Ovarian cysts are like small sacs filled with fluid that can grow on a woman’s ovaries, typically during her baby-making years. Most of the time, these cysts are harmless and don’t show any symptoms. But sometimes they can cause problems like having blood in urine, which is called hematuria.
Understanding the correlation between ovarian cysts and urinary symptoms is crucial for early detection and effective management of potential health concerns.
This blog post provides detailed info on the topic: ‘Can Ovarian Cysts Cause Blood in Urine?’ We’ll cover symptoms of ovarian cysts, reasons for blood in urine, and treatment options available for those dealing with this condition. At the end, we also share some tips on how you can prevent ovarian cysts. So, let’s dive in.
An ovarian cyst is typically a fluid-filled sac that develops on or within one or both ovaries. They’re common, especially if you’re pregnant or before menopause.
There are some cysts that can be linked with fertility issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and others may be linked to hormonal fluctuations or changes.
Most of the time they don’t hurt or cause issues. You might have one every month during your period and not even realize it.
However, in some cases it can be problematic if they they can grow larger, burst, or cause the ovary to twist, potentially leading to serious problems. While rare, there is a possibility that an ovarian cyst is cancerous.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
Here are the most common types of ovarian cysts:
- Functional Cysts: These cysts are harmless and occur as a result of normal menstrual cycle changes. They often go away on their own within a few months.
- Dermoid Cysts: These cysts contain tissue like hair, skin or teeth because they grow from cells that produce human eggs. Most of these cysts are benign.
- Cystadenomas: These cysts develop from cells on the surface of your ovary. They can be filled with either fluid or mucus and may grow to be as large as 12 inches in diameter.
Now, let’s discuss how an ovarian cyst can cause blood in urine and what other symptoms to look out for.
A Brief Overview of Blood in Urine
Finding blood in urine, or hematuria, can be concerning. While it’s not usually linked to ovarian cysts, there are situations where a cyst might cause this symptom.
There are 2 types of hematuria: gross hematuria, which is visible to the naked eye, and microscopic hematuria, which is detectable only through a urine test.
Ovarian cysts usually don’t directly cause blood in urine, but if there are complications like a ruptured cyst or infection, it could lead to blood in the urine.
The presence of blood in urine could also be indicative of other medical conditions unrelated to ovarian cysts, which include urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or more serious conditions such as kidney disease or bladder cancer.
If you experience visible blood in your urine or have been diagnosed with microscopic hematuria, it is essential to follow up with your doctor for further investigation and appropriate treatment.
Can ovarian cysts cause blood in urine?
No ovarian cysts do not directly cause blood in urine. However, if a cyst grows too large it may exert pressure on the bladder or urinary tract, which could cause irritation or minor bleeding.
Another issue is if a hemorrhagic ovarian cyst bursts, it can release blood and fluid into the abdomen and pelvis, which can be harmful [1].
This can lead to blood seeping into the urinary tract, showing as blood in urine. It might result in reduced blood flow to important organs, infection, or severe bleeding. This might need special surgery to stop the bleeding or take out the cyst.
In addition to these physical complications, ovarian cysts that result in infection or inflammation can affect the urinary system too. Infections can spread and cause conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are a more common cause of hematuria.
When you see blood in your urine from ovarian cysts, it’s rare. Doctors will check for other common issues. They might do a physical exam, urine tests, and scans. Sometimes, they look inside your bladder and urinary tract with a small camera. Talk to your doctor for the right diagnosis and treatment plan.
Also Read: Clitoral Pain And Interstitial Cystitis: What’s The Connection?
What Kind of Bleeding is Caused by Ovarian Cysts?
Usually, the bleeding caused by ovarian cysts is internal. If a cyst breaks, it can create a hemorrhagic cyst. That’s when the cyst bleeds into itself, and sometimes blood can spill into the area around your pelvis.
