What Are Enlarged Ovaries?

An ovary that has grown larger than usual is known as an enlarged ovary. Enlarged ovaries are a result of a variety of factors, each with varying degrees of severity. The ovaries are an element of a woman’s endocrine and reproductive system. They are in charge of releasing hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which play a role in the menstrual cycle, the development of female secondary sex characteristics, and even changes in voice. Your ovaries may become enlarged or swollen for a variety of causes. Some causes of enlargement of the ovaries are completely harmless, as, on the other hand, your ovary naturally swells during your menstrual cycle as an egg grows and is ready to be released. Cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that grow in the ovaries, are also another reason for these organs to expand.

Enlarged ovaries later in life could be a symptom of ovarian cancer. This is a serious situation. Ovarian cancer is uncommon in general, thus it’s unlikely to be the cause of the swelling. Even so, it’s important to undergo an imaging test to determine what exactly is going on.

9 Causes of Enlarged Ovaries

Cyst formation is the most common cause of enlarged ovaries. Cysts are sac-like structures that normally contain fluid or other material; they are usually non-cancerous. Note, however, that there are a variety of reasons for ovarian enlargement. The following are the most common causes of ovarian enlargement:

Corpus Luteum Cyst

A corpus luteum cyst develops after the egg is discharged from the ovary’s follicle, usually in the second half of the menstrual cycle. The corpus luteum, which the follicle is currently developing into, produces massive amounts of estrogen and progesterone. The corpus luteum will break down and dissolve if sperm have not fertilized the egg during this time. However, in rare circumstances, rather than breaking down, the corpus luteum fills with fluid or blood and expands into a cyst, causing the ovary to grow.

Dermoid Cyst

This type of cyst is commonly referred to as a cystic teratoma since it contains tissue or organ components. The cyst contains adult skin, hair, sweat glands, bones, nails, teeth, eyes, and cartilage, among other things. Dermoid cysts are common at birth, although often don’t show up until later in life.

PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Disease)

This is due to an increase in androgen (male hormones) in the female body, resulting in a hormonal imbalance. Lack of menstruation or heavy periods, extra body or facial hair, acne, pelvic pain, and a patch of thick, dark, velvety skin are some of the symptoms. The causes of its occurrence are a combination of environmental and genetic variables, while the exact cause of its occurrence is unknown.

Metastatic Cancer

Metastatic cancer is the most dangerous type of cancer since it has the ability to move from its original site to other organs. Cancers of the liver, lungs, or peritoneum are quite likely to spread to the ovaries.

Nonmalignant Tumors

Nonmalignant tumors, also known as benign tumors, are benign tumors that are self-contained and do not have the ability to spread. Benign tumors grow more slowly than malignant tumors, and if they form in the ovary, they can increase it.

Ovarian Cancer

There are many different forms of ovarian cancer, each with a different level of malignancy. It could be the cause of an enlarged ovary, depending on the type of cancer.

Follicle Cyst

This is the most common type of ovarian cyst, and it is defined by the follicle’s inability to rupture, releasing its egg for possible fertilization. Instead, it becomes a cyst.

Ovarian Torsion

Torsion of the ovary and fallopian tube is a medical emergency. Abdominal pain due to a clogged blood supply is much less common in women. Torsion of the ovary can cause stromal edema, internal bleeding, hyperstimulation, or a tumor, all of which can be life-threatening.

Endometrium

Endometrium tissue, which lines the uterus, is what causes this sort of cyst to form. Endometriosis patients frequently experience this symptom. Endometriosis is a disorder in which endometrial tissue implants in the pelvis in various locations. The tissue ordinarily swells and sheds blood once a month to generate our menstrual cycle, but in the case of an endometrioma cyst, it swells but has nowhere to go. This cyst can be quite uncomfortable, causing sex-related discomfort, unpleasant periods, and copious bleeding. It can permanently harm the ovaries and possibly turn malignant if left untreated.

Symptoms of an Enlarged Ovary

The symptoms of an enlarged ovary can vary depending on the underlying reason, as some cases have attritional signs that aren’t present in other types of ovary enlargement. An enlarged ovary can cause the following symptoms:

• Pain in the abdomen, pelvis, or lower back
• Urinary retention which causes difficulty urinating (Dysuria)
• During menstruation, there is a lot of bleeding (Menorrhagia)
• Missed menstrual periods on occasion
• Sexual encounters that are painful (Dyspareunia)
• Vaginal bleeding that is out of the ordinary
• Thigh discomfort is a common symptom of body pains.
• Breast discomfort
• Indigestion and constipation
• Appetite loss
• Nausea, whether or not it is accompanied by vomiting
• Unintentional weight gain
• Constipation
• Indigestion
• Urgency to urinate

Treatment Options for Enlarged Ovaries

The underlying reason for an enlarged ovary will often determine the treatment. This will necessitate the engagement of a competent medical professional to conduct numerous tests and procedures in order to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. Ovarian cancer is frequently treated with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. Radiation can also be utilized after surgery to get rid of any cancer cells that are still present. To help women with PCOS overcome their hormone imbalance, medications such as birth control pills, hormone treatments, and metformin are widely used. Other types of benign cysts usually cure on their own without the need for treatment, however anti-nausea medications and over-the-counter pain relievers may be helpful.
There are also several home remedies that can be used to cure an enlarged ovary.

Home Remedies for an Enlarged Ovary

• Drink enough water: It aids in the elimination of toxins and excess hormones that may contribute to ovaries that are swollen.
• Eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables while avoiding processed foods and trans fats.
• Exercise on a regular basis: Yoga and aerobic workouts are beneficial to the body’s endocranial system.
• Drugs with a homeopathic base: This includes using Sepia and Pulsatilla, which are both regarded as effective treatments for enlarged ovaries. However, before beginning any form of homeopathic treatment, you should consult your doctor.

Because cysts are a common cause of ovarian enlargement, you might not need to take any action. Many cysts disappear on their own within three months, resulting in a return to normal ovary size, but always check with your doctor first.

If your symptoms are unusual or uncomfortable, and they appear unexpectedly, you should consult your physician. They might want to do some tests to discover whether you have a more serious problem. Keep a record of the following symptoms:

• Pain in the abdomen
• Feeling of being stuffed
• Heavy bleeding
• Sex that hurts
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Missed period

Now that you Know…

Enlarged ovaries can occur for a variety of reasons that aren’t life-threatening and don’t necessitate medical attention right away. To rule out the risk of cancer or tumors, you should address any swelling or growth you detect with your doctor. Further medical difficulties such as long-term infertility may be a result of these. This is why it’s critical to discuss your concerns with a doctor as soon as possible.