Ovarian Cancer vs Ovarian Cysts: Differences and Facts You Should Know

The female reproductive system is a delicate network that comprises the external genitalia and the reproductive tract. However, the ovaries have essential functions of producing progesterone and estrogen hormones and are where eggs are formed. Thus, they play a vital role in reproduction. Sometimes issues like ovarian cyst symptoms, which may be similar to those of ovarian cancer, can arise, causing discomfort and raising concerns about overall reproductive health

When you are diagnosed with ovarian cysts, you might worry about ovarian cancer. This is especially true since both conditions bring on similar symptoms, although there are differences between these two conditions.

What Is an Ovarian Cyst?

Ovarian cysts are small, fluid-filled structures formed on or inside the ovary. It occurs due to various factors such as hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, endometriosis, certain fertility drugs, etc. Ovarian cysts typically do not produce symptoms unless they become large and cause discomforting symptoms. These symptoms include pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, pain during sex, etc.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

The major types of cysts include;

• Functional cysts: This type of cyst is common in any woman of childbearing age. This type comes in 2 forms: follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts. The former develops during the follicular phase of the monthly cycle. It results when the follicles don’t shrink or release eggs during ovulation and become fluid-filled. The latter forms when the corpus luteum fills with fluid instead of dissolving as it should.
• Chocolate cysts: This is peculiar to women with endometriosis accompanied by cysts in their ovaries. These cysts, also called endometriomas, are lined with the endometrial cells located in the uterus lining. The old blood in the cysts gives them their characteristic chocolate appearance attributed to the name.
• Cystadenomas: These cysts develop from the cells that cover the ovary. These cysts are usually non-cancerous, but some can become malignant.
• Dermoid cysts: These develop in the ovarian cells that can form into different tissues as eggs develop. These cysts can contain materials like hair, teeth, bone, and cartilage.
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): Polycystic means many tiny, benign ovarian cysts. These cysts develop due to problems with ovulation caused by hormonal imbalances. However, some women can have multiple cysts in their ovaries but don’t have PCOS. This tends to go away with time. Multiple cysts associated with PCOS come with other symptoms like excess body hair, period problems, obesity, and acne.

How Is Ovarian Cancer Different From Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cancer and ovarian cysts have similar symptoms, such as abdominal bloating and pain. Here are some differences between these two conditions:

How Can You Prevent Ovarian Cancer?

Modifiable risk factors of ovarian cancer, such as smoking, use of oral contraceptives, and diabetes, should be recognized this month of ovarian cancer awareness. Lifestyle modification can also reduce the risk of developing ovarian cysts, which, in rare cases, can become malignant.

Also, ovarian cyst development is a normal occurrence, which you shouldn’t worry about. Taking care of your reproductive health through the use of supplements from NATURE’SFIELD is a sure way to take control of your physical well-being and successful conception in the future.