Ovarian Cyst And Pregnancy : A Functional Relationship

By Amanda Clark

Did you that it is common for an ovarian cyst and pregnancy to coexist? Cysts, although technically abnormal, are relatively normal during pregnancy. An ovarian cyst is a closed sac that develops in the ovary. These sacs can be filled with fluid, blood or tissue. During pregnancy, they are normally filled with fluid.

Ovarian cysts are classified into different types. For childbearing women, most cysts are what's called functional. A functional cyst is the result of the natural functions of the ovary. Women who use birth control disrupt the natural function and do not have as many cysts. There are two types of functional ovarian cysts.

A luteum cyst occurs when the corpus luteum does not dissolve correctly. The corpus luteum makes progesterone and prepares the body for pregnancy. It naturally occurs during pregnancy and can be from 2cm to 6 cm. The corpus luteum is released after the egg and remains throughout early pregnancy. If it develops into a cyst, symptoms typically go away by the second trimester.

The follicular cyst is another type of functional cyst that can occur during pregnancy. This type of cyst occurs when the follicle holding the egg does not dissolve. The follicle then grows into a cyst. During pregnancy, a follicular cyst happens when a second egg is released but not fertilized. Similar to a luteum cyst, symptoms should disappear in a few months.

Although normal, functional cysts can cause pain. Larger cysts are at risk for rupture or twisting. A ruptured cyst can be painful and the pain can last for several hours.

If a functional cyst attaches to the body and becomes twisted that is also painful. The twisting can reduce blood supply and cause nausea.

Ovarian cysts and pregnancy are related because they are a function of the childbearing woman. Most ovarian cyst are harmless and go away naturally. If they do become a serious concern, a doctor can diagnose and remove them. - 30428

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