Women’s health issues are often misunderstood, especially those related to their reproductive health. Today, we will tackle myths about Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), and Ovarian Cysts by delving into facts, like how not every cyst in the ovary is because of PCOS (did you know that?). Trust us, what you are going to read may surprise you, and many other females who were under the impression that ovary cysts and polycystic ovarian syndrome are the same.
Let us look at what PCOS and ovarian cysts are, how to treat these medical conditions, medicines available, and more.
Does PCOS Result in Ovary Cysts?
Yes and no. Let’s start decoding the name – polycystic ovary syndrome to understand the answer to the question. Polycystic means multiple follicles (fluid-filled sacs), which are small and exist in the ovary. Now, these are not cysts per se but follicles. Since the follicles may not release eggs as they do not reach maturity because of hormonal imbalance, they look like cysts.
However, they are not the larger cysts, which occur because of serious medical conditions. Thus, it is clear why follicles in PCOS are not technically cysts in the ovary. The size and type of the cyst will determine the treatment. The larger ones may need additional medical assistance, and sometimes an invasive treatment.
Remember that the focus is usually on managing the PCOS symptoms such as acne, irregular menstruation, infertility, and excess hair growth, rather than eliminating the cysts. Sometimes, the cysts go away with time and do not require any treatment. However, if there are symptoms like pain, hirsutism, etc. medical attention is necessary.
What is the Treatment for PCOS Cysts?
Can you believe that polycystic ovarian syndrome and birth control share a close relationship? It is because the latter, the hormonal contraceptive pills, are the most common treatment to regulate periods and prevent new cyst formation. Also, hormonal imbalances may not happen from ovarian cysts. Yet, certain cysts may occur from PCOS, leading to changes in the hormones.
The increased androgen (male hormone) levels are the culprit. The resulting cysts are thus, not a cause, but PCOS symptoms. Cysts may rupture because of their huge size, and these may not occur because of polycystic ovarian syndrome, but other factors. These may bring hormonal changes and affect menstruation.
You should know that ‘PCOS cysts’, which are generally follicles, do not entirely go away. However, they can cause fewer issues and shrink with treatment. Oral birth control may regulate glucose in the blood and manage the problem. However, the follicles may still exist.
Can Medicines Eradicate the Ovarian Cysts?
Now you know that PCOS and birth control go hand in hand as a medical condition and its treatment. However, oral contraceptives or any other medicines cannot dissolve the cysts present in ovaries. Yet, birth control medicines can correct the ovulation process and manage hormones, essential for reproductive health. Many times, hormonal treatments are prescribed to balance the progesterone and estrogen levels.
This can stop the formation of newer cysts and shrink the existing ones. However, if there are problematic and larger ovary cysts, surgery could be mandatory. It all boils down to what causes cysts in a woman’s ovaries, especially young ones. The major risk factor is puberty-related hormonal disbalance or fluctuation.
Though the cause of polycystic ovarian syndrome and birth control treatment are not difficult to understand, many think the pills can get rid of ovarian cysts caused by endometriosis. This is a myth, as hormonal treatment for endometriosis is different from that for PCOS.
What Are Functional Cysts in Periods?
During the menstrual cycle, functional cysts form in the ovaries. They are sometimes immature follicles and fluid sacs are ready to be expelled through bleeding. These go away by themselves and share no relation with polycystic ovary syndrome and other serious ovarian cysts. However, they are harmless and a part of the normal ovulation cycle. PCOS follicles or cysts are linked to hormonal imbalance, which causes an issue with the release of mature eggs from ovaries. Thus, more undeveloped follicles accumulate in the ovaries.
Final Thoughts
Hormonal disorders often lead to polycystic ovarian syndrome but they may not always cause ovarian cysts. Similarly, PCOS and cysts in ovaries may not be the same, and develop because of other health disorders. There is a false belief that PCOS leads to ovarian cysts, and vice-versa. However, both can result in problems with ovulation, which your healthcare provider can manage with birth control pills and other treatment methods.
It can shrink or reduce follicles but not ovary cysts.So, PCOS and birth control are related to reproductive health. However, ovarian cysts share a bigger picture, requiring a deeper diagnosis to understand and treat. Understanding the key differences between traditional ovarian cysts and PCOS-related follicles is a starting point in the discussion. You must work with your physician for an appropriate resolution for ovarian issues.