Ovarian Cyst Symptoms

Certain symptoms will help to diagnose an ovarian cyst, although if you experience these ovarian cyst symptoms it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have an ovarian cyst. A symptom experienced by itself is not cause for immediate alarm, but medical attention should be sought promptly when a combination of two or more are recognized.

Menstrual irregularities, such as painful periods and abnormal bleeding may be an indication of ovarian cysts, especially if there is no prior history of irregularities. This could also mean a longer or shorter than usual menstrual period, an absent menstruation, or an irregular menstruation. Spotting or light bleeding can occur when symptoms of ovarian symptoms manifest. Unexplained weight gain may be another symptom of ovarian cysts.

Pelvic pain, such as dull aching in the lower back and thighs are common ovarian cyst symptoms. This pain may begin shortly before or after a period. It may also occur during intercourse or strenuous exercise.  Pain and pressure both in the abdomen and in the pelvic area can be caused by the size, bleeding, bursting or twisting of a cyst. This can irritate the abdominal tissues and block the flow of blood to the cyst.

The symptoms of pregnancy are much the same as the symptoms of ovarian cysts. You must look for symptoms outside the common pregnancy symptoms to see the difference between the two. Infertility is one of the common symptoms present with ovarian cysts.

Pain, fullness, or pressure in the abdomen often accompanies ovarian cysts. This pain may start and stop suddenly, and may be severe and sharp. There may also be abdominal bloating or swelling. In addition, pain or pressure during bowel movements including problems passing urine as well as pressure on the rectum or bladder may be a sign of ovarian cysts developing.

Not all ovarian cysts point to a crisis, in fact, the majority of them eventually disappear on their own. However, when there are very strong ovarian cyst symptoms such as sudden/sharp abdominal pain, vomiting, or fainting then it is a serious situation which needs immediate medical intervention.

Ovarian cyst symptoms make it difficult for a general doctor to detect a cyst and they rarely make a diagnosis based on them. While locating a cyst based on symptoms is not impossible, the majority of ovarian cysts are found not because of ovarian cyst symptoms, but as a result of annual Pap smears.