Overview
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that grow in the ovary. They are usually benign and about one-third of the women who are menstruating may develop cysts at some point in their lives.
The cysts generally develop before menopause when the ovaries are active and there is a regular menstrual cycle.
After menopause, the ovaries stop releasing eggs but they may still develop cysts. These cysts can be dermoid cysts that develop from cells present during birth and cystadenomas that develop on the epithelium or the surface of the ovary.
Malignant or cancerous cysts though rare mostly occur in older women after menopause.
Can ovarian cysts be treated without surgery?
Many people dread the thought of having surgery. They first try to explore alternative treatments or holistic approaches to treat the ailment before going for surgery.
Nonsurgical treatments can be beneficial based on factors like:
- The type of ovarian cyst
- Symptoms
- Your age
- Size and appearance of the cyst
- Your overall health
Functional cysts are benign, harmless cysts that develop during ovulation or the release of eggs from the ovary. They are sometimes called “simple cysts” and generally do not cause any symptoms. They resolve within one to two menstrual cycles. In some cases, they may cause mild pain in the lower abdomen and bleeding before or after the ovulation period.
Nonfunctional ovarian cysts are not always associated with ovulation or menstrual cycle. Some cysts may grow and become larger and even twist or rupture. They can cause pelvic pain, abdominal swelling, pain during intercourse, menstrual cramps, and even infertility. A ruptured ovarian cyst or a cyst that causes torsion (twisting) needs immediate medical intervention and possibly surgery.
Some cysts have malignant tissues or are cancerous. Cysts can also get infected and cause complications and you may have to undergo surgery.
Very small cysts may not cause any concern, however, cysts that grow and surpass a certain size, need to be removed.
Non-surgical treatment for ovarian cysts includes:
Watchful waiting
The doctor may recommend the ‘watchful waiting’ approach to examine the ovarian cyst symptoms and their progress. It is generally done when there are no symptoms and the cysts are very small. Follow-up pelvic ultrasounds are performed at regular intervals to assess the change in the size or appearance of the cysts.
Medications
Medicines such as birth control pills or hormonal contraceptives stop ovulation and prevent the development of new cysts. They cannot however shrink existing cysts.
Home treatments
There is no scientific backing that proves that home treatments can shrink ovarian cysts. They can help manage pain, help with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) symptoms, and provide relaxation.
Home treatments for ovarian cysts
Natural remedies provide relief to ovarian cyst symptoms. Before you pursue home treatment, consult a specialist to confirm whether it is safe to pursue natural treatments. Some cysts may cause complications and surgery may be the only alternative for ovarian cyst treatment.
Heat therapy
Apply a heating pad on the lower abdomen to get relief from menstrual cramps. There are hot water rubber bottle bags as well as electric heating pads that are available at chemist shops or can be bought online.
Heat therapy relaxes the muscles, increases blood flow, and reduces inflammation.
Hot bath
A hot bath is ideal for providing relief to cyst pain and relaxing the muscles. Add a cup of Epsom salt to the bathtub and a few drops of essential oils lavender or jasmine. Stir the water with your hands and let the salts dissolve. Soak your lower body in the bathtub for 30 minutes. This can be done once a day for relief.
Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines
OTC pain medications can provide temporary relief to the pain. However, long-term use of pain medications is not recommended. If you are unable to manage pain or the pain is persistent, visit your doctor for further consultation.
Chamomile tea
The tea has anti-inflammatory properties and is an old remedy for reducing cramps. It also reduces anxiety and relaxes your body. It is easily available in grocery stores or online.
Boil some water and some tea in a kettle. Remove it from heat and let it cool for one minute. Add some chamomile flowers and mint leaves to the tea and let them infuse in the hot tea. After 4-5 minutes, strain the tea and enjoy it with some lemon juice and honey.
Ginger tea
Ginger is high in anticarcinogenic and antioxidant elements. Peel and add some ginger slices to a pot of water and let it boil for 7 to 10 minutes. Remove the pot from heat and cool it down for a few minutes. Add honey and lemon juice for flavour. You can also buy ginger tea bags available online or in grocery stores.
Exercise
Gentle stretching exercises and some yoga postures can help reduce cyst pain. Being overweight also increases the risk of developing the disease. Maintaining a healthy weight by simply walking or jogging can prevent the formation of ovarian cysts.
Dietary changes
PCOS is one of the contributing factors in developing ovarian cysts. PCOS can lead to insulin resistance which can cause diabetes and weight gain. Elevated insulin levels can cause multiple ovarian cyst formation.
Follow a diet that reduces the intake of sugar. Include fresh vegetables, fruits, omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, and ginger. They are natural sources of anti-inflammatory properties. Increase the intake of magnesium that can ease cyst pain.
Stop your suffering NOW
Don't just jump into a surgery because your doctor is advising you to go for it. Consult our doctors to know if you need a surgery at all. Rest assured, we WON'T recommend you surgery unless it's the last resort.
