Hailey Bieber reveals she has ovarian cysts: What is it? Know the symptoms

Hailey Bieber has recently opened up about her struggles with reproductive health. The model and beauty mogul, 28, spoke about suffering from ovarian cysts. On April 21, she took to her Instagram story she revealed," Currently have 2 ovarian cysts." She also posted her picture showing her belly, and added, "If you deal with ovarian cysts, I'm right there with ya!"

What are ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside an ovary. They are relatively common, according to the NHS, and do not usually cause any symptoms. These are especially found during the reproductive years, and many women will experience at least one ovarian cyst in their lifetime. Ovarian cysts may affect both ovaries at the same time, or they may only affect one.

There are different types of ovarian cysts. Functional cysts are the most common type, and they form in response to your body’s changes during your menstrual cycle. These include follicular cysts, which form when the follicle doesn’t release an egg. Corpus luteum cysts develop after an egg is released and the follicle reseals.

There are also pathological cysts. These are less common and may be caused by abnormal cell growth. They include dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, and endometriomas (linked to endometriosis).

Most ovarian cysts are harmless, painless, and go away on their own without any treatment. However, some can cause complications, including rupture, hemorrhage, and torsion, which are considered gynecological emergencies.

As ovarian cysts don't always cause symptoms, you are unlikely to find them, unless your doctor detects it during a pelvic exam or a pelvic ultrasound.
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What are the symptoms of an ovarian cyst?


Ovarian cysts can be symptomatic or asymptomatic. The symptoms usually show up when it ruptures, or is very large or twists and blocks the blood supply to the ovaries. Some of the symptoms include:

• pelvic pain, ranging from a dull, heavy sensation to a sudden, severe, and sharp pain
• pain during sex
• difficulty emptying your bowels
• a frequent need to urinate
• heavy periods, irregular periods, or lighter periods than normal
• bloating and a swollen tummy
• feeling very full after only eating a little
• difficulty getting pregnant, although fertility is usually unaffected by ovarian cysts
  

When to seek medical attention?

If you have a sudden, severe pelvic pain or have pain in your tummy (abdomen) along with nausea or vomiting, seek immediate medical attention. The treatment usually depends on its size, appearance, whether you have any symptoms, and menopause, among others.