Functional ovarian cyst

Nature and Mechanism of Formation

A functional ovarian cyst is a temporary formation that appears following a late rupture of the follicle or a disorder of the regression of the corpus luteum. These cysts form when the egg does not exit the follicle during ovulation or when the corpus luteum does not dissolve and begins to accumulate fluid. Generally, these formations are small and resolve on their own within a few cycles. In most cases, they do not require special treatment, but in case of complications, medical assistance is necessary.

Causes

These formations are diagnosed in 30 to 50% of women of childbearing age. They can be caused by hormonal disorders, inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system, polycystic ovary syndrome, sexually transmitted infections, as well as the consequences of abortions and difficult pregnancies. Externally, a functional cyst appears as a bubble filled with fluid. It can be follicular, in the absence of ovulation, or luteal, when the corpus luteum fills with fluid and enlarges.

Symptoms and Possible Complications

Functional cysts measuring up to 3-4 cm generally do not cause pronounced symptoms. They may not bother the woman and may be discovered accidentally during a pelvic ultrasound. However, in some cases, the cysts are accompanied by menstrual cycle disturbances, bleeding outside of menstruation, pain during physical exertion or sexual intercourse. Particularly alarming symptoms include sharp abdominal pain accompanied by vomiting, nausea, urges to urinate and defecate, as well as loss of consciousness. These symptoms may indicate a rupture of the cyst and bleeding into the abdominal cavity. In such situations, emergency surgical intervention is necessary.

The torsion of the cyst's stalk is equally dangerous. It manifests as paroxysmal pain radiating to the lower back and legs, accompanied by nausea, pallor, and sweating. Without prompt intervention, tissue necrosis may occur. Additionally, large functional cysts are often detected in women undergoing examination for infertility, as these formations can prevent pregnancy.

Therapeutic Approaches

If the cyst is not painful and does not grow, a watchful waiting approach is most often adopted, followed by monitoring the condition using ultrasound. It is important to consult a gynecologist regularly. In case of complications such as rupture or torsion, surgical treatment is necessary. The therapeutic approach is always individualized and depends on the patient's age, general condition, and pregnancy plans.

Reproductive Health and Ways to Preserve It

Preserving fertility is one of the main objectives of modern gynecology. It is important for women with functional cysts to monitor not only the condition of their ovaries but also to take timely measures in case of a risk of reduced ovarian reserve. If conception does not occur naturally, assisted reproductive techniques may be used.

IVF (in vitro fertilization) is a common method that allows for the fertilization of an egg outside the woman's body. In the absence of mature eggs, one can resort to IVF with egg donation. In cases where an egg and sperm from a donor are needed, IVF with double donation is used. These methods offer a chance to have a child even when traditional approaches prove ineffective.

Modern medicine allows for the effective overcoming of many forms of infertility. Individual selection of treatment protocols, accurate diagnosis, and comprehensive support are the key principles of the work of successful clinics.

NatuVitro Support

The reproductive medicine clinic NatuVitro offers professional assistance to couples wishing to become parents. The clinic's doctors use the latest infertility treatment methods, including IVF, donation programs, and cryopreservation. Attention to every detail, a personalized approach, and high-quality standards make NatuVitro a reliable choice for future parents.

In most cases, a functional ovarian cyst is benign and temporary. But even in situations where conception difficulties arise, modern medical technologies and experienced specialists are ready to help and restore women's confidence in the future.