Treatment of follicular ovarian cyst (including without surgery, as well as using folk remedies)

A follicular ovarian cyst is called functional, probably because it occurs as a result of hormonal imbalances and is associated with the work of the endocrine system, which controls the reproductive sphere, where the ovary occupies an important position.

The follicular cyst has several names, it is also called functional or retention, but the essence of it always remains the same - a smooth, thin-walled, connective tissue cavity in the ovarian tissue, having a diameter of 1 to 4 cm on average, sometimes reaching 7 or more cm with long-term existence , and depending on the menstrual cycle.

Taking into account the mechanism of cyst formation, it can be explained why reproductive age is most susceptible to such a pathology, although there are also exceptions to this rule. In world medical practice, cases of intrauterine cyst formation have been described, which is associated with the anatomical structure, which provides for the presence in the ovary of a follicle that can be stimulated by maternal estrogens in a female fetus.

What is a follicular cyst?

The formation appears at the moment when follicular atresia occurs. When ovulation begins, the follicle stops developing and the egg does not leave it. After some time, the reverse process starts, and the follicle returns to its original dimensions. As a result, ovulation is disrupted and a tumor appears. The formation has a tendency to resolve if it is small in size.

The formation appears at the moment when follicular atresia occurs.

A follicular cyst on the left ovary appears infrequently. This is due to slow blood circulation in this part of the organ. The left side of the ovary is supplied with blood flow by the renal artery. Thanks to this, Graafian bubbles rarely appear in this area, which reduces the risk of formation.

Follicular cysts appear more often on the right ovary. This is due to the difference in blood circulation in different areas of this organ. The right one has a direct connection with the aorta, which ensures good blood circulation in this side. This leads to frequent maturation of the follicles, from which a compaction subsequently forms.

Follicular type cysts also differ in size from different sides. On the left, the lump is small in size, in contrast to the right-sided tumor. Moreover, both formations have the same development processes.

Forms of the disease

Depending on the characteristics of the course, follicular ovarian cysts are divided as follows:

retention, which are characterized by independent resolution;
persistent, in which there are no signs of regression for several months;
recurrent, that is, formed repeatedly.

In addition, follicular ovarian cysts can be congenital or acquired.

According to the presence of complications - uncomplicated and complicated.

Types of follicular formations

There are two types of education:

Single chamber. This is a cyst cavity of round sizes with thin walls. This type of tumor is diagnosed in most cases.
Two-chamber. These are two tumors that began to exist separately, but over time merged into one. The two-chambered variety is rare. Typically, this compaction forms during infertility therapy with drugs that promote the synthesis of female hormones. This leads to stimulation of ovulation and the formation of follicles. In this case, the tumor is accompanied by an inflammatory process of the genital organs.

Complications

If the tumor does not disappear within 3 menstrual cycles, the following complications are possible:

complete or partial torsion of its legs and subsequent tissue necrosis;
rupture of the capsule, which can cause peritonitis;
rupture of the ovary itself, as a result of which the woman may die.

Cyst rupture
Therefore, despite the relative harmlessness of a follicular cyst, it must be monitored and promptly treated.

Reasons for the formation of neoplasms

The seal is formed as a result of a decrease or increase in hormonal activity. Disruption of hormone production occurs in the following cases:

Taking oral contraceptives without consulting a specialist may have an effect.

pathology of the genital organs, which is caused by inflammation or infections;
puberty;
during menopause;
taking medications based on hormones;
taking oral contraceptives without consulting a specialist;
unstable emotional background;
period after abortion;
problems with the activity of the endocrine system;
ovarian dysfunction;
sexually transmitted diseases;
diseases of the pelvic organs, which increase blood flow to the ovaries.

Treatment methods

Since a follicular type cyst can resolve on its own, the doctor may choose observational tactics for a period of no more than 3 months. At this time, a woman should carefully monitor her feelings and, in case of minor health problems, immediately consult a doctor. In addition, you should regularly undergo ultrasound and monitor the growth of the tumor. Before treating it, you must undergo a thorough examination.

Medication

Most often, follicular cysts are treated without surgery. Basically, for the treatment of the right or left ovary, medications are prescribed in the form of tablets. To quickly cure an illness, the doctor prescribes several medications in combination, which in combination give a positive result.

For functional cysts, hormonal agents are recommended, which are divided into several groups: gestagens (Duphaston, Progestogel, etc.), oral contraceptives (Yarina, Diane 35, Rigevidon, etc.) and antiandrogens (Dienogest, Spironolactone, etc.). With their help, the hormonal levels in the female body are balanced. However, it is strictly forbidden to take them on your own, only as prescribed by a specialist.

