The ovaries, two small, almond-shaped organs located on either side of the uterus, play a significant role in the female reproductive system by producing eggs and hormones. Ovarian swelling indicates an underlying medical condition. This swelling is a symptom, not a diagnosis, and can stem from various factors; some minor and self-resolving, others requiring medical attention. Understanding the reasons behind ovarian swelling is important for evaluation and care.
Recognizing Ovarian Swelling
Ovarian swelling can cause a range of symptoms, often centered in the pelvic area. Pelvic pain is a common manifestation, which can vary from a dull, persistent ache to sharp, sudden discomfort. Bloating and general abdominal discomfort are also frequently reported, making clothes feel tighter around the waist.
Changes in the menstrual cycle, such as irregular periods or heavier bleeding, can also signal an issue with the ovaries. Pain during intercourse or bowel movements may occur as the enlarged ovary presses against surrounding structures. Some individuals might also experience nausea or vomiting, particularly if the swelling is acute or associated with complications. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist, are severe, or include fever, sudden intense pain, dizziness, or fainting.
Common Reasons for Ovarian Swelling
Ovarian cysts, fluid-filled sacs that form on or within the ovary, are a frequent cause of swelling. Functional cysts, like follicular and corpus luteum cysts, are common and typically benign, forming as part of the menstrual cycle. Follicular cysts develop when a follicle fails to rupture and release an egg, continuing to grow, while corpus luteum cysts form if the corpus luteum sac reseals after releasing an egg and fills with fluid. Other common benign cysts, like dermoid cysts, contain various tissues such as hair, skin, or teeth, and endometriomas are cysts filled with old blood.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder leading to ovarian enlargement. It is characterized by numerous small, fluid-filled sacs (immature follicles) on the ovaries that failed to release eggs. These follicles increase ovarian size. PCOS can disrupt the regular release of eggs and impact hormone balance, further influencing ovarian structure.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) can also cause ovarian swelling. This infection affects the female reproductive organs, often originating from sexually transmitted bacteria that ascend from the vagina or cervix into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. The infection leads to inflammation and can result in abscess formation around the ovaries and fallopian tubes, contributing to their enlargement. Prompt treatment prevents long-term complications.
Less Common Conditions Causing Ovarian Swelling
Endometriosis, where uterine lining-like tissue grows outside the uterus, can cause ovarian swelling. When this tissue implants on the ovaries, it forms endometriomas, sometimes called “chocolate cysts” due to their dark, tar-like contents. These cysts expand over time as they fill with old blood, leading to ovarian enlargement and associated pain.
Ovarian torsion is a less common but urgent medical condition involving acute ovarian swelling. This occurs when an ovary twists around its ligaments, cutting off blood supply. Lack of blood flow causes the ovary to rapidly swell and become extremely painful. Ovarian torsion is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention to preserve the ovary.
Less frequent, growths on the ovary, both non-cancerous (benign) and cancerous (malignant) tumors, can also contribute to ovarian enlargement. These growths are distinct from typical cysts in their cellular composition and growth patterns. Although many ovarian masses are benign, any persistent or rapidly growing mass warrants thorough investigation.
How Ovarian Swelling is Diagnosed
Diagnosis for ovarian swelling typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. During this assessment, a healthcare provider will ask about symptoms, menstrual history, and relevant health information. A pelvic exam may check for tenderness, masses, or ovarian enlargement.
Pelvic ultrasound is the primary imaging technique to visualize ovaries and detect cysts, masses, or general enlargement. This non-invasive procedure uses sound waves to create images of internal reproductive organs, allowing detailed assessment of ovarian size, shape, and characteristics. Depending on findings, further imaging, such as a transvaginal ultrasound, might be performed for a closer view.
Blood tests often provide additional diagnostic information. A pregnancy test is typically performed to rule out ectopic pregnancy, which can present with similar symptoms. Blood tests may also include inflammatory markers for infection, or hormone level assessments to aid in diagnosing conditions like PCOS. If ultrasound is inconclusive or more detailed imaging is needed, a CT scan or MRI may further evaluate ovarian swelling and surrounding structures.