If you have cysts, however, you are already familiar with the bad news: they are often extremely painful and can be a source of nausea, fatigue, and headaches. Ovarian cysts can cause irregular menstrual cycles and even infertility. If you are experiencing this, I’m here to share a natural ovarian cysts cure.

As a PhD student, I’ve spent years studying the latest research on ovarian cysts, and my website is dedicated to helping women cope with them. Although there are a few common ways of treating cysts using “normal” methods (for example, surgery), and although these can be effective, they are not the only path to healing for women in need of an ovarian cysts cure. Most women suffering from cysts simply aren’t aware of the natural treatments that can eliminate this painful and demoralizing condition.

In the spirit of educating women in need of help, I have reviewed and recommended a few useful guides about alternative treatment.  If you are looking for an effective ovarian cysts cure, I strongly recommend you check out,

To those not familiar with natural medicine, I know the concept can seem strange and “New Age” at first. That’s why I think it’s important for a trained scientist like me to tell women that these treatments, when properly applied, really can work. You’ll find as you read that these suggestions are not as “weird” as the uninitiated might think. Primarily, they are about eating the right things, doing the right activities, and working with your body rather than against it.

In conclusion, women suffering from cysts know that anything that helps them beat this condition is a good thing. Please click on the link below for more information on Claire’s book and start your ovarian cysts cure today.

Click Here for More Information On Our Recommended Ovarian Cysts Cure

One of the more common types is known as a hemorrhagic ovarian cyst. You may not have been aware that there are different types of ovarian cysts. Sometimes called a blood cyst or hematocyst, a hemorrhagic cyst can cause a great deal of pain, and may even rupture in some cases.

A hemorrhagic cyst develops when one of the small blood vessels located in the wall of a recently formed cyst breaks for some reason. Blood from the vessel then spills into the body of the cyst, causing it to begin swelling at a fairly consistent pace.

As the blood engorged cyst swells, it stretches the covering on the ovary, creating a great deal of pain. Generally, the pain is felt along the right side of the abdominal area, although some women find the pain seems emanate from the left side.

Along with creating a significant amount of pain, a cyst of this type will often begin to develop blood clots. The clots can further complicate the situation by restricting blood flow. This in turn increases the level of discomfort, as well as increasing the risk for some type of damage to the ovaries.

A Hemorrhagic Ovarian Cyst May Rupture

While it is relatively uncommon, it is possible for a hemorrhagic ovarian cyst to rupture. When this happens, the blood that was encased in the cyst spills into the abdominal cavity. The pain will intensify noticeably when a rupture occurs, as well as increase the chances for infection in the cavity.

While a hemorrhagic ovarian cyst can cause a great deal of pain, there is not usually the need to undergo surgery. In many cases, the cyst will grow for a period of time, then begin to shrink and eventually disappear. Should you find the pain is noticeable enough to disrupt your day or keep you from sleeping soundly at night, your doctor can prescribe medication to help you manage the discomfort until the cyst shrinks.

For the most part, cysts of this type are self-limiting. That is, they do not tend to spread, and are less likely to rupture than some other cyst varieties. However, this does not mean you should avoid working with your doctor to deal with the situation.

Monitoring the hemorrhagic ovarian cyst to make sure that it is beginning to level off and does not pose a threat to the ovaries is very important. Even if the cyst ruptures, there may not be a need for surgery; depending on the findings of your physician, taking antibiotics to help with the pain and to kill off any chance for infection will be sufficient.

In situations where surgery to remove your hemorrhagic ovarian cyst is necessary, many women can undergo a less invasive procedure known as a laparoscopy. This approach requires two or three small incisions that allow the surgeon to locate and remove the cyst with relative ease.

Assuming there are no complications during the surgery or the recovery period, you could be healed in as little as a couple of weeks. However, your doctor can tell you what to expect, based on the general status of your health, and any risk factors that would impact your recovery, such as obesity or the use of tobacco products.

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]]> http://www.ovarian-cancer-facts.com/hemorrhagic-ovarian-cyst.html/feed 29 http://www.ovarian-cancer-facts.com/ovarian-cysts-treatment.html http://www.ovarian-cancer-facts.com/ovarian-cysts-treatment.html#comments Tue, 22 Feb 2011 08:05:18 +0000 OvarianDR http://www.ovarian-cancer-facts.com/?p=731 In this section, I have reviewed and compared several top Ovarian Cysts treatments.  I have given each of them ratings out of 5 stars. The factors for review mainly consisted of effectiveness of treatment, prevention of recurrence and ease of reading and use. Please read through these reviews and decide which one would work best for you.

Ovarian Cyst Miracle

Ovarian Cyst Miracle is the best home based treatment program I have reviewed.  It is well written, easy to follow, and provides realistic advice on how to relieve the pain of ovarian cysts and prevent them from recurring.