Duphaston is an effective drug for the treatment of follicular cysts

Treatment with Duphaston is very often prescribed.

Expert opinion

Gynecologist-obstetrician

30 years of experience

For inflammation, enzymes are prescribed to prevent purulent formations. If the cyst is very painful, it is recommended to take painkillers such as Ibuklin, Pentalgin. Nosh-pa and Duspatalin are effective for relieving spasms. For cysts caused by stress and strain, sedatives are additionally prescribed. In addition to tablets, your doctor may prescribe injections, ointments, suppositories and vitamins as auxiliary therapy.

Symptoms

Characteristic features of large seals:

Problems with bowel movements, bloating, frequent urination.

heavy menstruation;
prolonged periods;
cycle increase;
delayed onset of menstruation;
pain in the groin area, which radiates to the legs and lower back;
frequent urination;
bloating;
problems with stool;
bloody discharge between periods;
pain in the groin area after sexual intercourse, lifting weights and during sudden movements.

If cyst symptoms occur, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist.

Signs of torsion

If the tumor changes shape from round to oblong and a stalk appears, while the formation turns in the opposite direction, torsion is diagnosed. This leads to a lack of adequate nutrition of the soft tissues of the cyst, which causes necrosis.

If the tumor changes shape from round to oblong and a stalk appears, torsion is diagnosed.

Cyst torsion is a complication of follicular pathology. It occurs due to heavy lifting, increased activity and after sexual intercourse. The main sign of complications is severe cutting pain in the lower abdomen. The following symptoms are also characteristic of torsion:

pallor of the facial epidermis;
perspiration that appears on the forehead for no apparent reason;
drop in blood pressure.

Gap

In this case, the following symptoms appear:

Along with the rupture of the cyst, the ovary itself can be injured.

acute pain syndrome in the groin area from the formation of a compaction;
loss of consciousness;
significant increase in body temperature;
nausea accompanied by the urge to vomit;
decrease in blood pressure in the vessels;
problems with stool;
cardiopalmus.

Along with the rupture of the follicular cyst, the ovary itself can be injured. In this case, internal hemorrhage occurs. This causes bleeding from the uterus. This condition threatens the woman’s life and therefore requires urgent treatment.

Watchful waiting tactics for functional ovarian formations

Observation of ovarian cysts is carried out for 3 months. During this period it is recommended:

Avoid sports that involve jumping, sharp turns, intense movements, or stress on the abdominal and pelvic muscles;
Do not lift heavy objects (more than 3 kg);
Avoid thermal procedures. Do not visit the sauna, bathhouse, solarium, sunbathe on the beach, or take a hot bath or shower;
Limit the influence of stressful situations.

While monitoring the dynamics of the follicular cyst, it is necessary to avoid intense physical activity and stressful situations; thermal procedures are not recommended.

These recommendations will reduce the risk of complications and help avoid surgery.

Particular attention in non-drug therapy for ovarian cysts is paid to proper nutrition. The diet involves avoiding foods that could potentially increase the concentration of estrogen in the blood. Products rich in trans fats, methylxanthines, and preservatives are prohibited. It is recommended to avoid sweet pastries, fatty and fried foods, and alcohol. It is allowed to eat fresh vegetables and fruits rich in fiber and vitamins. You can eat lean meat and fish. Fermented milk products will be beneficial.

On a note
It is not known for certain whether diet affects the growth of ovarian cysts, but the expected benefits make it possible to use this technique in terms of non-drug treatment of pathology. Even if education does not go away, proper nutrition will help boost immunity and improve a woman’s health.

The lesion in the ovary may resolve after the next menstruation, but more often this happens within 1-2 months. After 3 months, a control ultrasound examination is prescribed. If the cyst persists or continues to grow, it is removed.

3 months after the discovery of a follicular cyst, the woman must undergo a control ultrasound examination.

It is also useful to read: The use of suppositories in the treatment of ovarian cysts

Diagnostics

A gynecologist diagnoses the pathology. The cyst cannot be detected upon examination. If the tumor is large, it can be palpated. To make an accurate diagnosis, the patient is prescribed an ultrasound. Such a study detects formation and helps determine the dimensions.

Ultrasound detects follicular formation and helps determine dimensions.

If an ultrasound detects a follicular tumor, the doctor prescribes an additional test - Doppler ultrasound. This procedure helps to track the slow blood flow and gives a more complete picture of the nature of the formation. Analysis for tumor markers in this case is not prescribed.

