5 common diseases of the ovaries

The ovaries are two small, solid glands in the female reproductive system, about the size and shape of walnuts, located on either side of the uterus. The ovaries are held in place and supported by ligaments attached to the uterus, fallopian tubes, and side walls of the pelvis.

The ovary consists of an outer layer containing follicles, small fluid-filled sacs where eggs develop. The inner medulla is made up of loose connective tissue and contains blood vessels, lymph vessels, and nerve fibers.

The main function of the ovaries is to develop and release mature eggs, and to produce sex hormones for menstruation, pregnancy, reproductive function, and support of other tissues. The following common diseases of the ovaries can affect a woman’s fertility.

Ovarian torsion

Rarely, the ovary may twist around the ligament. This condition is called ovarian torsion, and it can cause severe pain. Ovarian torsion is a medical emergency because it can cut off the blood supply to the ovary and fallopian tube.

Initial symptoms include severe pelvic pain, usually on one side, accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Immediate surgery is usually performed to restore blood supply and save the ovary.

Endometrial cancer

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that resemble blisters that form on the ovaries. Ovarian cysts are common during the reproductive years, forming during ovulation or pregnancy. In some cases, they can be the result of hormone therapy, including fertility treatments. Other causes include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or pelvic infections. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and go away on their own without treatment.

Polycystic ovary syndrome

This is the most common hormonal disorder in women and is a common cause of infertility. Higher than normal levels of androgens cause ovulation disorders, causing irregular ovulation, menstrual cycle disorders, and difficulty conceiving.

Many cases of PCOS go undiagnosed because the symptoms vary from person to person. Women with PCOS often have irregular or absent periods, sudden weight gain, oily, dark facial skin, acne, and pelvic pain and discomfort. Increased levels of male hormones in the body also cause excess hair on the face, back, abdomen, and chest.

There is no cure for PCOS, but there are ways to control symptoms and complications. Your doctor may prescribe hormonal medications to regulate your menstrual cycle or suggest fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer often does not cause symptoms until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. In the United States, ovarian cancer ranks fifth in cancer deaths among women, making it the deadliest gynecological cancer. Removal of the ovaries may be recommended to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, especially in women at high risk.

Fallopian tube damage

The fallopian tubes can be affected by diseases, infections, or other conditions, leading to scarring or damage, increasing the risk of ectopic pregnancy or preventing the egg and sperm from meeting to create an embryo, causing infertility.

Some causes of fallopian tube damage are pelvic inflammatory disease and endometriosis, sexually transmitted infections, and other pelvic infections.

To reduce the risk of ovarian diseases, women should eat scientifically, supplement with a variety of vegetables and fruits, avoid fast food, processed food, and foods high in fat, drink enough water, and exercise regularly according to their physical condition.

Keep the private area clean to avoid infection. Have healthy sex, limit unwanted pregnancies leading to abortion. Have regular gynecological check-ups to detect diseases early, treat promptly, and prevent the risk of infertility.