Introduction
An ovarian cyst is a sac developed on the ovary; it swells up as it fills with fluid. It is called a hemorrhagic cyst when it breaks open and releases blood and fluid. Usually, it is asymptomatic. There are several types; the common types are harmless and do not need treatment. However, in very rare cases, it may cause complications.
What Is an Ovarian Cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a semisolid material or sac formed on one or both ovaries. Ovaries hold eggs and release estrogen and progesterone hormones. Usually, ovarian cysts are asymptomatic and harmless. However, very rarely, ovarian cysts cause complications.
What Are the Different Types of Ovarian Cysts?
Essentially most ovarian cysts are functional cysts formed in response to the body changes during the menstrual cycle. Ovulation results in a functional cyst that is not diseased and does not require any specific treatment. The types of functional cysts are:
Follicular Cyst
Every month as a part of the menstrual cycle, a small sac called a follicle releases an egg; when this follicle does not release an egg, it gets filled with fluid and swells up; it is called a follicular cyst.
Corpus Luteum Cyst
The Corpus luteum is formed by a group of hormone-producing cells after the release of a hormone by the follicle. A cyst is formed when the corpus luteum is filled with fluid.
What Is the Corpus Luteum?
The corpus luteum cyst is a harmless mass formed on the ovary, which is generally filled with fluid. The Corpus luteum is essential during pregnancy as it releases a hormone called progesterone, which shields the fetus. These cysts are also filled with blood when ruptured, releasing blood and fluid. These cysts are not symptomatic; they are found only when ruptured.
Who Is Affected by the Corpus Luteum Cyst?
Anyone who menstruates can be affected by the corpus luteum, but if the person is pregnant, the corpus luteum may be a bit longer as it supports pregnancy. They are usually painless.
How Common Is the Corpus Luteum Cyst Seen?
Usually, during imaging, corpus luteum cysts are found during pregnancy. They are common types of cell growth seen during the first trimester of pregnancy.
What Are the Symptoms of Corpus Luteum Cyst?
These cysts are generally asymptomatic; they are identified only when they rupture as bleeding (hemorrhagic) or twisting (torsion) occurs. These situations usually result in severe pelvic pain, vomiting, nausea, or weakness. Some symptoms are:
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Pelvic pain.
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Abdominal fullness.
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Pain during poop or pee.
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One-sided body pain.
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Pain in the lower back and lower body.
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Dyspareunia (pain during intercourse).
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Blood discharge when not having a menstrual cycle.
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Pain in the breasts.
What Are the Causes?
The corpus luteum usually breaks off after ovulation; the cysts are formed when the corpus luteum does not break down, like in pregnancy. If fertilization occurs, the egg is not released by the follicular sac; in this stage, the corpus luteum is not ruptured, which helps with pregnancy. The Corpus luteum releases a hormone called progesterone which forms a thick lining of the uterus, which helps the fertilized egg get attached. It forms a perfect environment for the fetus.
The corpus luteum usually breaks down when progesterone is not needed; it stays around 12 weeks only during pregnancy, and it breaks down when the placenta starts producing enough progesterone. If the egg's fertilization does not occur, then the corpus luteum stays for ten days after ovulation and breaks down. It turns out to be a cyst when the corpus luteum does not break down and expands by filling up fluids.
How Is It Diagnosed?
There are two methods to diagnose corpus luteum; they are:
Imaging
The corpus luteum cysts are usually seen through ultrasound imaging. First, a transvaginal ultrasound is done, allowing the doctor to look closely at the uterus and vagina. Then, a delicate wand that produces sound waves is inserted into the vagina, producing visuals in the monitor. It allows the doctor to see for any cyst or mass like corpus luteum.
Tests
Occasionally, hormonal levels are tested to see the presence of cysts.
What Is the Treatment Procedure for the Corpus Luteum?
Usually, no treatment is needed for the corpus luteum, as it is harmless and breaks away on its own. In the case of pregnancy, it remains in the first trimester and breaks during the second trimester; if it is present in the absence of pregnancy, then it will be gone in a few days. However, in rare cases where the cyst develops without breaking down, there are chances for the cyst to damage the ovaries or pose a risk during pregnancy; in such cases, the doctor removes the cyst.
How Does Ayurveda Treat the Corpus Luteum?
Ovarian cysts are called Kapha granthi aartva dosha, whereas aartva means ovaries and granthi means the cyst. According to ayurveda, cysts are formed due to an imbalance in the Kapha dosha and variations in the pitta and Vata dosha. In ayurvedic therapy, ovarian cysts are formed due to blockage or accumulation of doshas. Ayurvedic therapy helps balance all doshas and unblock channels, preventing ovarian cysts formation.
How to Keep the Corpus Luteum Healthy?
There are no specific methods to keep the corpus luteum healthy as a new corpus luteum is formed every month, which breaks down after each ovulation. Instead should be on balancing the hormonal level. Some lifestyle changes that help to balance the hormonal level are
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Plenty of good quality sleep.
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Should take care not to overexert during regular physical exercise.
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Should take a healthy diet, with lots of protein and good fats.
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Balance the stress level, which causes significant fluctuation in the hormonal level.
Conclusion
An ovarian cyst is a sac that is formed on the ovaries that are filled with fluid substances. When these sacs are filled with fluids, and blood, which releases the same during rupture, it is called a hemorrhagic ovarian cyst. These cysts do not show any symptoms or pain and are harmless; they are identified when it ruptures. Usually, these cysts are formed every month as they break down after ovulation. They remain back for a few weeks only during pregnancy as they produce progesterone hormone, which provides a home for the fetus. Usually, it is not treated, but when these cysts do not break and get enlarged, there is a chance it may affect the ovaries or the pregnancy, so they will be removed by the doctor, which is a very rare case.
