Ovarian Cysts
To stay healthy, every individual must stay focused on stress management and on maintaining
a positive attitude towards wellness. A strong rapport exists between health,
mind activity and the environment. Medical studies have verified the effects of a
positive state of mind in fighting heart diseases, cancer, hormonal disturbances etc.
Both, male and female hormones are useful tools in evaluating one’s menstrual, fertility,
menopausal, prostate, impotency problems and sexual dysfunctional problems.
What are ovarian cysts? To explain it simply and in laymen terms they are a collection of fluid within the normally solid ovary. There are many different types of ovarian cysts and they are an extremely common gynecological problem. Because of the fear of ovarian cancer, cysts are a cause of great concern among women. But the important thing to know is that the vast majority of ovarian cysts are not cancer. A cyst may cause discomfort or may be discovered at the time of a routine examination, when one is feeling absolutely fine. The good news is that almost all ovarian cysts will go away by themselves without treatment.
The ovaries are the female reproductive glands. They are a pair of almond shaped organs situated in the pelvic region on each side of the uterus. The ovaries are responsible for the production of the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone and the ova or eggs. Several problems like cysts and tumors are seen to develop in the ovary, which, most often may be benign or non cancerous and produce no symptoms. Most benign cysts disappear after the menstrual cycle, but, sometimes, they grow and cause great discomfort, irregular or heavy bleeding and frequent urination. A condition called polycystic ovary syndrome is very common and is due the formation of multiple small cysts on the ovaries.
Cause of Ovarian Cysts
The most common types of ovarian cysts are called functional cysts which results from a collection of fluid forming around a developing egg. These cysts are usually no larger than a small marble and more than often go away by themselves. A number of other types of ovarian cysts can form as a result of the abnormal growth of the other cells contained in an ovary. These cysts are less common.
Although most cysts cause no symptoms at all, pressure or pain in the pelvic area is a common problem that may cause women with an ovarian cyst to see a doctor. As fluid collects in a cyst and makes the ovary expand, the covering of the ovary is stretched this stretching causes discomfort and pain. Also, the fluid within the cyst can weigh the ovary down, causing a pulling sensation when a woman moves. In some rare cases, the covering of the ovary tears open releasing the cyst fluid into the abdominal cavity causing pain. The ovaries produce the female hormones estrogen and progesterone the hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle, therefore when an ovarian cyst disrupts the ovary, it may not produce the hormone normally and the result can be abnormal periods. The bleeding may be heavy or light, long or short, or irregular. In turn abnormal amounts of hormone can cause water retention, breast swelling or tenderness, and even PMS- type symptoms. Once the cysts resolves, your period and body should return to normal within a cycle or two. Therefore, if you have abnormal bleeding your should contact your gynecologist immediately. Symptoms like severe abdominal pain, irregular bleeding, irregular menstrual cycle need to be checked by a doctor as early as possible.
Treatment for Ovarian cysts
Most often cysts are detected at the time of a pelvic examination. The ovaries are normally no larger than a small walnut. But if a cyst forms the ovary can swell to a few inches or more. The doctor is often able to feel a cyst as a soft, movable lump. Regardless of the type of the cyst most feel the same. If you’re about to menopause in most cases cysts are not bothered about. Doctors ask for repeated examination every two or three weeks to make sure the cyst is dissolving. If the cyst is gone by that time then no further treatment is needed. In case it persists then a pelvic sonogram has to be done to determine the type of cyst and the future line of treatment. Surgery may be considered necessary if a cyst appears suspicious for cancer on the sonogram, if it causes severe pain or if it continues to grow and does not go away in eight weeks without decreasing in size then they might be abnormal. Laparoscopic surgery is the best and most used way of removing ovarian cysts that persist. This surgery enables the gynecologist to remove a cyst, while preserving the normal and healthy ovary.
Alternative choices for ovary problems
Acupuncture is beneficial for revitalizing energy to the reproductive organs, stimulating the organs and reducing any pain and inflammation experienced.
Herbal Therapies
Herbs that promote hormonal balance, steady blood sugar levels, and immune system strengthening are generally recommended. Herbs used to treat cysts include burdock, mullein, yarrow, dandelion, black , ginger, dong quai, cinnamon although the specific formula that is given is tailored to the symptoms of the specific patient.
Compresses
Compresses can be used to stimulate circulation and healing in the ovaries. A hot water bottle covered with a towel soaked in castor and essential oils can be applied to the lower abdomen near the ovaries. Lavender, rosemary, and chamomile are recommended essential oils. A hot compress can also be made by heating in a warm oven a cloth soaked in castor and essential oils, which is then applied to the lower abdomen. Bags of ice covered with towels can be used alternately as cold treatments to increase local circulation.
Exercise and yoga
Daily exercise for twenty minutes or more is recommended. Exercising outdoors in plenty of sunlight may help regulate hormones. Yoga includes exercises specifically designed to increase circulation and healing in the lower abdomen, and is an excellent stress-reduction technique as well. A regular exercise routine addresses health goals like increased lean muscle mass, building bone density and better cardio-vascular strength. Exercises will not only keep you trim, toned and energetic but will also reduce chances of obesity, diabetes, heart diseases etc.
Dietary guidelines
- Include 4-5 helpings of fruits and vegetables daily especially deep colored ones like tomato, carrot, greens, mango etc which are high in antioxidants.
- Do moderate workouts regularly. Include yoga, pranayams and meditation. Exercise boosts blood circulation, helps build strong bones, improves cardio-vascular fitness and helps to manage your weight which is one of an important factor in prevention of all ovarian problems.
- Avoid fried food and sugary foods.
- Eat high fiber foods like whole grains, pulses, fruits and nuts.
- Include 8 to 10 glasses of water daily
- Reduce consumption of foods like saturated fats, sugars and starches. Avoid or eat less of butter, cream, full fat milk, cheeses and fatty meats. Use extra virgin olive oil or other vegetable oils.
- Reduce use of canned and processed foods and meats. It is better to use more beans, tofu, soya and other vegetable proteins.
- 1.Adequate rest and sleep are very important for sound health of mind and body.
Mind/Body Therapies
Mind/body therapies seek to heal the emotional and psychological components that may be contributing to cyst formation. Stress reduction can be achieved through yoga, meditation, tai chi, breathing techniques, progressive relaxation, and others. Visualization techniques and yoga may help stimulate healing in the internal organs. Some practitioners have theorized that problems in the ovaries may be linked to certain emotional states. For instance, the ovaries are the organs that create life, and blocked creativity in women may contribute to their dysfunction. Furthermore, the ovaries are the specific female organs, and some studies have suggested that women who suffer abuse, low self-esteem, guilt and anger may be susceptible to ovarian problems. Psychotherapy, support groups, and other mind/body therapies seek to help women uncover and confront emotional issues.
It is necessary for both women and men to understand and utilize preventive strategies to minimize the onset of such common diseases or disorders.