This internal bleeding may not always manifest as blood in the urine. Instead, it can present symptoms like pelvic pain, fullness, or heaviness in the abdomen, or even referred pain in the lower back.
When big cysts bother nearby organs, there’s a slim chance they might cause bleeding that goes into the urinary system, leading to blood in the urine (hematuria).
If a bleeding cyst gets so big it bursts the ovary tissue, it can cause serious internal bleeding and needs quick medical help. This is a medical emergency needing immediate check-ups and maybe surgery.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts: Recognizing the Signs
While ovarian cysts often remain symptomless and are discovered incidentally, certain signs should not be ignored, as they can indicate the presence of larger or ruptured cysts requiring immediate medical attention. The symptoms of ovarian cysts may include:
Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Common symptoms of ovarian cysts include:
- Bloating
- An increase in urination
- Pain during menstruation or a change in the menstrual cycle
- Weight gain
- Constipation or frequent bowel movements
- Nausea and vomiting
Symptoms of Ruptured Ovarian Cysts
Signs of a ruptured ovarian cyst may include:
- Sudden severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Dizziness, fainting, or weakness
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pelvic pain shortly before your period begins and just after it ends
Specific Symptoms Related to Blood in Urine
Specific symptoms related to blood in urine caused by ovarian cysts may include:
- A pink or red color to the urine
- Blood clots in the urine
- Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or back
- The frequent urge to urinate, akin to urinary tract infection symptoms
- Painful urination
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of Blood in Urine
Aside from ovarian cyst-related complications, having blood in urine can rise due to different health problems. Some reasons are not so serious, while others might need quick medical attention. The main causes include:
1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Bacteria entering the urinary tract can cause infection, affecting the bladder, urethra, or kidneys, often resulting in hematuria.
2. Kidney Stones: Hard deposits made of minerals and salts can form inside your kidneys, potentially causing bleeding when they move or are passed out of the body.
3. Glomerulonephritis: This condition refers to the inflammation of the glomeruli, tiny structures within the kidneys that perform blood filtration, which can cause blood to appear in the urine.
4. Kidney Injury: A trauma to the kidneys from an accident or sports injury can cause visible blood in the urine.
5. Medications: Certain drugs, including blood thinners, anti-cancer drugs, and some antibiotics, can cause urinary bleeding as a side effect.
6. Enlarged Prostate: In men, an enlarged prostate gland can cause urinary bleeding by hindering urine flow and irritating the bladder.
Cancer: More serious but less common causes include cancers of the bladder, kidney, or prostate. These can sometimes present with hematuria, especially in the absence of pain or other typical infection symptoms.
Treatment options: Addressing ovarian cysts and blood in urine
Treatment for ovarian cysts and associated symptoms like blood in urine depends on the cyst’s size, type, and the severity of the symptoms. Common treatments include:
Observation
For small, symptom-free ovarian cysts, a “watchful waiting” approach is often recommended. Regular follow-ups with ultrasound scans allow doctors to monitor the cyst’s size and appearance over time. This gentle approach works well for younger women before menopause. Ovarian cysts in them are often harmless and go away by themselves in two to three periods.
Managing Ovarian Cysts
For active cyst-related discomfort, pain management is usually the first step. OTC pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate mild pain.
Hormonal contraceptives may be prescribed to prevent new cysts from developing in those who have recurrent ovarian cysts and are not trying to become pregnant.
In cases where cysts are large, persistent, or causing severe symptoms, surgical interventions like laparoscopy or laparotomy may be necessary.
During a laparoscopy, a surgeon makes small incisions and uses a camera to guide the removal of the cyst. A laparotomy requires a larger incision and is usually reserved for larger cysts or when there’s a higher concern for ovarian cancer.
Treating Hematuria
If blood in the urine is linked with ovarian cysts, the primary treatment will focus on the underlying condition of the cysts themselves. However, if hematuria is present additional tests may be required to identify other potential causes. Treatment for hematuria will depend on the identified cause and may include:
1. Antibiotics: If a UTI is confirmed as the cause of hematuria, a course of antibiotics will be prescribed to clear the infection.