Prevention of follicular cysts

To prevent this disease from reappearing, you must try to lead a lifestyle in which your hormonal levels remain normal. You need to spend more time in the fresh air, try to avoid nervous shocks, stress, and take vitamin complexes.

Contraceptive methods should be discussed with your doctor.

An ovarian cyst is an unpleasant disease, but amenable to modern treatment. If a doctor makes such a diagnosis, then there is no need to panic right away. It is better to take proper treatment and continue enjoying life.

How to treat follicular ovarian cyst?

Pathology therapy is not always carried out. If the formation does not bother the patient and is small in size, treatment is not prescribed. If the diameter of the tumor exceeds 6 cm and the cyst is accompanied by characteristic symptoms, the doctor selects an acceptable therapeutic line.

Large lesions may resolve on their own.

Before starting treatment, the gynecologist adheres to a wait-and-see approach. A large cyst can resolve on its own within 3 menstrual cycles. For this reason, the doctor postpones treatment for 3-4 months.

If after some time the gynecologist does not detect a trend towards improvement, the specialist chooses a method of treatment, depending on the nature of the follicular formation and the subjective characteristics of the patient.

If a follicular cyst is discovered during pregnancy, the formation is not touched until 17-18 weeks. After this, laparoscopy is prescribed. If the manipulation is performed at an earlier stage, this can provoke fetal loss. The exception is torsion. In this case, laparoscopy is performed at any stage, regardless of the threat of pregnancy, since a pedunculated cyst can be fatal to the woman.

Use of medications

Drug therapy is based on taking hormonal drugs. The patient is prescribed oral contraceptives. At the same time, experts also advise taking vitamins, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory drugs. The course of treatment is six months. After stopping these medications in the first 2-4 months, you can become pregnant. In addition, during this period, the risk of relapse of the pathology is reduced to zero, since the hormonal balance is normalized.

If hormonal imbalance is associated with excessive production of female hormones, then drug therapy is limited.

If hormonal imbalance is associated with excessive production of female hormones, then the follicular ovarian cyst is treated with duphaston. This is a synthetic analogue of progesterone. This drug reduces the production of estrogen, but does not completely suppress it, so the woman does not acquire masculine features in appearance and gets rid of the tumor.

Laparoscopy

If hormonal therapy does not give the desired result, the doctor may prescribe laparoscopy. The essence of the procedure is the introduction of small manipulators through three punctures in the abdominal cavity.

If hormonal therapy does not give the desired result, the doctor may prescribe laparoscopy.

After this, do one of the following:

cyst amputation;
excision of the follicle and amputation of injured tissue;
amputation of the gland - this manipulation is performed when the ovary ruptures.

Surgical intervention

Surgery is prescribed for complications of a follicular cyst. If torsion or rupture occurs, abdominal surgery is performed. The essence of the procedure is an incision in the abdominal cavity to amputate the tumor. The operation can cause serious complications and even death of the patient. Manipulation is performed if laparoscopy is not feasible. One of the contraindications for puncture of the abdominal cavity is excess body weight.

Psychological factor

To get rid of a disease, sometimes a simple conversation with a psychologist or switching your thoughts in another direction is enough.

To get rid of a disease, sometimes a simple conversation with a psychologist or switching your thoughts in another direction is enough. The main thing is not to think about the cyst. The fact is that the pituitary gland and hypothalamus - parts of the brain - are responsible for the activity of the ovaries, so often women themselves provoke the appearance of a cyst, when the appearance of a tumor becomes almost a phobia. If you don’t think about the tumor, you can avoid its appearance and even get rid of an existing tumor.

Causal factors

It is definitely not so easy to talk about the etiology of the described disease. There can be many reasons for the appearance of a follicular ovarian cyst. The most proven role is considered to be the role of disturbances in hormonal homeostasis in the development of cystic transformation. This can be any endocrinopathy (pathology of the endocrine glands), from diabetes to thyroid disease.

In addition to direct changes in the synthesis of hormonal substances, the following factors play an important role:

emotional overload;
stressful effects;
physical fatigue;
overheating or hypothermia, both general and local, in the pelvic area.

In modern conditions, almost all women are influenced by these factors. However, not everyone develops ovarian follicular cysts. Not only the immediate causes of cysts are identified. Gynecologists distinguish another group of possible triggering factors that, together with the above elements, may contribute to the appearance of functional ovarian tumors.

