Ovarian cysts are common among women of reproductive age. These fluid-filled sacs can develop in the ovaries and cause various symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, irregular periods, and difficulty getting pregnant. But can you feel an ovarian cyst by touch?
What Is an Ovarian Cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside the ovary. Most cysts are harmless and go away on their own without treatment. However, some cysts can grow large, rupture, or cause complications such as torsion (twisting) of the ovary. The majority of ovarian cysts are functional cysts, which means they develop as a normal part of the ovulation process.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Most ovarian cysts do not cause any symptoms and are discovered incidentally during routine pelvic exams or imaging tests. However, some cysts can cause the following symptoms:
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Bloating or swelling
- Irregular periods
- Pain during sex
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Back pain
Diagnosing Ovarian Cysts
If you experience any symptoms of ovarian cysts, your healthcare provider may recommend the following diagnostic tests:
- Pelvic exam: Your healthcare provider will feel your pelvic area for any abnormalities such as cysts or tumors.
- Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to create images of your ovaries and detect any cysts.
- MRI: This imaging test uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of your ovaries and surrounding structures.
- Blood tests: Your healthcare provider may order blood tests to measure your hormone levels and rule out other conditions such as ovarian cancer.
Can You Feel an Ovarian Cyst by Touch?
While it is possible to feel a large ovarian cyst by touch, most cysts are too small to be detected during a pelvic exam. In addition, ovarian cysts do not have a specific texture or feel, so it can be difficult to distinguish them from other structures in the pelvis such as the uterus or bladder.
If you suspect you have an ovarian cyst, it is important to see your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Do not attempt to diagnose or treat yourself based on self-examination or online resources.
Treatment Options for Ovarian Cysts
The treatment for ovarian cysts depends on various factors such as the size, symptoms, and type of cyst. Your healthcare provider may recommend the following treatment options:
- Watchful waiting: If the cyst is small and does not cause any symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring it with periodic ultrasounds to see if it goes away on its own.
- Birth control pills: Hormonal birth control pills can help regulate your menstrual cycle and prevent new cysts from forming.
- Surgery: If the cyst is large, causes pain, or is suspected to be cancerous, your healthcare provider may recommend surgery to remove the cyst or the entire ovary.
Preventing Ovarian Cysts
There is no sure way to prevent ovarian cysts, but you can reduce your risk by doing the following:
- Take hormonal birth control pills: These pills can prevent ovulation and decrease your risk of developing new cysts.
- Manage your weight: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing ovarian cysts.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can disrupt your hormonal balance and increase your risk of ovarian cysts.
- Get regular pelvic exams: Pelvic exams can detect any abnormalities in your ovaries and help diagnose any cysts early.
Conclusion
Ovarian cysts are a common condition among women, but most cysts are harmless and go away on their own without treatment. While it is possible to feel a large ovarian cyst by touch, most cysts are too small to be detected during a pelvic exam. If you experience any symptoms of ovarian cysts, see your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Take steps to reduce your risk of developing ovarian cysts by taking hormonal birth control pills, managing your weight, quitting smoking, and getting regular pelvic exams.