It covers everything you would want to know about ovarian cysts and lays it all out for you in the best way I have seen. This is our top recommendation for it’s simplicity, style and the writers own personal experience.

Click here for the official site for Ovarian Cyst Miracle

Ovarian Cysts Treatment

Ovarian Cyst Treatment is one of the top selling ovarian cyst home treatment programs on the internet but it has a few drawbacks. It is over 200 pages and contains a lot of “filler” and some of what’s recommended is difficult to follow.

It is still full excellent information but we have put it as our second recommendation due to being a bit a bit cumbersome.

Click here for the official site for Ovarian Cysts Treatment

Ovarian Cyst Cures

Ovarian Cyst Cures is also a decent product that has been around since 2008.  It is brief and covers a good base of the information about ovarian cysts, but comes as our third recommendation due to its hype and claims about what doctors don’t want you to know.

Click here for the official site for Ovarian Cyst Cures

Feedback on Ovarian Cysts Treatments

I hope these short reviews shed some light on whats available on the web for ovarian cysts treatments. If you do purchase one of these then please leave feedback below on what your thoughts are for others to benefit.

Likewise if you come across any new ovarian cysts treatments then we would love to hear about it here. So please leave a review below, or contacts us so we can do a review.

The Pap test is used to detect the presence of abnormally growing cells in the cervix. It is not used as a test for ovarian cancer. However, in 2008 a survey of 2000 Australian women revealed that 60% of those surveyed believe that abnormal Pap test results are a sign of ovarian cancer.

For cervical cancer, the pap test is a very useful procedure for detecting the disease when it is still in its early stages and as a consequence is easiest to treat. The cervix sits on top of the vagina and is the bottom part of the uterus. The location of the cervix means that doctors can quite easily obtain a sample of the cervix, which gets sent to a lab and examined under the microscope. The test aims to detect potentially pre-cancerous changes, which are usually caused by sexually transmitted human papillomaviruses (HPVs). The test remains an effective, widely used method for early detection of pre-cancer and cervical cancer.

A Pap Test May Provide a False Result

Sometimes having a routine gynecological exam and pap test come back normal can give a false sense of security, as it does not exclude the possibility of cancer in other reproductive organs such as the ovaries. In addition, there is at this point in time no screening test for ovarian cancer that is sensitive enough to detect ovarian cancer in its early stages and specific enough to distinguish ovarian cancer from other, noncancerous conditions. So being vigilant and being aware of the ovarian cancer symptoms is vital to ensure the disease is caught early on and the chances of survival are maximized. So trust your instincts, nobody knows your body like you do and if you have any symptoms that persist, don’t hesitate to see your doctor.

There is medication for lung cancer that was found to cure, so why have they not tried it on ovarian cancer?

These tumors differ clinically from the more common epithelial ovarian cancers. Around 70% of patients with these tumors are diagnosed when they are in stage 1, compared to about 75% of common epithelial cancers diagnosed when they are already at stage 3 or 4. As a consequence they are primarily treated with surgery and generally have a good prognosis.

One of the more apparent symptoms of this type of ovarian cancer is known as virilization. Essentially, this is a condition in which the female begins to develop traits that are more commonly associated with men. Among these symptoms is the development of facial hair that is far more pronounced than the slight dusting of facial hair that some women experience.

At the same time, the voice may become husky and somewhat hoarse sounding, effectively lowering it to a level that sounds almost masculine. There is also the possibility of vaginal bleeding, pain in the general area of the abdomen, and a change in the frequency and severity of the normal menstrual cycle. There are several different types of the sex cord stromal tumor.

A granulosa cell tumor is more likely to develop in women who are just past the age of menopause, often in their early fifties. This type of tumor accounts for 90% of sex cord tumors. Vaginal bleeding is one of the more common signs. While primarily considered a postmenopausal form of cancer, a granulosa cell tumor can also develop in young girls that are experiencing an early onset of puberty.

A Sertoli cell tumor produces an overabundance of Sertoli cells, which can create functional issues with the ovaries. Because Sertoli cells are produced at higher levels in men, women with this type of ovarian cancer are likely to find themselves developing noticeable facial hair or a gravelly voice.

In a similar manner, a thecoma can result in virilization. Because this tumor tends to produce higher levels of androgens, it can trigger growth of facial hair that is similar to that of men, as well as invoke other masculine traits.

The Leydig cell tumor triggers the production of Leydig cells, which are also more common for men than women. Like the Sertoli cell tumor and the thecoma, this form of sex cord stromal tumor causes the female to develop male traits like a lower voice and the sprouting of a beard.

When the tumor produces both Leydig and Sertoli cells, the growth is known as a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor. As the tumor grows, it causes facial hair production to increase significantly, and can also create mild mood swings.