Inflammation of the uterine appendage. This is especially true for frequent recurrent adnexitis.
Infectious diseases transmitted primarily through sexual contact.
Other infections of the genital tract that spread upward into the pelvic cavity.
Uterine fibroids.
Other neoplasms of the female reproductive system.

All of the above conditions ultimately lead to hormonal imbalances, which underlie menstrual irregularities and the formation of cysts in the ovary.

Diagnostic search: how not to miss a dangerous pathology

The following methods are used to diagnose a ruptured ovarian cyst:

Gynecological examination

During a bimanual examination, the doctor pays attention to the condition of the uterus and appendages. The pathology is accompanied by severe pain, so the patient often does not allow the doctor to examine herself. If the doctor nevertheless manages to palpate the appendages, he notices their slight increase. It is important to remember that vaginal examination itself can cause rupture of the cyst capsule and lead to worsening of the condition.

Ultrasonography

Ultrasound is the most informative method for the primary diagnosis of pathology. The echographic picture is assessed taking into account the day of the menstrual cycle. Diagnosis is carried out in comparison with an intact ovary. An ultrasound can detect a cyst and know that it has burst by the presence of free fluid in the pelvis.

Ultrasound examination is one of the most informative methods for diagnosing a burst ovarian cyst.

Culdocentesis

Abdominal puncture through the posterior vaginal fornix helps confirm the diagnosis. The presence of light fluid or hemorrhagic contents (blood) speaks in favor of ovarian apoplexy and indirectly indicates rupture of the cyst. The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia. The manipulation is painful, but informative. Detection of free fluid in the abdominal cavity is a reason for emergency surgery.

Laboratory research

In the diagnosis of a ruptured cyst and its complications, the following tests are important:

General blood analysis. Bleeding is supported by a decrease in the level of hemoglobin and red blood cells - laboratory signs of anemia. During the inflammatory process in the abdominal cavity, an increase in the number of leukocytes and an acceleration of ESR are observed in the blood;
Indicators of the blood coagulation system in the initial stages of the disease remain within normal limits. Hemostasis monitoring helps monitor the development of complications against the background of progressive bleeding.

It is also useful to read: Important aspects of treating corpus luteum cysts

Laparoscopy

Endoscopic examination of the pelvic cavity is highly accurate and in 98% of cases allows you to determine the rupture of an ovarian cyst.

Surgical picture:

Normal size of the uterus;
Accumulation of blood in the pelvis (including with clots);
Increase in size of the ovary due to a cyst;
Cyst with signs of capsule rupture. The content of education is beyond its boundaries.

Identifying these signs makes it possible to make an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment.

Differential diagnosis of ovarian cyst rupture is carried out with the following diseases:

Ectopic pregnancy is a condition in which the embryo is located outside the uterus;

Symptoms of a ruptured ovarian cyst are similar to those of an ectopic pregnancy.

Pyosalpinx is a purulent inflammatory disease of the appendages;
Torsion of the pedicle of an ovarian cyst;
Renal colic;
Acute appendicitis;
Intestinal obstruction as a result of the formation of adhesions, tumors, helminthiasis;
Perforated gastric ulcer.

All women admitted to the surgical department must be examined by a gynecologist. It can be quite difficult to distinguish an attack of appendicitis from a ruptured ovarian cyst. The final diagnosis is often made only after laparoscopy.

Case from practice
Patient M, 27 years old, was admitted to the emergency room of the surgical department with complaints of sharp pain in the right iliac region, nausea, vomiting, and urinary retention. Laparoscopy revealed signs of subacute appendicitis. The inflamed appendix was removed, but a follow-up examination of the pelvic cavity was not performed. After the operation, the woman’s condition did not improve, and the pain increased. A joint examination by a surgeon and a gynecologist and a repeat laparoscopy revealed a ruptured ovarian cyst and accumulation of blood in the abdominal cavity. An adnexectomy, revision of the surgical wound was performed, and drainage was installed. After removing the affected ovary along with the cyst, the woman began to recover. Thus, in this situation, doctors had to deal with two dangerous conditions at once - appendicitis and rupture of an ovarian cyst, and without treatment, each of the diseases could lead to peritonitis.

Features of right-sided and left-sided ovarian cysts

Basically, a cyst of the left ovary appears in women of reproductive age during hormonal fluctuations: endocrine disorders, in menopause that occurs too early (before 45 years), as well as in girls with early puberty.

