Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on an ovary. These common formations are usually benign, often forming as a normal part of the menstrual cycle. While many cysts cause no symptoms and resolve on their own, some can influence menstrual cycle regularity, occasionally leading to a delayed period.
Types of Ovarian Cysts Linked to Period Delay
Functional cysts are the types of ovarian cysts most frequently associated with menstrual cycle disruptions, including period delays. These cysts arise from the normal functioning of the menstrual cycle itself. Follicular cysts, for instance, form when a follicle meant to release an egg continues to grow instead of rupturing.
Another common functional cyst is a corpus luteum cyst, which develops after an egg has been released. Normally, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces hormones to prepare the uterus for pregnancy. If the opening seals off and fluid accumulates inside, it can form a corpus luteum cyst. Unlike functional cysts, other ovarian growths such as dermoid cysts, endometriomas, or cystadenomas typically do not interfere with hormonal balance in a way that causes period delays.
How Ovarian Cysts Impact the Menstrual Cycle
Ovarian cysts, particularly functional ones, can impact the menstrual cycle by disrupting the delicate balance of hormones that regulate it. A follicular cyst, by persisting on the ovary, can prevent the timely release of an egg, a process known as ovulation. This delay in ovulation means the body does not receive the usual hormonal signals that trigger the start of a new menstrual phase.
Similarly, a corpus luteum cyst might continue to produce progesterone, maintaining higher hormone levels for longer than usual. This sustained hormonal influence can delay the shedding of the uterine lining, which constitutes a menstrual period. The disruption to normal hormonal fluctuations of estrogen and progesterone prevents the uterus from receiving the signal to begin menstruation at its expected time.
Duration of Period Delay Caused by Cysts
The duration a period can be delayed by an ovarian cyst often ranges from a few days to several weeks, with some individuals experiencing delays of one or two menstrual cycles. The exact length of the delay is influenced by the cyst’s size, type, and how quickly it resolves. Functional cysts, the most common cause of such delays, are generally temporary.
Most functional cysts typically resolve on their own within one to three menstrual cycles. The period delay usually persists until the cyst either shrinks or ruptures, allowing the normal ovulatory process to resume. Once hormonal balance is restored, the menstrual cycle can reset, leading to the eventual arrival of the period. While a delay of a few weeks is common, longer delays might occur if the cyst is larger or takes more time to disappear.
Recognizing Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Attention
Beyond a delayed period, ovarian cysts can sometimes present with other noticeable symptoms. These may include pelvic pain, which can range from a dull ache to a sharp, sudden sensation, particularly if the cyst ruptures or causes the ovary to twist. Bloating, a feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen, and changes in bowel or bladder habits can also occur. When the period eventually arrives, its flow or accompanying discomfort might differ from usual.
It is important to seek medical attention if a delayed period is accompanied by severe or sudden pelvic pain, especially if it is sharp or radiates. Other concerning symptoms that warrant immediate medical evaluation include fever, dizziness, faintness, or rapid breathing. Any unusually long period delay, particularly if it extends beyond a few weeks and is coupled with other distressing symptoms, should prompt a consultation with a healthcare professional.
Diagnosis and Management of Ovarian Cysts
The diagnosis of an ovarian cyst typically begins with a pelvic examination, where a healthcare provider may feel an enlargement or mass on the ovary. This initial assessment is often followed by imaging tests, with a pelvic ultrasound being the most common and effective method for visualizing the ovaries and identifying the presence, size, and characteristics of any cysts. Blood tests may also be performed to check hormone levels or rule out other conditions.
For most functional ovarian cysts that cause period delays, the primary management approach is often watchful waiting, as they frequently resolve without intervention. Healthcare providers might recommend monitoring the cyst over one to two menstrual cycles to observe if it shrinks or disappears. In some cases, hormonal birth control may be prescribed to prevent the formation of new functional cysts in future cycles. Surgical intervention is rarely needed but might be considered for very large cysts, those causing persistent severe symptoms, or those suspected of being non-benign.