Ovarian cysts are common fluid-filled sacs that develop on an ovary. They often form during the menstrual cycle. Most ovarian cysts are harmless, do not cause symptoms, and often resolve on their own without medical intervention.
Understanding Ovarian Cyst Rupture
An ovarian cyst ruptures when the sac on the ovary bursts, releasing contents into the abdominal cavity. This can occur due to physical activity, sexual intercourse, or sometimes with no clear trigger. Rupture likelihood increases with cyst size.
When a cyst ruptures, the most common symptom is sudden, sharp pelvic pain, typically localized to one side of the lower abdomen. This pain can range from a dull ache to a severe, stabbing sensation. While many ruptured cysts are not serious, some can lead to complications like internal bleeding or infection, which can intensify the pain.
How Ruptured Cysts Can Affect Digestion
A ruptured ovarian cyst can affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms like diarrhea. This occurs because the fluid released from the burst cyst can irritate the peritoneum, a thin membrane lining the abdominal cavity. Ovaries are located near parts of the digestive tract, including the intestines.
This irritation can trigger a localized inflammatory response. This inflammation can disrupt the normal functioning of nearby digestive organs, leading to changes in bowel habits. Such irritation can manifest as gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, bloating, and diarrhea. Increased abdominal pressure or hormonal fluctuations can also contribute to these digestive disturbances.
Recognizing Other Symptoms and When to Seek Care
Beyond digestive issues, a ruptured ovarian cyst can present with other symptoms. These may include a feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvis, light spotting or vaginal bleeding that differs from a normal period, and pain during sexual intercourse. The pain might also worsen with movement or coughing.
In some instances, a ruptured ovarian cyst can lead to more severe symptoms requiring immediate medical attention. These include intense, sudden pelvic or abdominal pain, particularly if accompanied by fever, chills, or persistent nausea and vomiting. Signs of internal bleeding, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, fainting, rapid heart rate, or rapid breathing, also require prompt medical evaluation.
Diagnosis and Management
Diagnosing a ruptured ovarian cyst begins with a pelvic exam, where a healthcare provider may identify tenderness or a mass. Imaging tests confirm the cyst’s presence and nature. A pelvic ultrasound is a common tool using sound waves to image the ovaries and uterus, determining the cyst’s size, location, and type (fluid-filled or solid).
Blood tests may also check for internal bleeding, infection, or elevated markers. Management often involves pain relief with medications and careful observation to see if the cyst resolves on its own. If there is significant bleeding, signs of infection, or persistent severe symptoms, hospitalization may be necessary. Surgical intervention may be required to control bleeding or remove the cyst.