With gynandroblastoma, there is a combination of increased production of granulosa and Leydig or Sertoli cells in the ovaries. A woman suffering with this type of sex cord stromal tumor is likely to experience more pronounced changes in mood as well as a change in the voice and the appearance of more facial hair. There is also the possibility of vaginal bleeding to take place.

The staging system used for sex cord stromal tumors is the same FIGO system used for epithelial ovarian tumors. With stage shown to be the most important predictor for survival in a number of studies.

Due to the rarity of these tumors, fertility-sparing surgery has not been widely studied, however one study showed that survival rates did not decrease when patients underwent this type of surgery. This is important given the fact that a lot of these tumors are diagnosed in young women who wish to preserve their fertility.

When the cancer is diagnosed early on, mortality rates are decreased substantially, making it possible to achieve a survival rate as high as 75% under optimum conditions. Several different approaches to treatment help to aid in lowering mortality rates, including some strategies that involve simple lifestyle changes.

In terms of medical treatments, mortality rates have been greatly impacted by the development of newer surgical techniques. While surgery is still considered a serious matter, surgeons can work with more precision today than at any time in the past. This has meant that it is easier to remove more of the cancer than in past decades, which helps to minimize the chances for recurrence at a later date, especially when the surgery is coupled with other treatments that have proven effective in lowering mortality rates.

The use of radiation therapy and chemotherapy has helped to lower mortality rates by a wide margin. Sometimes employed as the first line of defense, there are cases where a combination of these two therapies was able to shrink the cancer enough to save at least one ovary and fallopian tube. This is in contrast to intensive surgery where both ovaries and fallopian tubes, along with the uterus and lymph nodes in the abdomen, are completely removed.

Even if surgery is required, less debulking of the abdomen is required and the mortality risk is lowered significantly. As a result the women who want to bear children can still retain that potential even after experiencing this form of cancer.

Nutrition has proven to be very helpful in lowering ovarian cancer mortality rates. This is because eating foods that are rich in the right nutrients help to replace some of the stamina the body loses when dealing with cancer, or even recovering from surgery or the various therapies that have made ovarian cancer mortality less of possibility these days.

Generally, physicians will recommend consuming foods that are rich in protein, such as fish, poultry, eggs, and lean meats. For snacks, peanut butter or cottage cheese with a small amount of fruit are also excellent ways to ingest protein. Leafy vegetables that are high in nutritional content can also help the body recover from the side effects that are common with chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which will help the make the recovery phase much more pleasant.

While ovarian cancer mortality is still a very real danger today, mortality rates are much lower than in previous generations. By working with a physician to determine the best approach to treating the cancer, and taking the time to eat properly and get the right type of nutrition, the chances for survival are greatly increased. As research into the prevention and treatment of ovarian cancer continue, there is no doubt that the overall ovarian cancer mortality rate will continue to decrease.

See the graph below for mortality rates in the US as an example of how Ovarian Cancer compares to other types of cancer mortality rates:

Depending on the nature of your ovarian cancer prognosis, there are a few things that may help your situation. Being diagnosed with ovarian cancer is an extremely difficult event to process. After you’ve had the chance to get past the initial shock and accept that you do have cancer, you will probably begin to wonder if there is anything you can do to improve your chances for recovery. Fortunately, some forms such as borderline ovarian cancer or germ cell tumor can be effectively managed if caught early.

Assuming that your cancer is caught in the early stages, your first step to improve your prognosis is to discuss treatment options with your doctor. These can range anywhere from simple radiation treatments to the surgical removal of the cancer itself. Make sure you know the risks and possible benefits associated with each strategy employed in the treatment series. This will help you to prepare mentally for what will be experienced during the months ahead.

Along with implementing various types of treatments, it is also important to your ovarian cancer prognosis that you not neglect your physical and emotional well being. It’s too easy to slip into the habit of avoiding different activities that you normally love, as well as staying away from loved ones. There is a strong connection between the emotional and the physical aspects of your being that must not be allowed to deteriorate. If you really want to fight the cancer, live your life as fully as possible, surround yourself with loved ones, and refuse to dwell on what could happen.

As part of keeping your body and mind active, use exercise to improve your ovarian cancer prognosis. While there is not currently a direct link established between recovery from ovarian cancer and regular exercise, there is some speculation that regular exercise helps the rest of your body function more efficiently, despite the presence of the cancer. In addition, the endorphins released during exercise will help you maintain a positive attitude, something that is always important to the process of recovery.

Don’t neglect your diet during your treatments. Your ovarian cancer prognosis is likely to improve if your general health remains good. This means you should eat balanced meals that provide plenty of nutrients.

If you are not sure what to include in your diet, your physician can put you in touch with a qualified dietician that can help you design a health diet plan. By giving your body what it needs to keep going and fight the cancer, there is a good chance that the effectiveness of the treatments will be enhanced.

