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Hemorrhagic cyst is a complication that can arise when a cyst in the ovary ruptures a small vessel and bleeds into it. The ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled pouch that can appear in the ovary of some women, which is benign, and common in women between the ages of 15 and 35, and can be of various types, such as the follicular cyst, corpus luteum or endometrioma , for example. Learn about the types of ovarian cysts and the symptoms they cause.
The hemorrhagic cyst does not usually alter fertility, but it can make pregnancy difficult if it is a type of cyst that produces hormones that alter ovulation, as in the case of the polycystic ovary, for example. It usually appears and disappears naturally throughout menstrual cycles, and generally does not require treatment, except in the most severe cases, where surgery may be necessary.
Main signs and symptoms
Symptoms of hemorrhagic cyst in the ovary can be:
- Pain in the left or right side of the belly, depending on the affected ovary;
- Strong cramps;
- Pain during intimate contact;
- Delayed menstruation;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Thinning without apparent cause;
- Signs of anemia such as weakness, pallor, tiredness or dizziness;
- Breast tenderness.
These symptoms arise when the cyst becomes very large, due to the accumulation of blood inside, causing pressure on the walls of the ovary, and are more evident during menstruation. Some types of cyst can produce hormones, such as progesterone, and in these cases, in addition to the symptoms, it may be more difficult to get pregnant.
In addition, when a hemorrhagic cyst ruptures, there may be a burning sensation or severe pain in the belly, in which case an urgent consultation with a gynecologist is recommended.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The presence of hemorrhagic cyst is diagnosed with transvaginal or pelvic ultrasound exams, which show its location, presence of bleeding and size, which, although rare, can reach up to 50 cm in diameter.
The doctor may also order blood tests to identify whether there is any hormone being produced and order semi-annual or annual ultrasounds to monitor the cyst size.
How the treatment is done
Generally, the treatment of hemorrhagic cyst consists of the use of analgesics, such as dipyrone, under medical guidance, as the cysts tend to disappear naturally after 2 or 3 menstrual cycles.
To help relieve pain and inflammation, hot water bags, heating pads and ice can be applied to the pelvic area to stimulate blood circulation. Oral contraceptives can also be indicated by the doctor, as they can decrease the production of hormones that stimulate the growth of the cyst.
Laparoscopic surgery may be necessary in cases where the cyst is larger than 5 cm, there is very severe abdominal pain, if the cyst has malignant characteristics or if other complications arise, such as rupture or twisting of the ovary.
Possible complications
When not properly treated, the hemorrhagic cyst can cause some complications, especially rupture or twisting of the ovary. Both situations cause very severe pain in the abdominal region and represent a gynecological emergency, and should be treated with surgery as soon as possible.
Can hemorrhagic cyst turn into cancer?
The hemorrhagic cyst is usually benign, however, there are cases of ovarian cancer that can manifest as cysts. Thus, the ovarian cysts that are most at risk of cancer are those that have the characteristics:
- Presence of blood cancer markers, such as CA-125;
- Cyst with solid components inside;
- Cyst larger than 5 cm;
- Presence of several cysts together;
- Leaking liquid out of the cyst;
- Presence of irregular edges and septa.
The treatment of ovarian cancer consists of removing the compromised ovary, through surgery performed by the gynecologist or general surgeon. See more about how to know if it is ovarian cancer and treatment.