Reproductive health directly impacts fertility. Nearly 10% of women have ovarian cysts that develop in the ovaries. Ovarian cysts are usually normal and dissipate on their own as part of the menstrual cycle. However, they may lead to fertility issues in women. You may be worried when you are diagnosed with ovarian cysts, as they might affect your fertility and reduce the chances of conception. Ovarian cysts and fertility are closely associated, so check out the symptoms, causes, risks, diagnosis and treatment for them.
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that are formed in the ovaries. It develops at any age but is most common in the reproductive years. They are malignant tumours that are usually harmless. Ovarian cysts are a normal part of the menstrual cycle. They are small, do not pose any threat, and disintegrate independently without complications. At times, ovarian cysts can affect the fertility of women. The type of ovarian cyst decides its impact on fertility. Ovarian cysts are broadly classified into two types.
● Follicular Cyst: This type of cyst grows from a follicle when it does not release any egg.
● Corpus luteum cyst: This type of cyst develops when the sac around the egg does not disintegrate after the release of an egg.
● Dermoid Cyst: This is developed from the reproductive cells containing hair, tissues, teeth or skin.
● Cystadenoma: It is a cyst containing water or mucus that develops on the surface of the ovary.
● Endometrioma: This type of cyst develops when the endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus. This gets attached to the ovary. These types of cysts are also known as chocolate cysts.
Not all types of cysts affect fertility. Some dissolve on their own, and some may grow in size, interfering with fertility.
You may experience the following symptoms of ovarian cysts:
● Cramping
● Abdomen pain
● Irregular periods
● Heavy periods
● Constipation
● Pain during pee
● Spotting
● Bloating
● Hormonal Issues: “Polycystic ovaries” is a type of ovarian cyst caused by hormonal issues.
● Pregnancy: During early pregnancy, ovarian cysts may develop to support your pregnancy.
● Intake of Fertility Drugs: The intake of certain fertility drugs can result in ovarian cysts. These drugs can cause flare-ups in gonadotrophins, causing ovarian cysts. High doses of ovarian stimulation drugs can develop ovarian cysts.
● Deficiency: Zinc deficiency can develop ovarian endometrial cysts.
● Infections: Reproductive tract infections and pelvic infections can affect ovaries and fallopian tubes, resulting in cysts.
It is not that ovarian cysts cause fertility issues for everyone, but some types can affect women. Endometriomas and polycystic ovaries are the most popular types of ovarian cysts that affect your reproductive health. Here are the types of ovarian cysts affecting fertility in women:
● Endometriomas: This type of ovarian cyst may damage the ovaries, affecting their function.
● Polycystic ovaries: It is a type of ovarian cyst causing PCOS that affects ovulation, resulting in fertility issues.
● Dermoid Cyst: This type of ovarian cyst is present from birth and grows over time. Dermoid cyst ovary may grow larger, demanding surgery to remove a part of the ovary. This may reduce the fertility.
Ovarian cysts are usually harmless, but there are chances for severe complications. The following are the risks of ovarian cysts:
● Ovarian Torsion: A large ovarian cyst may twist the ovary, leading to a blocked blood supply to the ovary. You may need emergency surgery for this condition.
● Cyst Rupture: An ovarian cyst may break or rupture, causing severe pain and bleeding. As the cyst grows, there is a higher chance of the cyst breaking. Surgery may be needed in case of cyst rupture.
There are effective ovarian cyst treatments available. Your doctor may suggest a treatment plan based on the size and type of the cyst.
Regular Check-ups: Ovarian cysts, like functional ovarian cysts, do not go away on their own, so it is recommended that regular medical checkups be conducted to monitor them.
Hormonal Medications: Hormonal medicines like birth control pills, ovulation-stimulating medicines and tablets for PCOS can help treat ovarian cysts.
Pain Medications: In case of pain, you may take over-the-counter pain medications.
Surgery: Surgery is the best option for large and complex cysts. Laparoscopy surgery is usually recommended to remove the ovarian cysts with a small incision in the abdomen.
With recent advancements in the medical industry, it is possible to get pregnant despite ovarian cysts:
● IVF: IVF is an effective fertility treatment when you suffer from reduced ovarian function due to an ovarian cyst, such as an endometriotic cyst. In this treatment, donor egg may be used for fertilization.
● IUI: Intrauterine insemination is a popular ART treatment that helps women with ovarian cysts to conceive.
Things You Can Do to Conceive with Ovarian Cysts
Simple things can help women conceive despite the presence of the ovarian cyst, like:
● Eat a balanced diet: Include food rich in vitamins and minerals to avoid deficiency
● Regular workout: You must stay active and maintain a healthy weight with regular exercise.
● Cut-off Caffeine intake: Reduce caffeine intake to improve your reproductive health.
● Reduce Stress: Managing stress can help increase the chance of conception. Engage in stress-relieving activities to reduce stress.
● Track your ovulation: Knowing the most fertile days can help you plan for the baby at the right time.
● Regular Medical Check-ups: Schedule regular doctor visits to assess your reproductive health.
Ovarian cysts indeed impact the fertility of women, but not all cysts are harmful and lead to infertility. Endometriosis and PCOS are the type of cysts affecting fertility. Consult your healthcare provider, who can provide you with the right advice. Your doctor recommends a treatment plan based on the type and size of the ovarian cyst. With proper fertility treatment, you can still conceive despite the presence of ovarian cysts.
Ovarian cysts can lead to hormonal imbalance, hindering the release of eggs from the ovary. This affects ovulation and egg quality.
Yes, ovarian cysts can be treated to improve fertility. Hormone medications, surgery and fertility treatment can improve fertility and help you conceive.
The following are the types of ovarian cysts that can affect fertility.
● Endometriomas
● Polycystic ovaries
● Cystadenomas
