Have you ever felt a sudden sharp pain in your lower abdomen and wondered what could be causing it? For many women, this can be the unexpected result of a ruptured ovarian cyst. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop inside or on the outer surface of an ovary. These cysts are very common in women of reproductive age and are mostly benign and often resolve on their own without intervention. However, complications arise when a cyst ruptures and its contents are released into the pelvic cavity.
We spoke to Dr. Gandhali Deorukhkar, Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Wockhardt Hospital, Central Mumbai , who explained its symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of a ruptured ovarian cyst
The experience of a ruptured ovarian cyst varies greatly depending on factors such as size, contents, and whether it causes bleeding. Below are common symptoms mentioned by Dr. Deorukhkar:
- Sudden, severe pain: The most obvious symptom is severe, sharp pain that is localized to one side of the lower abdomen, corresponding to the affected ovary. This pain can occur suddenly and can vary in severity.
- Pelvic discomfort: Some people report a vague, persistent pain or pressure in the pelvic area. This discomfort may persist for several hours or days after the rupture.
- Bleeding: A ruptured cyst can cause vaginal spotting or even significant bleeding if it involves large blood vessels. Heavy bleeding may require immediate medical attention.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: Fluid or blood released into the pelvic cavity can irritate surrounding tissues and lead to nausea, vomiting, or bloating.
- Other symptoms: In severe cases, internal bleeding from a ruptured cyst can lead to dizziness, fainting, rapid heartbeat, or even shock. These symptoms indicate a medical emergency that requires immediate care.
Causes and risk factors
Ovarian cyst rupture can occur for a variety of reasons, often influenced by physical and hormonal factors. Dr. Deorukhkar listed some common causes and risk factors as follows:
- Physical activity or trauma: Intense physical activity, heavy lifting, or abdominal injury can sometimes lead to a cyst rupture.
- Hormonal fluctuations: Cysts that form during ovulation, known as functional cysts, are especially prone to rupture due to hormonal changes.
- Cyst size: Larger cysts are more prone to rupture than smaller cysts.
- Underlying medical conditions: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis can increase the risk of developing ovarian cysts, some of which can rupture.
Diagnosis and when to seek help
According to the Office on Women’s Health (OASH), most ovarian cysts develop naturally as part of the menstrual cycle and are usually benign and harmless. However, in rare cases, ovarian cysts can be cancerous.
Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment of a ruptured ovarian cyst. If you experience sudden or severe pelvic pain, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Doctors may use a combination of diagnostic tools, including:
- Ultrasound imaging: To view cysts and detect fluid in the pelvic cavity.
- Blood test: To check for anemia or infection.
- Physical examination: To assess tenderness or other abnormalities in the pelvic area.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, some ruptured ovarian cysts can cause serious bleeding and require immediate medical attention. In severe cases, significant blood loss can reduce blood flow to organs and, in rare cases, can be life-threatening. Most ovarian cysts do not rupture. However, rupture is more likely to occur during strenuous physical activity or sexual intercourse. If you have a condition that makes you prone to bleeding, surgery may be necessary to rupture the cyst.
Treatment options
Treatment for a ruptured ovarian cyst depends on the severity of symptoms and complications:
- Mild cases: Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen may be enough to manage mild symptoms.
- Severe cases: If the rupture leads to internal bleeding, infection, or unbearable pain, hospitalization may be necessary. Treatment may include intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, or surgical procedures such as laparoscopy to control bleeding and remove the cyst.
- Preventive measures: For people who are prone to recurring cysts, hormonal contraception may be recommended to regulate ovulation and reduce the likelihood of cyst formation.
[ Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a professional and is for informational purposes only. Therefore, we recommend that you consult your specialist regarding any health issues to avoid complications. ]
