Some ruptured ovarian cysts can cause a lot of bleeding. These need medical treatment right away. In severe cases, the blood loss can cause less blood flow to your organs. In rare cases, this can cause death.
Some women are never aware that they have an ovarian cyst, for others, it can cause pelvic pain and irregular bleeding that can appear brown when discharged along with regular vaginal fluids. If pelvic pain becomes severe and bleeding persists, consult with your doctor about treatment.
Besides intense pain, watch for infection and bleeding
For many women, a ruptured cyst can be excruciating. Some say it feels like an attack of appendicitis, especially since ovarian cysts are more common on your lower right side, near your appendix. However, the pain can be on either or both sides of your abdomen.
Sometimes when cysts rupture, internal tissue might bleed. If it's internal bleeding that doesn't stop, it can become a surgical emergency. Signs of dangerous internal bleeding include continued pain and pain that gets worse in the abdomen (blood in the abdomen hurts).
If you have any of the following symptoms of a ruptured cyst, head to the ER right away: Pain with vomiting and fever. Severe abdominal pain that comes on suddenly. Weakness, faintness, or dizziness.
Infection – the cyst fills with bacteria and pus, and becomes an abscess. If the abscess bursts inside the body, there is a risk of blood poisoning (septicaemia). Peritonitis – if an internal cyst bursts, there is a risk of peritonitis, which is inflammation of the membrane lining the abdominal wall.
Ovarian cysts can also lead to problems with the menstrual cycle, such as heavy or irregular periods, or spotting (abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods).
But ovarian cysts are actually extremely common and are rarely cancerous. Ovarian cysts usually don't need to be treated, but in some cases – such as when cysts become large, uncomfortable or break open and release blood and fluid, treatment is recommended.
Ovarian cysts
Cysts are fairly common, and in many cases, they cause no symptoms and go away on their own. But sometimes, cysts can cause heavy periods or bleeding between periods. Cysts tend to be more common during periods of hormonal changes, like during puberty or right before menopause.
One common sign of ovarian cancer is unusual vaginal bleeding, among other common, persisting, and nonspecific symptoms. People with recurring symptoms or who are at high risk for developing ovarian cancer should speak with their doctors promptly. Early detection can significantly improve outlook.
Sometimes a cyst will rupture, causing a sudden, sharp pain. A brownish vaginal discharge may occur.
Ovarian endometriomas contain chocolate-like fluid as the result of accumulation of menstruation-like hemorrhagic blood in the cyst.
The diagnosis of a ruptured ovarian cyst usually starts with an ultrasound. 7 If the cyst has ruptured, the ultrasound will show fluid around the ovary and may even reveal an empty, sac-like ulcer.
Medication Summary
Narcotic analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used for pain relief in patients with ovarian cysts.
Avoid vigorous activity. If you have a large cyst, the health care provider might ask you to avoid vigorous activity until the cyst grows smaller and goes away. Extreme activity might cause ovarian torsion. Birth control (BC) pills may be ordered to stop ovulation.
Cyst rupture.
A cyst that bursts open (ruptures) can cause severe pain and bleeding inside the pelvis. The larger the cyst, the greater the risk of rupture. Vigorous activity that affects the pelvis, such as vaginal sex, also increases the risk of rupture.
Can You Tell if a Cyst Is Cancerous From an Ultrasound? The results of an ultrasound imaging test alone can't tell your doctor for certain whether you have ovarian cancer. But it can help them figure out if you might have it and guide their next steps.
Hemorrhagic ovarian cyst (HOC) rupture can release blood and fluid into the surrounding abdomen and pelvis, presenting several risks to the patient including hemoperitoneum, less blood flow to vital organs, and sepsis.
Ovarian cysts can lead to unexpected vaginal spotting or bleeding between periods. If you have irregular bleeding, a cyst could be the cause.
Your OB/GYN may recommend either the minimally invasive approach (laparoscopic cystectomy) or traditional open surgery to remove the cyst and control the bleeding.
Some reasons you may be bleeding could include infection, an underlying medical condition, medication or hormonal imbalance. It's best to keep a record of your symptoms and contact a healthcare provider for an exam and any necessary tests.
2. Spotting or light vaginal bleeding. Sometimes ruptured ovarian cysts can trigger spotting or light vaginal bleeding at times when you don't expect it.
Your pain should go away in a few days. Let your provider know right away if you your pain gets worse, if you feel dizzy, or have new symptoms. Follow up with your provider if you need imaging or blood tests. If you have a complex ruptured ovarian cyst, you may need to stay in the hospital for 1 or more days.
This pain may be dull or sharp, and it may come and go. A cyst that breaks open (ruptures) may lead to sudden, sharp pain. Other symptoms of an ovarian cyst can include: Pain in the lower back or thighs.