Ovarian cysts are common, fluid-filled sacs that develop on or within an ovary. While many cysts are small and cause no symptoms, a growing cyst can physically impact nearby organs. Ovarian cysts can cause bladder pain, and this discomfort often stems from the cyst’s size and location within the pelvic cavity. Understanding this physical connection and recognizing related symptoms is important for determining when to seek medical evaluation.
How Ovarian Cysts Cause Bladder Pain
The bladder and the ovaries are closely positioned within the confined space of the female pelvis. The bladder sits toward the front, while the ovaries are located on either side of the uterus, just behind and slightly above the bladder. This anatomical closeness means that any growth on the ovary can directly interfere with bladder function.
When an ovarian cyst grows significantly, it expands and presses against the bladder wall. This external physical pressure mimics the sensation of a full bladder, even when it contains little urine. This mechanical compression leads to common urinary symptoms such as increased frequency, urgency, or the feeling that the bladder cannot be fully emptied.
This pressure-induced discomfort can often be mistaken for a urinary tract infection (UTI) because the symptoms are similar. Unlike a UTI, however, the symptoms caused by a cyst are not due to bacteria or inflammation. The size of the cyst is the primary factor; a cyst larger than five centimeters is more likely to create sufficient pressure to cause these urinary changes.
Other Symptoms Associated with Ovarian Cysts
When bladder discomfort is caused by an ovarian cyst, it is frequently accompanied by other symptoms related to the mass in the pelvis. A constant or intermittent pressure is often felt in the lower abdomen or pelvis, usually on the side where the cyst is located. This sensation can feel like heaviness or fullness.
Many individuals also experience persistent bloating or a noticeable swelling of the abdomen. The cyst’s mass can press on other nearby structures, leading to pain that radiates to the lower back or down the thigh.
Painful intercourse, known as dyspareunia, is a common symptom, particularly when the cyst is compressed during deep penetration. Hormonal changes associated with some cysts can also lead to irregular or unusually heavy menstrual periods, or pain during menstruation that is more intense than usual.
When Bladder Pain Requires Immediate Medical Attention
While many ovarian cysts resolve without intervention, certain symptoms can signal a medical emergency. The most concerning acute sign is the sudden onset of severe, sharp, and unrelenting pelvic pain. This may indicate a cyst has ruptured or that the ovary has twisted around its supporting ligaments, a condition called ovarian torsion.
Ovarian torsion cuts off the blood supply to the ovary and requires immediate surgical attention to save the organ. Symptoms of rupture or torsion often include severe nausea and vomiting. Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting alongside the sudden pain are significant warning signs that may indicate internal bleeding.
Any individual experiencing severe, acute pelvic pain, especially when combined with a fever or signs of shock (like rapid breathing and weakness), should seek emergency medical care immediately. These acute symptoms are distinct from chronic pressure-related discomfort and require urgent evaluation to prevent serious complications.