Ovarian Cyst

An ovarian cyst is any collection of fluid, surrounded by a very thin wall, within an ovary. Any ovarian follicle that is larger than about two centimeters is termed an ovarian cyst. Such cysts range in size from as small as a pea to larger than an orange. Most ovarian cysts are functional in nature and harmless (benign). Ovarian cysts affect women of all ages. They occur most often, however, during a woman's childbearing years. Some ovarian cysts cause problems, such as bleeding and pain. Surgery may be required to remove cysts larger than 5 centimeters in diameter. See also : Ovarian Cancer

Symptoms

Most cysts don't cause any symptoms and go away on their own. A large ovarian cyst can cause abdominal discomfort. If a large cyst presses on your bladder, you may feel the need to urinate more frequently because bladder capacity is reduced.

The signs and symptoms of ovarian cysts, if present, may include:

• Pelvic pain — a dull ache that may radiate to your lower back and thighs
• Pelvic pain shortly before your period begins or just before it ends
• Pelvic pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Pain during bowel movements or pressure on your bowels
• Nausea, vomiting or breast tenderness like that experienced during pregnancy
• Fullness or heaviness in your abdomen
• Pressure on your bladder that causes you to urinate more frequently or have difficulty emptying your bladder completely

Home remedies

• Herbs for Ovarian Cysts Herbalists use a variety of herbs to treat ovarian cysts. Since the belief is that an underlying hormonal imbalance creates conditions that lead to ovarian cysts, herbalists use a variety of plants to restore balance and harmony. Recommended herbs also include those that restore overall vitality and cleanse the liver. Herbal treatments won't cure ovarian cysts overnight. You must take the herbs prescribed by an herbalist for at least three weeks and preferably six weeks or more. The following list is intended as a general overview only of herbs for ovarian cysts. Please consult a naturopath or qualified herbalist for the exact herbs to treat your condition, and do tell your physician about any herbs you're taking.The Herbal Encyclopedia online recommends some of the following herbs to treat ovarian cysts and other abnormal uterine growths:
  • Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-casta): Herbalists have used vitex for centuries to restore hormonal balance. It's common in remedies for cysts, menopause symptoms and other hormonal imbalances.
  • Red Clover: Red clover's estrogen-like effects make it a popular remedy for hormonal imbalances. The National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is currently studying the efficacy of red clover.
  • Black Cohosh: Powerful menstrual regulator and hormone balancing herb.
  • Dandelion: Liver cleanse.
  • Milk thistle: Cleansing.
  • Wild Yam: Hormonal balancing.
  • Bee Pollen: Overall support and strengths.
• Bach Flower Remedies : Several Bach Flower Remedies, used alone or in combination, can help with ovarian cysts. Robert McDowell, an Australian herbalist, recommends the following Bach Flower Remedies in addition to herbal medicine:
  • Walnut
  • Wild Oats
  • Impatiens
  • Red Chestnut
  • Honeysuckle
• Dietary Changes :
  • Some preliminary research from Italy suggests that women who eat more meat and cheese products develop more ovarian cysts than women who do not eat these products. It may be wise to alter your diet, include more fruits and vegetables, or follow a vegetarian diet until the ovarian cysts shrink or dissolve.
  • Other recommendations include diets rich in fruits, vegetables, garlic, legumes and whole grains. Eating less sugar and white flour also allows the body time to heal and rebalance itself.
  • A large percentage of modern foods purchased in supermarkets today include an array of synthetic and naturally-occurring estrogens, all of which interfere with proper ovary health. Soy, which is found in large amounts of food today, is one of the most common dietary sources of estrogens. Did you know that ovarian cysts are now seen in girls who haven’t even menstruated? This may be related to the common intake of soy.
  • Many common plastics contain xenoestrogens that can seep into food, so it is advisable for women (and even men) to avoid microwaving or storing food in plastic containers or plastic wrap. Better still, why not toss the microwave and store all food in glass. Also, avoid all products that contain aluminum, which is a xenoestrogen. The simplest way to figure out what’s OK and what isn’t is to use products that include only natural (preferably organic) ingredients.
• Homeopathy, a practice that calls upon various herbal tinctures and concoctions, is often used to support ovarian health. Common homeopathic preparations for ovarian cysts include Arsenicum Album, belladonna, and apis mellifica. Homeopathy is viewed as a complementary approach that is meant to work with the body’s natural biological mechanisms to support overall health, including the health of the ovaries.

Warnings

Seek immediate medical attention if you have:

• Sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain
• Pain accompanied by fever or vomiting

These signs and symptoms — or those of shock, such as cold, clammy skin; rapid breathing; and lightheadedness or weakness — indicate an emergency and mean that you need to see a doctor right away.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.