While undergoing treatments, keep in mind that following the instructions of your physician to the letter is key to making a difference in your ovarian cancer prognosis. Don’t put off tests or miss appointments for your treatments. Because ovarian cancer can progress rapidly, time is extremely important. If you really want to increase your chances of recovery, be dedicated to doing everything you can to slow down the spread of the cancer, and doing it according to the treatment regimen your doctor has put into place.

Ovarian cancer metastasis is a situation in which an ovarian tumor has been diagnosed as being malignant. In addition, there is evidence that the cancer has already begun to spread to other organs in the body. This means that not only are the ovaries in danger, but also other vital systems around your body. When metastasis takes place, your doctors will take steps to find out just how widespread the cancer has become, and what can be done to effectively treat your condition.

There are essentially four ways that ovarian cancer metastasis takes place. The first has to do with direct contact with the tumor itself. In this scenario, the tumor invades nearby organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or Fallopian tubes. While serious, this type of activity can often be identified quickly, which increases the chances of successful treatment.

Another way that the cancer spreads is known as seeding. Essentially, this is shedding cancer cells into the abdominal cavity. These cells can then attach to the liver, colon, or stomach and begin to proliferate. This scattering process makes it possible to infect several different key organs with relatively little effort.

A third process related to ovarian cancer metastasis involves portions of the tumor breaking off and invading the lymphatic system. The collections of cancerous cells are then transported to distant organs, such as the lungs, where new tumors form and grow. This is similar to the fourth process of metastasis, in which the cells travel through the bloodstream to other areas of the body, where they develop into various types of cancer.

Be prepared to undergo treatments for an extended period of time. In addition to surgery, there is also the possibility of the use of radiation and chemotherapy treatments to kill off any lingering cancer cells in your system. Regular bloodwork will be taken, in order to determine if there are indications of cancer somewhere in your body. There is a very good chance you will experience a great deal of pain during the course of the treatments, as well as bouts of fatigue and a wide range of aches and other types of discomfort.

Keep in mind that even if ovarian cancer metastasis has taken place, do not automatically assume that your situation is hopeless. While your chances for survival are certainly lessened once the cancer has begun to spread, there are still treatments that could allow you to enjoy more years, and possibly even bring the cancer under control for an indefinite period of time. Your doctor can help you understand exactly how far the cancer has progressed, as well as provide information on what can be done to fight the disease. From there, you can make decisions about what treatment options to pursue, and how to deal with the reality of the spread of the ovarian cancer to other places around your body.

Understanding the BRCA1 Gene and its Role in Ovarian Cancer

Also known as the Breast and Ovarian Cancer 1 early onset gene, the BRCA1 is a gene that is responsible for controlling the growth of cells in the breast and ovary. As long as the gene is functioning normally, it poses no threat at all. In fact, it plays a major role in maintaining the health of cells. However, when some sort of abnormality occurs, this important gene can open the door for the development of several different forms of cancer, including ovarian cancer.

Considered part of the family of genes that is normally identified as the tumor suppressor genes, BRCA1 works by regulating the process of cell division. This is accomplished by managing the rate at which cells divide as well as controlling how fast they grow. When functioning properly, the gene prevents random bursts of growth and cell division that increase the chances of the development of abnormal tissue that could in turn threaten the health of the individual.

The problem arises when something happens to prevent the gene from working as it should. As the cells begin to reproduce and expand in random ways, the potential for the development of a tumor increases significantly.

A small proportion of women who develop breast or ovarian cancer will do so because of the malfunction of this gene. For ovarian cancer, these make up about 5-10% of cases. There is also evidence that among women who do exhibit the presence of this abnormal gene, there is a higher risk of developing cancer if close female relatives have also been diagnosed with ovarian or breast cancer. In general, the risk of developing ovarian cancer if you possess a mutated gene can be up to 54%.

Currently, there are over 600 different mutations of the Breast and Ovarian Cancer 1 early onset gene. A common factor among many of these mutations is the production of a protein that is unable to help fix mutations in other genes. Instead, the number of mutated genes accumulates and may allow the cells to grow uncontrollably to form a tumor.

The average age of diagnosis for women who carry a mutated BRCA1 gene is significantly lower than those with the normal gene. Most ovarian cancers develop in women over the age of 50, whereas women with harmful BRCA1 mutations often develop cancer before 50 years old. A number of studies have reported that the survival may be higher for women with these gene mutations, at least in certain populations (Tan et al. 2008).

There is no way for you to know in advance if you have a mutated BRCA1 gene. You will not experience any type of discomfort or have any type of sign that the production of an abnormal gene is taking place. Only after the growth has begun to develop enough to cause symptoms and be detectable by various ovarian cancer screening methods will you know that anything is out of the ordinary.

This is a great video that explains in easy to understand terms what happens when someone carries a defective BRCA gene.

Keep in mind that the presence of the Breast and Ovarian Cancer 1 gene does not automatically mean you will develop breast or ovarian cancer. But it does mean that your chances of developing breast or ovarian cancer are greater than they would be otherwise.

