From painful cramps to fluctuating hormones, women’s bodies undergo significant changes each month. Ovarian cysts may form in response to the menstrual cycle, often going unnoticed.
These cysts, or growths, develop on or inside the ovaries – and while most kinds are harmless, some may cause complications down the road. Here’s what you need to know:
What are Ovarian Cysts?
An ovarian cyst is a small, fluid-filled sac that develops inside the ovary or on its surface. Ovarian cysts are quite common, often occurring without a single symptom and resolving on their own within a few months.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Many ovarian cysts go undetected until they are large enough to cause symptoms, like these:
- Pelvic pain
- Dull ache or sharp pain in your back or in the area below the belly button
- Feeling of fullness in your lower belly
- Bloating
- Pain during sex
- Painful or irregular periods
- Difficulties passing stool
- Increased frequency of urination
Will an ovarian cyst cause back pain?
Yes, in some cases a cyst may cause back pain – often a dull aching sensation or sharp pain.
How can you tell if an ovarian cyst has burst?
A ruptured cyst may go undetected just like an intact one, but most women experience a sudden, sharp pain in their lower belly or back when a cyst bursts. This may be followed by vaginal spotting, bloating, and continued discomfort.
We recommend seeking immediate medical attention if any of the following symptoms accompany abdominal pain:
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Faintness or dizziness
- Signs of shock (cold and clammy skin, rapid breathing, etc.)
Can Ovarian Cysts Be Cancerous?
Some patients wrongly assume that any growth is cancerous, fearing the worst before knowing the facts. But when it comes to ovarian cysts, it’s important to remember that simple ovarian cysts are typically benign, or not cancerous.
A more serious situation is at hand if the cyst has nodules or septations (tiny membranes dividing the interior of the mass). This may indicate that something more harmful is developing. A full-body MRI scan is then performed to determine if an ovarian cyst is cancerous.
A complete MRI scan uses magnets to take highly detailed photos of the body’s internal structures, including any abnormalities. By taking an MRI of ovarian cysts, your physician will get a closer look at the mass’s tissue in order to determine if it possesses certain characteristics found in ovarian cancer cells.
Seek Answers About Your Health with a Whole Body MRI Scan Today
At MRI Wellness, we believe that early detection points to a better future. By spotting the early signs of ovarian cancer, cysts, or any of the other 500 health conditions we screen for, our MRI scans allow you to take control of your health.
As the leading center for South Carolina full body MRI screening, our clinic prioritizes comfort and convenience. Our friendly, experienced staff is here to help, so schedule your full-body MRI scan today!
