Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Cystic Ovary - Understanding Cystic Ovaries, Its Symptoms and Treatments


Cystic Ovaries Are Different Then Having An Ovarian Cyst

If you have been diagnosed with a cystic ovary, you may be concerned about how this condition will affect you in the long run. A cystic ovary is a bit different from the occurrence of simple functional cyst and not nearly as common. Many women, who have PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, have a history of the condition in their families.

Polycystic Ovary syndrome is a set of symptoms that include a cystic ovary where a cluster of undeveloped follicles form cysts. This can occur when a woman does not ovulate regularly. In many cases, there aren't any symptoms and some women don't even know they have the condition unless the ovary becomes enlarged to the point that pain is being experienced or they have problems getting pregnant. When the doctor begins to run tests to determine the reason for their infertility, a PCOS diagnosis may be the answer.

In addition to the symptom of a cystic ovary, women with PCOS also experience a hormone imbalance. Approximately 4% to 10% of women during their reproductive years are diagnosed with PCOS, which is actually a metabolic dysfunction.

Symptoms And Treatment Methods You Can Expect

Some of the symptoms include infertility, persistent acne, obesity and an inability to lose weight, irregular periods, excessive body hair, thinning hair and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and breast or uterine cancer.

Traditional medical treatment for PCOS is usually determined based on the symptoms that present. Prescription hormone therapy is often recommended to help regulate and correct hormone levels. If diabetes is present, for example, it will be treated with insulin or diet.

It is important to understand that you can have a cystic ovary and not have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Studies have been done that have shown that many women with polycystic ovaries have no fertility problems whatsoever. Many women do not show any of the other signs of PCOS and see improvement when they make lifestyle changes that help balance their hormone levels.

Hormones Levels, Diet And Stress Can Lead To Cystic Ovaries

Hormone levels in women fluctuate throughout the monthly cycle and are very susceptible to outside influences. Stress can have a negative impact on hormone balance for example. Women who are experiencing high levels of stress may develop a cystic ovary as a result. Making an effort to eliminate stress and the negative impact it has on the body may help the cysts to dissolve.

Other factors, such as diet, have an enormous impact on hormone levels as well. Studies have revealed that women who are obese have a much higher likelihood of developing all types of ovarian cysts. It only makes sense that losing weight would be a first step to take if you find yourself with a cystic ovary.

Food choices are also an important factor. Foods high in sugar, white flour, preservatives, etc. all have a negative influence on hormone levels. Our bodies function much more efficiently when our diet consists of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean protein. Some research suggests that a diet high in meat and cheese is more likely to result in a cystic ovary.

Natural Treatment Methods Work Well In Getting Back To Better Health

A vitamin and mineral supplement is also often suggested in a natural treatment for a cystic ovary. It may help to boost the immune system and balance hormones. Herbalists suggest a variety of herbs as a treatment for the underlying hormonal imbalance and use them for their detoxifying properties.

If you have been diagnosed with a cystic ovary, be sure and follow your physician's recommendations. You may want to discuss a holistic approach. One type of treatment does not exclude the other and a natural remedy may be all you need.

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