If you have one or more relatives that have been diagnosed with breast and/or ovarian cancer, you may want to consult your doctor about the possibility of undergoing genetic testing and regular screening. And by making sure you have a complete physical each year and report any unusual sense of discomfort in the abdomen and pelvis to your doctor immediately, you have an excellent chance of detecting any potentially dangerous growth early on, thus increasing your chances for survival.

The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system. They are located on either side of the uterus, and very close physically to the fallopian tubes. They are small almond-shaped organs found in the lower part of the abdomen known as the pelvic cavity. Each ovary has an outer covering of cells called the epithelium.

Germ cells, which eventually mature into eggs, are found on the inside. The eggs travel through the fallopian tubes into the uterus where if fertilized, implants and develops into a fetus. The ovaries are also the main source of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. The picture below shows the anatomy of the female reproductive system.

The ovaries are made up of three types of tissue:

1. Epithelial cells, which cover the ovary.
2. Germ cells, which are found inside the ovary. They develop into eggs that are released into the fallopian tubes every month.
3. Stromal cells, which produce most of the estrogen and progesterone.

The different types of ovarian tumor are generally named according to the type of cells the tumor started from, therefore there are epithelial, germ cell and stromal ovarian tumors.

When we ask “what is ovarian cancer?” We expect to learn about the characteristics of ovarian cancer. Here are a few:

• It is not a common cancer, the lifetime risk is about 1 in 71 for invasive ovarian cancer.
• The mortality is quiet high. About 3 in 4 women with ovarian cancer survive at least 1 year after diagnosis, but just under half (46%) of women are alive at least 5 years after diagnosis according to The American Cancer Society.
• Most ovarian cancers develop in older women. Around half of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are 60 or older.

The rest of this site contains extensive information relating to symptoms, treatment, types and stages of ovarian cancer, if you would like to know more.

When asking “what is ovarian cancer?” many women would also like to know if ovarian cysts are a form of ovarian cancer. The fact is that most are not cancer. Ovarian cysts are formed when there is a collection of fluid inside the ovary. Most occur as a normal part of ovulation, and are called functional cysts. They usually go away within a few months without treatment. However a small number of cysts will be malignant, and should be removed via surgery straight away.

I hope this article has shed some light on the question many women ask: “what is ovarian cancer?”

It is important to answer the question: “What is cancer ?” to understand what exactly is going on in your body if you or a loved one is diagnosed with the disease. Contrary to what many people believe, cancer is not a single disease, there are more than 100 common types of cancer, ovarian cancer being one of them.
The different types of cancer can be grouped into different categories. The main ones include:

• Sarcoma: cancer that originates in muscle, fibrous tissue, fat, bone, cartilage or other connective or supportive tissue.
• Leukemia: cancer that originates in blood forming tissue such as the bone marrow or spleen. Large numbers of abnormal cells are produced which enter and circulate in the bloodstream.
• Lymphoma: cancer that originates in cells of the lymphatic system, which is a network of vessels and nodes that acts as the body’s filter.
• Carcinoma: cancer that originates in the body’s organs. They are the most common cancers. About 80% of cancers are carcinomas.
• Central nervous system: cancer that originates in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord.

Have you ever actually stopped and asked yourself “what is cancer?” Well, all cancers begin in cells, which are the body’s basic unit of life. All parts of the body, including organs, muscle, skin bone and blood are made up of cells. Cells constantly divide and multiply to replace old, damaged cells.

Normally, cells grow, divide and die in an orderly fashion. However, sometimes this process goes wrong. The DNA, or genetic material of a cell can become damaged or changed, and the cells can grow out of control, forming a mass of abnormal tissue, called a tumor.

Here is a diagram showing the development of cancer from normal cells:

In most cases tumors are benign, meaning they are not cancer, and usually aren’t life threatening. So you may ask yourself, “what is cancer then?” Malignant tumors are able to invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body. The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another is called metastasis.

Malignant tumors are cancer. However, it is important to note that not all cancers form solid tumors. For example, leukemia is a cancer of the blood where individual cells circulate within the bloodstream.

This diagram shows how cancer spreads:

In simple terms, an ovarian cyst is an abnormal growth that develops in one or both ovaries. The cyst begins life as an ovarian follicle. Once it has reached a size that is more than two centimeters, the growth officially becomes a cyst.

For the most part, the cyst is largely nothing more than liquid. A thin wall contains the liquid. For the most part, ovarian cysts are relatively soft to the touch and can be punctured with ease. However, there are some examples of cysts that developed with thicker walls, a factor that usually resulted in more pain for the woman dealing with the cysts.

There is a great deal of variance in the size of this type of cyst. Some are very small growths that never get larger than the size of a small pea. Others may grow to a size that roughly corresponds to the size of a mature cantaloupe (rockmelon). Doctors tend to monitor the growth pattern of ovarian cysts once they are detected in order to determine the most effective form of treatment.

One of the major misconceptions connected with explaining to anyone who asks, “what is an ovarian cyst?” is getting people to understand that the cyst is not necessarily cancerous. In fact, the vast majority of cysts are benign. Most of them will grow for a short time, then begin to shrink as they are reabsorbed into the body. Often, a cyst in an ovary will develop, grow, shrink, and ultimately disappear within three or so menstrual cycles.

While ovarian cysts tend to be benign, that does not mean they are not capable of causing a great deal of pain. This is an essential point when called upon to answer the question what is an ovarian cyst?.

It is not unusual for women with a cyst to feel some sort of constant discomfort in the general area of the pelvis. The pain is sometimes concentrated in the thighs or vagina, but may also be present in the lower back or the abdomen. Fortunately, many women find relief by using over the counter pain relievers in conjunction with heating pads and warm baths.

While a cyst is the ovary is treated as an abnormality, it is a very common occurrence. Women who are premenopausal are at the highest risk for developing cysts in the ovaries. However, there is also a significant number of women who have gone through menopause and still occasionally develop cysts. This means that any woman who is past the age of puberty is likely to experience ovarian cysts from time to time.

Men as well as women should be knowledgeable enough to answer the question what is an ovarian cyst? with relative ease. Having this information readily available not only makes it possible to quickly allay fears but can also motivate others to seek professional medical attention in order to assess the status of the cysts.

While an ovarian cyst rarely develops into a malignancy, seeing a doctor makes it possible to quickly treat the condition and eliminate the chances of allowing the cyst to become life threatening.

So next time you hear someone ask “What is an Ovarian Cyst?” hopefully this article will have added some value and you can explain exactly what an ovarian cyst is.

There is not a single answer to the question “what causes cancer?” In total, it is estimated that there are 200 different types of cancer. Cancer can arise in any cell or tissue of the body. Something that affects one tissue may not affect another.

For example, breathing in tobacco smoke may contribute to causing lung cancer. Overexposing your skin to the sun could cause a melanoma on your back. However, smoking won’t cause melanoma, and the sun won’t give you lung cancer.

Most illnesses that affect us as humans are what we call “multifactorial.” This means that there are many factors involved in causing the disease. The development of cancer is no exception, and this means that there is no single cause for any one type of cancer.

Knowing what causes cancer can in some cases help lower the risk of developing the disease. This article contains information about the various factors that can cause the development of cancer, and which factors you can avoid.

First of all, we need to define the term “carcinogen.” A carcinogen is something (a chemical for example) that can contribute to what causes cancer. Tobacco smoke is a powerful carcinogen, however not everyone that smokes gets lung cancer. Therefore there must be other factors at play. Some of these are described below:

Age

The underlying cause of cancer is genetic mistakes in our cells that cause them to grow uncontrollably. The longer we live, the more time there is for genetic mistakes to accumulate in our cells. It is a fact that most types of cancer become more common as we get older.

The reason for this is that the changes that make a cell become cancerous take a long time to develop, and there must be a number of changes to the genes within a cell before it can grow uncontrollably. These mistakes, or mutations, can happen by accident when the cell is dividing, or when the cell has been damaged by carcinogens and the damage is passed on to future daughter cells.

The day-to-day environment

There are factors in our environment that we are exposed to every day that may contribute to what causes cancer. These include:

• Ultraviolet radiation from the sun
• Tobacco smoke
• Workplace chemical hazards
• Asbestos
• Natural and man-made radiation

Obviously some of these are avoidable and others aren’t. It is a good idea to avoid these as much as you can.

Genetic make-up

As I mentioned above, there need to be a number of genetic mutations in a cell in order for it to become cancerous. Sometimes these mutations are inherited from an individuals parents which gives them a statistically higher chance of developing a particular cancer, depending on which gene has a mutation in it. Technically, it is called genetic predisposition.

Mutations in the Breast and Ovarian Cancer susceptibility genes 1 and 2 (BRCA1 and BRCA2) are an example of genes that give women a higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer than women without mutations. However, most women with breast or ovarian cancer do not have a mutated BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. Only about 5-10% of breast and ovarian cancers are due to these mutations.

There are also a number of other cancers where some people have a genetic predisposition including colon and skin cancer.

The Immune System

Problems with an individual’s immune system is another factor for what causes cancer. There are a number of conditions which will increase the risk of developing cancer including people who:

• Have had an organ transplant and take drugs to suppress their immune system to prevent organ rejection
• Have AIDS or HIV
• Are born with rare medical syndromes which affect their immunity

One important thing to know is that our immune system plays a crucial role in preventing cancer by getting rid of cells that are abnormal and possibly becoming cancerous. When the immune system isn’t working normally, the chances of a cancer cell not being recognised and eliminated by the immune system increases

Viruses

Viruses are involved in the development of some cancers. What causes cancer in these cases is the genetic changes that the virus causes in an individual’s cells.

Some viruses and the cancers they can cause are:

• Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) linked to cervical cancer and other genital and anal cancers
• Hepatitis B and C viruses and primary liver cancer
• Epstein-Barr virus and lymphomas
• Human T-cell leukaemia virus and T-cell leukaemia

Only in certain situations are these viruses what causes cancer. Not everyone that is infected with these viruses will get cancer. Having safe practices to prevent being infected with these viruses can help prevent these cancers.

Bacterial Infection

In the past, bacterial infections were not thought to be a factor in what causes cancer. However, studies have now shown that a stomach infection with Helicobacter Pylori leads to inflammation of the stmach lining, which increases the risk of stomach cancer.

Scientists are also looking at the possibility of some bacteria producing cancer causing substances in some people. This research is still in its early days.

Bacterial infections can be cured by antibiotics, so getting rid of an infection could be a way of reducing the risk of cancer.

Body weight, diet and physical activity

These days in western society, many of us eat too much red meat and processed foods, and not enough fruit and vegetables. A diet like this is known to be a contributing factor to what causes cancer. Alcohol can also increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer (e.g. liver, breast and bowel). Maintaining a healthy body weight, having a healthy diet and undertaking regular exercise is estimated to prevent 1 in 3 cancer deaths in the UK.

Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of bowel, pancreatic, kidney, gallbladder, breast and uterine cancers amongst others.

And How it is Related to Ovarian Cancer

While not every woman will experience vaginal bleeding as one of the symptoms related to ovarian cancer, the presence of bloody discharge is present often enough for it to be considered a serious indicator that something is wrong with the reproductive system.

If you do experience bleeding of this sort, it is important to realize what is happening and why you should see a doctor immediately.

First, it is important to recognize that the bleeding can be related to a health issue other than ovarian cancer. In fact, that is true with all the signs and symptoms connected with ovarian cancer. However, the only way you will know for sure is to see your physician, discuss what you are experiencing, and have the necessary blood work and other tests that will help determine the origin of the vaginal bleeding.

That being said, you should recognize that the bleeding could be due to the fact that the tumor is beginning to interfere with the normal function of your ovaries. This is especially true if you notice changes in your menstrual flow. As the tumor grows, your ovaries cannot efficiently see to the task of cleansing your reproductive system with the ease that was the case before the cancer began to develop. The result is a higher concentration of blood in the flow, and possibly more intense pain as a result.

However, bleeding due to ovarian cancer is not exclusive to the days when you experience your period. There are other times in which you may also find yourself bleeding for no apparent reason. For example, you may begin to notice the appearance of blood during or after intercourse. Assuming there have been no changes in the way your and your partner engage in sexual activity, the reason for the sudden bleeding is likely to be some form of inflammation that developed as a result of the cancer.

That inflammation may also create some degree of vaginal dryness, which in turn leads to pain during intercourse, followed by bleeding from tissues due to the lack of natural lubrication.

There is even the chance that you will experience vaginal bleeding after urination. This is particularly true if you are experiencing a more frequent desire to urinate and possibly placing more stress on your system when attempting to go.

Because one of the accompanying symptoms of ovarian cancer is changes in bowel and urinary habits, there is a good chance that the bleeding has to do with the adverse effect the growing tumor is having on your ovaries and the surrounding organs.

While it is not wise to jump to the conclusion that you have ovarian cancer simply because you are experiencing vaginal bleeding, there is no reason to discount the possibility either. Make the time to schedule an appointment with your doctor soon. Talk frankly about when and how the bleeding seems to take place most frequently. Doing so makes it easier for your doctor to initiate testing that will help to identify if cancer is the root cause, and begin effective treatment immediately if that is the case.

Sometimes referred to as a vaginal ultrasound, a transvaginal sonogram is one of the diagnostic tools that a physician will use to determine the presence and current status of ovarian cancer. The process makes it possible for the doctor to assess the condition of not only the ovaries, but also the cervix, uterus, and vagina. Many women who have never undergone this type of test are understandably a little nervous. Here are a few basic facts about how the sonogram is conducted, what you as a patient will experience, and how long it takes to obtain the results from the test.

Preparing for a transvaginal sonogram is a relatively simple process. Your bladder must be empty in order for the test to be accurate. For this reason, the physician may ask that you not drink anything for several hours before undergoing the sonogram. Once the time for the test arrives, you will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie on a table. During the process, the feet are placed in stirrups and the knees are bent.

With you in place, your physician will initiate the process by preparing a transducer for insertion into your vagina. Commonly referred to as a probe, this device uses waves to create images that help your doctor assess the current condition of the reproductive system. A monitor that is attached to the probe allows your doctor to view the images in real time. After placing a condom over the probe and lubricating the device with a gel, it is inserted into your vagina and begins to transmit the images.

