Most women who have ovarian cysts have no symptoms at all. In fact, the condition is not usually discovered unless the woman is having a routine pelvic exam. Still some women will experience a ruptured ovarian cyst at some point. It's important to know that symptoms of a ruptured ovarian cyst can be similar to other severe abdominal conditions, such as appendicitis. So if you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to go to the emergency room right away.
- Sudden and severe abdominal or pelvic pain, particularly if it's located on one side.
- Pain that's accompanied by fever or vomiting.
- Cold, clammy skin.
- Lightheadedness or weakness.
- Rapid breathing.
Fortunately, most ovarian cysts will never get to this point. In fact, you may not even know you have a cyst until your doctor tells you. However, there are a few symptoms that you should be aware of, although many of these symptoms mimic other stomach problems. If you have one or more of these symptoms, you may want to schedule a doctor's appointment.
- Changes in menstrual cycle.
- Constant pelvic pain that shoots out to your lower back and upper legs.
- Pain in your pelvis right before your period begins or shortly after it ends.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Pain during a bowel movement.
- Symptoms similar to the first trimester of pregnancy – nausea, breast soreness, or vomiting.
- Feeling of fullness or heaviness in your stomach.
- Pressure on your bladder.
If you find you do have a cyst, your doctor will most likely prescribe birth control pills or take a wait and see approach. Avoid the birth control pills if at all possible, as many women have found their cysts to worsen while taking them. A better approach is to treat the cyst naturally through balancing your hormone levels.