Ovaries are an integral part of the female reproductive system. They are almond-shaped and responsible to produce and store the female egg in every menstrual cycle. Another major function that the ovaries perform is the release of female hormones, estrogen, and progesterone.

What are ovarian issues?

During a woman’s reproductive journey, the ovaries go through multiple changes. The released eggs and hormones cause changes in the female body. Distortion in the process may lead to certain issues including ovarian cancer, primary ovarian insufficiency, ovarian cysts, polycystic ovarian syndrome, ovarian torsion or twisting of the ovary.

How are ovarian issues diagnosed?

You may be asked to take certain tests that would help your doctor understand the exact status of your ovaries and any associated problems.

DHEA Sulfate test – With the measure of DHEA sulfate (male sex hormone) in your blood, your doctor may be able to indicate the development of male sexual characteristics in your body. This is to find out whether your reproductive glands are functioning the way they are supposed to and to find the reason for excessive hair growth, or disorders of the ovary.
Estrogen level test- Estrogen or E1 along with Estradiol (E2) and Estriol (E3) are types of the estrogen hormone. A measure of these types of hormones helps your doctor to understand your infertility status, help diagnose your birth defects, and monitor a high-risk pregnancy, vaginal bleeding, or problems associated with irregular menstrual cycles. This test may also be suggested in case of early or delayed puberty.
Laparoscopy- Laparoscopic surgery is used to diagnose infections, unexplained bleeding, blockages, tumours or any other growths. They are also used to look for ovarian cysts, endometriosis, pelvic prolapse, and fibroids.
Pelvic Ultrasound- A pelvic ultrasound may be suggested to evaluate the status of your urinary bladder, fallopian tubes, cervix, uterus, and ovaries. This may be done in cases of pelvic pain and abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Level test: FSH is the hormone that controls your menstrual cycle and helps control the growth of your eggs. The measure is used to find the cause of infertility, problems associated with ovarian function, menopause or perimenopause.

What are the symptoms of ovarian issues?

Common symptoms of ovarian issues start in the pelvis region. When you experience sudden and unexplainable pelvic pain, you may want to get in touch with your doctor to find the exact reason behind the issue.

How are ovarian issues treated?

The goal of treating ovarian issues is to understand the major reasons behind them. Certain therapies including hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and targeted therapy may be recommended by your doctor to help your condition better. Radiation therapy is also seldom suggested for ovarian cancers, which use radiation to remove cancerous tissue from your body.

Hormonal therapy is recommended for women who are facing even mind to severe hormonal issues. It can cure everything from PCOS to ovarian cysts, if taken in time, coupled with some changes in lifestyle and diet. Be mindful of all the symptoms you are experiencing, and tell them to your doctor so he/she can help you through with your condition.

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1. What are ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts are smaller sacs, usually filled with fluid in ovaries or on their surface. In a condition when there are increasing cysts in ovaries, they could happen in either of the ovaries, leading to abnormal shape and size of the ovaries.

2. What kind of problems can you have with your ovaries?

Some common problems that you may have with your ovaries are related to your hormones. One such hormonal condition is PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome which happens in women of childbearing age. The condition leads to disturbances in the hormonal levels of the body, causing irregular or missed periods, excessive hair growth, infertility, acne, or associated weight gain.

3. What are the early warning signs of ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer may be caught early if you look at the early signs. Some of these include nausea, pelvic/abdominal pain, cramping, indigestion, feeling full quickly, bloating, constipation, urination, abdominal swelling, etc.

4. What are the symptoms of inflamed ovaries?

Common symptoms associated with inflamed ovaries are changes in bowel habits, pelvic pain, pressure, irregular menstrual cycles, and increased urinary urgency.

5. When should I be concerned about my ovaries?

Feeling sick, feverish, or nauseous may indicate it’s time for you to go see a doctor. However, if you feel sudden or severe stomach/pelvic pain, experience rapid breathing, and feel dizzy, you may need to seek immediate medical treatment for your ovaries.