Although the reasons for the appearance of the tumor have not yet been fully studied, scientists believe that the cyst of the right ovary is formed due to the fact that this gland is connected to the main aorta by its artery, and therefore dominant follicles are more often formed on the right. Inflammatory processes of the uterine appendages can also be the cause.

Good evening. I have been involved in sports all my life, I can no longer live without it. Yesterday I was diagnosed with a follicular cyst of the right ovary, 40 mm. I have a race planned in a couple of days. The cyst did not appear yesterday, I played sports quite actively, and nothing happened. I will take the medications prescribed by the doctor. Can I continue my studies? (Olga, 34 years old)

Good evening, Olga. The fact that nothing happened during your active activities while having a cyst only speaks of your luck. With this size, the risk of rupture or torsion of the formation is not as great as with sizes of 8-10 cm, but it is still there, and quite significant given your lifestyle. Think about what is more important to you – sports or your health? Moreover, you will have to give up your favorite activity for a very short time. Take care of yourself, postpone active sports for a couple of months.

Surgical intervention

If the formation has reached a large size and complications arise, surgical treatment methods are used.

According to the technique used, surgical intervention is of two types:

Laparoscopy. Minimally invasive surgery is carried out using a special device - a laparoscope. To carry out the operation, small punctures are made through which a manipulator and a video camera are inserted. It is used in case of large cysts or inflammation.
Laparotomy. Abdominal surgery. Used in case of complications such as rupture or torsion.

Types by degree of impact:

Cystectomy. This is a method of enucleating a cyst. Usually only part of the ovary is removed. The remaining portion remains functional.
Ovariectomy. Removal of the entire ovary. The operation is performed if it has been severely damaged as a result of complications. Since the ovaries are a paired organ, reproductive function is preserved thanks to the remaining one.

The choice of surgical intervention method is influenced by the severity and degree of development of the disease. In any case, doctors try to preserve reproductive function in a patient of reproductive age.

Recovery after surgery

After surgery, the patient is prescribed antibiotics,

anti-inflammatory, painkillers, immunomodulators and vitamin complexes. It is necessary to follow a diet - take only liquid soups and cereals, jelly, fruit drinks, steamed fruits and vegetables. In the future, these restrictions are gradually lifted.

To speed up the healing of sutures, it is recommended to wear a special postoperative bandage.

Full recovery of the body occurs 3-4 weeks after the intervention. During this period, any physical activity, sexual intercourse, or heavy lifting should be avoided. In the first week, it is recommended to remain in bed.

Contraindications for surgery

In some situations, treatment can be much more complex than just medication or surgery. Thus, hormonal drugs cannot be prescribed for the treatment of a disease if there is a suspicion that the neoplasm may be malignant. In this case, it is necessary to first determine the nature of the cyst, and then decide on the method of treatment. Resection is contraindicated during pregnancy as it increases the likelihood of miscarriage.

Laparoscopy or laparotomy cannot be performed if the patient has vascular and heart diseases or chronic kidney problems. In such a situation, the operation may jeopardize the life and future health of the patient in the future, which means it is not worth the risk (except in cases where the situation is hopeless). Also, laparoscopy or laparotomy should not be performed if the patient is experiencing the acute stage of any infectious disease, since the operation, firstly, reduces immunity, and, secondly, during the operation the infection can affect any internal organ.

The presence of anemia is an obstacle to the operation. After all, a low number of red blood cells indicates a weakness of the body, so if you have such a disease, difficulties may arise during the rehabilitation period.

Preventive measures

In order to avoid pathology, you should regularly visit a gynecologist. This will prevent the development of many sexual diseases.

Other rules of prevention:

carrying out a full examination when planning pregnancy, and, if necessary, treatment of detected diseases;
timely treatment of any inflammatory processes of the genitourinary system;
taking precautions when detecting an ovarian cyst;
immediate removal of the formation as prescribed by a doctor.

When treating formations on the ovaries, it is necessary to strictly follow all the recommendations of the gynecologist - this will speed up the healing process and prevent the occurrence of complications.

Ovarian cyst apoplexy is a pathology, the consequences of which are minimized with timely medical intervention. To prevent its occurrence, physical activity and other factors that contribute to rupture of the formation should be avoided. Properly selected treatment can preserve a woman’s reproductive function.

Rupture of an ovarian cyst is a serious condition requiring immediate hospitalization. An ovarian cyst is a benign formation of the abdominal cavity and in most cases does not pose a threat to the patient’s health. The appearance of the tumor depends on the phase of the menstrual cycle (ovulation period in particular). There are several types of cystic formations: