Ovarian cyst  are fluid filled sacs or pockets within or on the surface of the ovaries. They are common in women with  regular periods. As a matter of fact, most women make at least one corpus lute cyst every month. You may not even notice it until there is a problem that causes the cyst to grow or if multiple cysts form. They are less common after menopause. Post menopausal women with ovarian cyst are at higher risk of ovarian cancer.

What are the causes of ovarian cyst ?

Some of the common causes of ovarian cysts include the following :

• hormonal problems – This can cause functional cyst which may go  away on their own
• endometriosis – It produces a type of ovarian cyst known as endometrioma. This cyst can make sex and menstruation painful
• severe pelvic infection : Infection can spread to the fallopian tubes and ovaries and cause a cyst.

What are the signs of ovarian cyst ?

Most ovarian cysts are small and do not cause symptoms. However if  symptoms are present , they include the bloating, pressure , pain, swelling in the lower abdomen on the side of the  cyst. The pain may be sharp and dull and may come and go.

A raptured cyst can cause sudden, severe pain. This can cause  serious consequences when treated early.

You may also experience pain along with nausea and vomiting when a cyst causes twisting in the ovaries.

Other less common symptoms you may experience include :

• painful sex
• pelvic pain
• unexplained weight loss
• dull ache in the lower thigh and back
• painful periods
• breast tenderness
• usually vaginal bleeding
• frequent urination

Does ovarian cyst make it harder to get pregnant ?

Most ovarian cyst do not  affect your chances of getting pregnant . However the diseases that causes the  cyst can make it difficult to get pregnant. These  diseases include endometriosis and polycystic ovarian  syndrome PCOS.

What is the effect of ovarian cyst on pregnancy ?

Ovarian cysts are common during pregnancy. They  are non cancerous and harmless. Cysts that continue to grow during pregnancy can rapture or twists  or cause problems during delivery. Your health care professional will monitor you if a cyst is found during pregnancy.

Can ovarian cysts be prevented ?

You cannot prevent functional ovarian cyst if you’re ovulating. If you get these cysts often, your doctor may prescribe  hormonal birth control to stop your form ovulating . This is will reduce your risk of new cyst forming.