Is Corpus Luteum Cyst a Good Sign?

What is corpus luteum?

A corpus luteum cyst may be a good sign that indicates pregnancy, however, it does not always indicate pregnancy. A corpus luteum cyst can cause discomfort or more serious complications.

Corpus luteum is the final stage in the life cycle of the ovarian follicle. After ovulation, the corpus luteum forms from the empty follicle that is left behind from the released egg. It is a temporary gland structure that releases estrogen and progesterone to prepare the body for conception. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum breaks down and triggers menstruation.

Occasionally, the burst corpus luteum will reseal and fill with fluid — forming an ovarian cyst. They are usually benign and painless and may resolve on their own. They can appear near menstruation or at any other point during the cycle, including early pregnancy. As such, while it may occur with pregnancy, it does not always indicate pregnancy.

However, a corpus luteum cyst can cause discomfort or more serious complications. Corpus luteum cysts become concerning when they cause severe or sudden pain and are accompanied by other symptoms.

In rare cases, a corpus luteum cyst can develop into a more serious condition. If the cyst grows to an unusually large size, the ovary may twist — causing a dangerous condition known as ovarian torsion. Oversized cysts also run the risk of rupturing, which causes internal bleeding. Both conditions onset suddenly and require medical intervention.

Signs and symptoms of corpus luteum cyst

While corpus luteum cysts are often painless and harmless, some women experience significant symptoms. Signs and symptoms of a corpus luteum cyst may include:

Pelvic pain

Some women experience moderate to severe pain as a symptom of a corpus luteum cyst. This pain ranges in quality from a dull ache to a sharp twinge of pain.

One of the most common symptoms of a cyst is pain during intercourse. Pain can be experienced as a dull ache, sharp pain, or soreness after sex.

Some women also experience aching in the form of low back pain, cramping in the legs, or tenderness of the breasts.

Bloating

Bloating, or the sensation of abdominal fullness and heaviness, can be a sign of a corpus luteum cyst. Bloating may come and go throughout a woman’s cycle.

Weight gain

Unusual weight gain may signal the formation of a corpus luteum cyst.

Painful and heavy menstruation

If you have a corpus luteum cyst, you may experience menstrual periods that include excessive bleeding, exceptionally painful cramping, and unusual bloating.

Bathroom complications

Corpus luteum cysts may be accompanied by urinary urgency, difficult bowel movements, or trouble with urinating or defecating.

Abnormal bleeding

Abnormal vaginal bleeding — ranging from spotting to a heavy flow — may indicate the presence of a corpus luteum cyst.

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Causes of corpus luteum cysts

There are several causes of corpus luteum cysts. They typically form from the burst follicle after ovulation. But there may be other underlying causes, such as:

Hormonal imbalance

You may have a higher chance of developing a corpus luteum cyst if you have a hormonal imbalance. This can be caused by ongoing fertility treatments or other underlying issues.

Pregnancy

Pregnant women sometimes retain the corpus luteum cyst from their last ovulation throughout their pregnancy. Often, the cyst will resolve on its own during pregnancy or afterward but should be monitored throughout.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition that causes the endometrial cells typically found in the uterus to grow beyond the uterine walls. The tissue sometimes attaches to your ovaries and forms a growth or cyst — making women with endometriosis more likely to develop corpus luteum cysts.

Pelvic infection

If a pelvic infection reaches the ovaries, it can lead to the formation of cysts.

Previous cysts

Women who have previously experienced corpus luteum cysts are likely to develop them multiple times.

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When to see the doctor for corpus luteum cysts

You should see your doctor if you experience any painful symptoms associated with corpus luteum cysts. You should seek emergency treatment if you experience any of the following:

• Sudden onset of sharp pain
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Loss of consciousness
• Fever

These symptoms may be a sign of a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Diagnosing corpus luteum cysts

Corpus luteum cysts can be observed during a pelvic exam. Depending on the quality of the cyst, your doctor may recommend tests to determine a treatment plan. Potential tests include:

• Pregnancy test
• Pelvic ultrasound
• Laparoscopic surgery

Treatments for corpus luteum cysts

Depending on the state of the corpus luteum cyst, your doctor may recommend:

• Follow-up appointments to monitor the progress of the cyst.
• Hormonal contraceptives for reducing the risk of forming ovarian cysts.
• Surgery to remove the cyst.