2. Medications: For cases involving an enlarged prostate or certain inflammatory conditions, doctors may prescribe medication to reduce inflammation or shrink an enlarged prostate, thus relieving symptoms.
3. Lithotripsy or Surgical Removal: If kidney stones are causing hematuria, treatments like shock wave lithotripsy or surgical removal may be necessary to break down or remove the stones.
4. Medical Assessment: Regular monitoring and medical assessments are crucial for conditions like glomerulonephritis, to manage symptoms and prevent further kidney damage.
5. Cancer Treatment: In cases where cancer is the cause, corresponding cancer treatments such as surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy will be undertaken.
For immediate symptom relief from pain or discomfort associated with hematuria, patients may be advised to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the urinary system. Over-the-counter painkillers may be recommended to manage any associated pain until a definitive treatment can be implemented.
Urinary Tract Infection Treatment
To treat UTIs, which can cause bloody urine, doctors usually recommend a mix of medicine and lifestyle changes. The main treatment is antibiotics that match the bacteria causing the infection, found through urine tests. It’s crucial to finish all the antibiotics, even if you feel better fast, to clear the infection completely.
Prevention tips: Maintaining good urinary health
Keeping your urinary system healthy is super important to avoid infections, kidney stones, and other issues that can cause blood in urine. Here are some simple tips to help you stay healthy:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water is very important which helps to dilute your urine and ensure that you’re urinating frequently.
- Practice Good Hygiene: For women, wiping from front to back can help prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.
- Urinate After Intercourse: Both men and women should urinate shortly after sexual activity to help flush away bacteria.
- Avoid Irritants: Reduce consumption of foods and drinks that can irritate your bladder, such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for bladder and kidney cancers; quitting can reduce these risks.
- Check Medications: Regularly review any medications with your doctor, as some drugs can increase your risk of urinary bleeding.
- Regular Check-ups: Routine health screenings, including urine tests, can help detect problems early before they become more serious.
Making these lifestyle changes can really help reduce your chances of having urinary problems. If you’re having ongoing issues, it’s best to talk to a doctor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the presence of blood in urine can be unsettling, understanding the various causes and available treatments is crucial. Ovarian cysts, UTIs, kidney stones, and other conditions each have specific management strategies.
Prioritizing your urinary health by making lifestyle changes and getting quick medical help for any issues can really lower the chances of problems. It’s important to keep informed and talk with your doctor to keep your urinary tract healthy and feel good overall.
FAQ
Can ovarian cancer cause blood in urine?
Yes, ovarian cancer can sometimes cause blood in urine, though it is less common than other causes. This symptom may occur if cancer spreads to the bladder or urinary tract, disrupting these areas’ normal function. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation if this or any other concerning symptoms arise.
Can ovarian cysts cause protein in urine?
Ovarian cysts usually don’t make protein show up in urine. But if a cyst gets big enough to impact the kidneys or is related to a kidney issue, protein might appear. However, kidney problems like glomerulonephritis or chronic kidney disease are more often the cause of protein in urine. If protein is found, a doctor will probably run more tests to figure out why.
Can a small ovarian cyst cause frequent urination?
A small ovarian cyst is usually asymptomatic and should not cause frequent urination. However, if a cyst begins to grow larger or causes irritation in the surrounding tissues, it could lead to an increased urge to urinate.
Does blood in urine indicate a ruptured ovarian cyst?
Yes, blood in the urine can sometimes be a sign of a ruptured ovarian cyst. When a cyst ruptures, its contents can potentially irritate the bladder or the tissues around it, potentially causing blood in the urine. However, hematuria could also be indicative of other health conditions, so it is essential to seek medical evaluation for an accurate diagnosis.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/women/ovarian-cysts
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539572/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325324
