Hemorrhagic Ovarian Cyst: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Introduction

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled structure, or sac, that can form on one or both ovaries. A cyst can also form in areas surrounding the ovaries, such as the fallopian tubes.

What Is a Hemorrhagic Ovarian Cyst?

A hemorrhagic ovarian cyst is a type of functional ovarian cyst which forms when a small blood vessel within the cyst wall ruptures, allowing blood to enter the cyst. A hemorrhagic cyst essentially is the natural process of a functional ovarian cyst developing in the typical ovarian functions. The most common time for the occurrence and development of these cysts is prior to, during or just after ovulation with the corpus luteum.

Features of Hemorrhagic Ovarian Cysts

Key Features:

• Blood-filled : The cyst is blood-filled as compared to the more typical process of just fluid-filled cysts.
• Formed during menstrual cycles : Most cysts often appear during the follicular phase after ovulation, when the follicle is forming a corpus luteum.
• May vary in size : Some remain small without notice, while others can expand and become painful.
• Often resolve naturally : Many will go away on their own in a few weeks, with no treatment needed.
• Can cause complications : If they rupture or become large enough, they can lead to pain or internal bleeding.

Symptoms of Hemorrhagic Ovarian Cyst

Symptoms of hemorrhagic ovarian cysts can vary widely. Some people have no symptoms and find that they have this type of cyst when being evaluated for something else.

Others may have symptoms that include:

1. Sudden or Sharp Pelvic Pain

• Usually, only on one side and around the area of the affected ovary
• The pain may appear suddenly, especially if the cyst ruptures

2. Abdominal Bloating or Fullness

• Feeling like your lower abdomen is full or swollen
• May be confused with digestive issues

3. Irregular Menstrual Bleeding

• Light small amounts of clotted blood between periods
• Heavy or longer than usual bleeding period

4. Pain During Intercourse or Bowel Movements

• If the cyst presses on other surrounding tissues
• More discomfort when doing physical activities

5. Nausea or Dizziness (If Cyst Ruptures)

• When there is possible internal bleeding
• Should be considered a medical emergency

Causes of Hemorrhagic Ovarian Cyst

The causes of hemorrhagic ovarian cysts are typically related to the normal functioning of the body, though several factors may increase a woman's risk of developing one:

Hormonal changes during ovulation :

The continually changing hormone levels during the ovulation cycle may lead to some functional cysts. If they bleed internally, they become hemorrhagic cysts.

Rupture of blood vessels inside a cyst :

If a small blood vessel ruptures in an existing cyst, bleeding and bleeding into the cyst can occur, leading to pain and swelling.

More common in reproductive-aged women :

Women in their reproductive years are more likely to experience hemorrhagic ovarian cysts due to ongoing ovulation and active cycles.

Use of fertility drugs may increase the risk :

For women using medications that stimulate the ovaries, there may be an increased likelihood of cyst formation or bleeding, leading to hemorrhagic cysts.

Diagnosis of Hemorrhagic Ovarian Cyst

A timely and accurate diagnosis is essential to understand the size, location, and severity of the cyst. The following are the common diagnostic methods:

Pelvic ultrasound :

This is the primary tool used for diagnosing ovarian cyst symptoms, determining their size, location, and whether the cyst has internal bleeding.

Blood tests :

These ensure there is no infection, keep the hormone levels in check and evaluate if they have anaemia due to a bleeding ovarian cyst.

Physical examination :

The doctor will assess for tenderness and swelling in the abdomen or pelvis to rule in or out a hemorrhagic cyst.

Timely diagnosis is important to treat the hemorrhagic cyst as well as to avoid complications from internal bleeding.

Treatment Options for Hemorrhagic Ovarian Cyst

Hemorrhagic cyst treatment will depend on the size of the cyst, its signs and symptoms, and potential complications. Most cases are treated conservatively; however, others will require medications or surgical procedures.

1. Observation and Monitoring

• Usually, small cysts without severe symptoms are treated conservatively, and they resolve on their own.
• Usually, a follow-up ultrasound will be done in a couple of weeks, and that will determine if it has shrunk or disappeared.
• Pain management strategies may include over-the-counter pain relief medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, as well as advising on usage based on your pain.

2. Medications

• Hormonal birth control pills may also be considered in order to avoid further cysts from developing.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs are also appropriate options for managing pelvic pain and inflammation.

3. Surgical Intervention

• If the cyst is large, persistent, or causing severe pain, some physicians may recommend laparoscopically removing the cyst.
• Emergency laparoscopic surgery may be necessary if the cyst ruptures and causes internal bleeding or ovarian torsion.
• In rare cases of damage to tissue, removal of part of the ovary may be required.

Timely hemorrhagic cyst treatment helps avoid complications and ensures that your reproductive health is cared for.

When to Seek Medical Help?

It is essential to listen to your body and not overlook signs that may indicate a ruptured or problematic cyst

Seek immediate care if you experience:

• Sudden and severe pelvic or abdominal pain
• Fainting, dizziness, or weakness (may signal internal bleeding)
• Rapid heart rate or low blood pressure
• Pain with fever or vomiting
• Persistent irregular bleeding or pain across cycles

An acute and ruptured bleeding ovarian cyst is a medical emergency.

What Are the Prevention Tips for Hemorrhagic Ovarian Cysts?

It is difficult to prevent the rupture or bleeding of ovarian cysts, but there are steps you can take to lower your risk and detect them early:

• Regular check-ups with your gynaecologist and a pelvic ultrasound.
• Track your ovulation and cycle patterns.
• Discuss with your doctor about using hormonal birth control to help suppress ovulation.
• Avoid high-impact activity during ovulation if you are prone to cysts.
• Managing underlying conditions like PCOS or endometriosis.
• Maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle to support reproductive health.

Proactive care can help detect any issues early and lower the risk of complications.

Conclusion

A hemorrhagic ovarian cyst may sound unpleasant, but in most cases, they are harmless as long as you find out about them early on and get treatment. They eventually go away on their own, but sometimes will require management with medications. Occasionally, surgical removal may be suggested to help resolve such cysts. If you experience some of the known symptoms of ovarian cysts, like sharp pelvic pain or unusual bleeding, you should consult a doctor.