How Large Can Ovarian Cysts Become? Surprisingly Massive, Says OB-GYN

Yikes! Just How Big Can Ovarian Cysts Get? Exhibit A: A 10.5-Pound Cyst

In a startling case, one woman, named Jessica Lee, discovered that she had an ovarian cyst the size of a small child. This painful growth not only affected her health but also contained more than a gallon of fluid.

If you’ve never faced an ovarian cyst, count yourself fortunate. Yet, if you have ovaries, there’s a good chance you might develop one at some point. Ovarian cysts can arise from various common issues, including hormonal imbalances, endometriosis, pregnancy, or pelvic infections. While you might be familiar with cysts in other parts of your body, encountering one on your ovaries can be alarming, especially if it grows larger than a dime. Most ovarian cysts are benign and may go unnoticed, but some can expand significantly, leading to discomfort and complications if not addressed.

This was the case for Jessica Lee from Minnesota. At just 25 years old, her abdomen swelled so dramatically that many assumed she was pregnant. After numerous examinations, doctors diagnosed her with an ovarian cyst. Initially measured at 8 centimeters—about the size of a softball—this cyst caused her severe pain, hair loss, and weight loss. Five years later, when it was finally removed, doctors revealed that it weighed an astonishing 10.5 pounds.

If you suspect you have an ovarian cyst or your doctor has confirmed one, you probably have many questions—especially after hearing Jessica’s story. Fortunately, we have the answers.

How Do Cysts Form and What Types Are There?

Ovarian cysts can form in different ways, depending on their type. The most common are functional cysts, which develop during the menstrual cycle. There are two main types of functional cysts:

Follicle Cysts – Typically, each month during your cycle, an egg grows inside a fluid-filled sac. If this sac doesn’t break open to release the egg, it can lead to a follicle cyst.
Corpus Luteum Cysts – After the egg is released, the sac should shrink into a cluster of cells. If it doesn’t shrink properly and instead gathers fluid, a corpus luteum cyst forms.

There are also less common types of cysts, such as:

Cystadenomas – These are filled with a watery fluid.
Dermoid Cysts – These arise from cells present from birth.
Endometriomas – These are related to endometriosis, where uterine lining grows outside the uterus.

How Much Pain Can Ovarian Cysts Cause?

The level of pain associated with ovarian cysts varies based on their type. Follicle and dermoid cysts typically don’t cause symptoms. However, corpus luteum cysts can lead to bleeding and cramps, usually resolving within weeks. While some women may only experience a single cyst, others suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can cause continuous cyst formation.

Are Cysts Cancerous or Can They Cause Cancer?

According to WomensHealth.gov, malignant cysts are rare and more likely in older women. While ovarian cysts should always be assessed by a doctor, most are non-cancerous. If you suspect you have one, try not to panic; it’s essential to seek medical advice and maintain regular check-ups to catch any potential issues early.

How Large Can Cysts Grow?

Dr. Alex Robles, a board-certified OB-GYN at Columbia University Medical College, states, “Ovarian cysts can grow quite large. Most are under 10 centimeters, but some can expand to the size of a full-term pregnancy.” He warns that untreated cysts can rupture, leading to severe pain and internal bleeding, or result in ovarian torsion, which is a surgical emergency.

Indications for surgery include symptomatic cysts, those larger than 10 centimeters, continuous growth, or concerns of cancer. Regular gynecological visits are crucial for catching abnormalities before they escalate.

For more insights, check out this informative article. You may also want to explore this resource for additional information on pregnancy and home insemination.

Search Queries:

In summary, ovarian cysts can become surprisingly large and cause significant health issues if left unchecked. Regular gynecological check-ups are essential for early detection and management.