of multiple small cysts from hormone problems. Irregular periods, body hair growth, and infertility can result.
{Note: Taking hormones does not cause ovarian cysts.}