Ovarian cystsdon’t always cause symptoms and are usually not dangerous.
But when an ovarian cyst ruptures, the pain is similar to that ofacute appendicitis.
Your right ovary and your appendix are close neighbors in the abdomen.
Anupong Thongchan / EyeEm/ Getty Images
That makes it hard to pinpoint the problem based on pain alone.
This article discusses the similarities and differences between ovarian cysts and appendicitis.
Anupong Thongchan / EyeEm/ Getty Images
Location of Ovaries vs.
Appendix
The rightovaryand theappendixare in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen.
Yourovariesare about the size and shape of an almond.
They rest on each side of theuterus, right below the opening of thefallopian tubes.
Not far away lies your appendix.
And acute appendicitis is the most common cause of non-gynecologic pelvic pain.
A lot is going on in your abdomen, which makes a diagnosis quite challenging.
Right-sided abdominal pain could signal a rupturedovarian cystorappendicitis.
In addition to the lower abdomen, you might also have pain in your lower back.
Other symptoms may include vaginal spotting or bleeding and feeling dizzy or faint.
Pain from appendicitis will likely start near the belly button, then move to your lower right side.
In some people, it begins in the lower abdomen.
The pain worsens when you breathe deeply, touch it, cough, or sneeze.
Ovarian Cysts and Fertility
Ovarian cysts don’t usually affect your ability to get pregnant.
If your appendix didn’t burst, recovery should take a few days.
Recovery from a burst appendix will take a little longer.
You’ll also need to take antibiotics.
Antibiotics vs.
Surgery
Sometimes, your provider will recommend treatment with antibiotics instead of surgery.
Research suggests that 40% of those treated conservatively will need surgery within five years.
Surgery isn’t always necessary.
Your healthcare provider may recommend pain medications and watchful waiting.
The surgeon will remove excess fluids and blood clots.
Once bleeding is under control, they can remove the cyst or the entire ovary.
Summary
Most ovarian cysts are harmless and may not cause symptoms.
A ruptured ovarian cyst can cause sudden, severe pain.
There are also many other reasons you might have abdominal pain.
If you have unexplained abdominal pain, consult with a healthcare provider.
Ruptured ovarian cysts and appendicitis require immediate medical attention.
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office on Women’s Health.Ovarian cysts.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.What risks are associated with a ruptured ovarian cyst?
Johns Hopkins Medicine.What is appendicitis?