The image below is a good graphical representation of what the procedure looks like:

An additional process that is known as saline infusion sonography is sometimes employed as part of the transvaginal sonogram. This involves introducing a small amount of saline solution into the uterus before the test begins. The saline can make it easier to capture a clear image of any unusual masses on the ovaries or in other areas of the reproductive system. However, this additional process is not used if you are pregnant.

For many women, this test is slightly uncomfortable during the initial insertion process, but this amount of pain usually fades in a moment or two. It is important to note that only a small portion of the device is actually inserted. However, there are women who do experience pain during the testing. It is important to alert your doctor immediately if the pain level continues to increase as the process continues. Any pain experienced during the test usually goes away immediately when the probe is withdrawn.

A transvaginal sonogram can detect health issues other than the presence of ovarian cancer. A malignancy in the uterus or vagina can also be identified using this test. During the course of a transvaginal sonogram, your physician can also identify any presence of infection in the general area, any twisting of the ovaries, and the presence of any cysts or other growths that are benign in nature.

Because the results of the sonogram are viewed in real time, it is very easy for a physician to tell you about anything he or she sees, and determine if more testing is necessary to confirm or deny the presence of cancer in the ovaries or elsewhere in the reproductive system.

One of the more common signs that women tend to experience is discomfort during sexual intercourse. This can be not only physically painful, but also emotionally frustrating for any woman who normally derives a great deal of pleasure from intercourse.

Fortunately, it is possible to take measures to alleviate the pain while treatment for the cancer is underway. Depending on the nature of the pain, your doctor may recommend you and your partner try different positions that help to ease pressure on your abdomen, as well as utilize additional lubrication. Don’t be shy about describing the exact nature of the pain and what is taking place when the pain commences. You doctor needs this data in order to provide you with practical suggestions.

Along with pain during sexual intercourse, vaginal bleeding is also among the more common symptoms of ovarian cancer. The bleeding may take place during intercourse for several reasons, but the bleeding can also occur for other reasons. Fortunately, your doctor can evaluate the problem and offer several options that are likely to minimize the bleeding, if not eliminate it altogether. Possible courses of treatment range from the use of additional lubrication to medication that will help to calm inflamed tissue.

You may also find yourself with pain, especially in the lower back region. This may be the result of pressure creating by the growth of the tumor itself. When that is the case, efforts to use chemotherapy or radiotherapy to shrink the tumor may also ease the back pain. If your doctor feels it is necessary, you may also receive prescription medication such as a muscle relaxer to help make it easier to manage the pain.

There is also the chance you might experience changes in your appetite. Dealing with symptoms of ovarian cancer of this nature is extremely important, especially if you are undergoing radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

You need nutrients to give your body what it needs to recover from both the treatments and the cancer. Talk with your doctor about ways to ease any sense of fullness you have, making it somewhat easier to eat a well balanced diet.

For each of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, there are ways to help ease the discomfort even while directly attacking the cancer itself. Never hesitate to share your symptoms with your doctor. Together, the two of you can identify solutions that will make the overall treatment process much easier on you physically as well as emotionally, and increase your ability to get on with living while you work to become free of ovarian cancer.

Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer is the most advanced form of this disease. In this stage ovarian cancer cells have metastasized and spread to other organs of the body such as the liver or lungs.

Together with Stage 3, these are known as the advanced ovarian stages.

See the image below for a detailed view of what Stage 4 looks like:

In the later stages of ovarian cancer, in particular stage 4 given the fact that prognosis is poorest for this stage, cytoreduction becomes crucial in those patients where it is technically feasible. If the procedure is performed “optimally” the prognosis for these patients can improve significantly and survival rates start to approach those of stage 3 cancer.

The procedure involves removing as much of the cancer as possible before patients undergo chemotherapy, to give the drugs the best chance of working by reducing the number of cells the chemotherapy has to kill. So it is important to ensure that the surgeon performing the procedure is experienced enough to achieve the best result possible.

3a: One or both ovaries and is grossly confined to the pelvis. Under the microscope cancer cells are found in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the omentum (a fatty layer covered by peritoneum which hangs over the intestines).

3b: One or both ovaries with confirmed implants of 2cm or less found on abdominal peritoneal surfaces.

3c: One or both ovaries with tumor growths larger than 2cm on peritoneal surfaces and/or cancer detected in lymph nodes in the upper abdomen, groin, or behind the uterus.

The majority of ovarian cancers are diagnosed at this stage.

See the picture below for details of what Stage 3 looks like:

The majority of ovarian cancers are diagnosed as stage 3. The peritoneal area is the most common site of spread for these cancers. Once the cancer is at this stage, treatment becomes more difficult, and this is demonstrated by the survival rates, which fall to about 20-40% 5-year survival, compared to up to 70% for stage 2.