Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in or on the surface of a woman’s ovaries. The majority of women will have at least one cyst in their lifetime. Most of these cysts happen before menopause, but about 15 percent do occur after menopause. For the most part, ovarian cysts are not part of a disease process; however, there can be cases that are referred to as “pathological cysts.” These are cysts that can either be cancerous or benign.
In situations where the cyst causes abdominal bloating, painful bowel movements, irregular menstruation, or pain during sex, relief should be sought. Home remedies for ovarian cyst pain can help women through this uncomfortable time and, in some cases, even shrink the cyst.
Ovarian cyst symptoms and causes
Before we look at specific home remedies for ovarian cysts, let’s look at why you might have a cyst in the first place. There are several different reasons that an ovarian cyst may form:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Early menstruation
- Irregular periods
- Hypothyroidism
- Smoking
- Body mass index over 30
- Certain medications, including Tamoxifen and Clomiphene
If you have never had a cyst, you might be wondering what it feels like. Well, for many women, there are no symptoms and the cyst just goes away. You will only know if you have a cyst if one is discovered during a physical exam, or if you start to develop symptoms like swelling, bloating, vomiting and nausea, pelvic pain, pain during urination, pain during bowel movements, or when you experience fertility problems.
How to get rid of ovarian cysts?
When we think about how to get rid of ovarian cysts, it is really all about a balance of equalizing hormones and trying to avoid factors that can lead to the formation of cysts. Here we take a look at the many options women can consider if they want to know how to shrink ovarian cysts naturally and how to relieve ovarian cyst pain.
If one of these home remedies doesn’t work, try another one. Also, keep in mind that if symptoms progress to a severe stage, you really should consult with a qualified health care provider.
Here are some ovarian cyst home remedies to try:
- Balancing hormones—abnormally high estrogen could mean you are progesterone deficient, so you may want to take progesterone supplements. These have been known to trick a woman’s body into thinking that it’s pregnant so that ovulation occurs.
- Diet adjustments—a diet high in meat and cheese increases the risk of ovarian cysts, so include more fruits and vegetables instead. Veggies and fruit have been linked to the shrinking of cysts. Avoiding processed foods is also a good idea because they can block proper digestion.
- Herbs—some herbs can help prevent ovarian cysts from forming. Herbal supplements like black cohosh root, maca root, castor oil, milk thistle seed, wild yam root, and yarrow are said to help maintain hormone balance.
- Active lifestyle—exercise plays a part in healing, and research suggests yoga, as well as other forms of stretching, is good for cysts. Walking can also help ease the pain that comes with ovarian cyst cramps.
- Weight management—excess fat can lead to the overproduction of estrogen, which increases the risk of ovarian cysts.
- Estrogen reduction—when too much estrogen is being produced in the body, you become over-exposed to “xenohormones,” a substance that can be toxic and cause hormone imbalance. Reducing both soy and processed food intake can help get this under control. When trying to reduce this substance, it is important not to consume meat that is injected with hormones.
- Heat—this can help minimize pain and cramps. Most people lay down with a hot water bottle on their abdomen for at least 20 minutes, but a heating pad will also work.
- Castor oil—the oil works by removing excess tissues and toxins from the body. This is considered one of the best home remedies for ovarian cysts removal. Studies show that oil helps dissolve the cysts.
- Epsom salt—soaking in an Epsom salt bath can relieve the pain associated with ovarian cysts. Mix at least one cup of Epsom salt in a warm water bath.
- Chamomile tea—this tea has a relaxing component to it, which can help relieve cyst pain. It has also been linked to regulating menstrual cycles. Drinking two or three cups per day is recommended.
- Vinegar—apple cider vinegar is high in potassium and can help women who have the cysts due to potassium deficiency. Some people have found great success with a teaspoon of vinegar, a teaspoon of blackstrap molasses, and a glass of water when it comes to shrinking their cysts. It is the same drink people use to reduce cramping during their period.
- Beetroot—due to its alkaline properties, this herb can balance acidity in the body and reduce the symptoms of ovarian cysts.
- Ginger Juice—this is known as a strong anti-inflammatory herb that relieves pain. It can also create a heating effect inside the body, promoting menstruation.
- Flaxseed—this can balance the amount of estrogen in the body and flush harmful toxins out of your system.
- Almond—considered a healthy food, almond is known to help reduce painful cramps. You can eat them or rub almond oil on your abdomen.
- Dong Quai root—the root is used for fertility and the promotion of circulation to reproductive organs. It is thought to be a good option for reducing pain associated with these organs.
- Maca root—this root can balance hormone levels, produce progesterone, and nourish the endocrine system. A regular consumption of about 3000mg is recommended for treatment of ovarian cysts.
- Supplements—along with herbs and adjustments to diet, vitamins can help prevent or shrink ovarian cysts. One supplement that has been linked to balancing hormones is diindolylmethane. It helps get rid of extra estrogen in the body.
- Fluids—raise fluid consumption since it is good for getting rid of toxins and producing an atmosphere for healing. Water is the best option.
It is common for women to want ovarian cyst treatment without surgery, so it is nice to know that there are a lot of different possible home remedies to try out. If you are experiencing pain and discomfort as a result of an ovarian cyst, it might be worth trying out some of the above suggestions. Keep in mind that many of these home remedies not only help with ovarian cysts, but are also good for your overall well-being.
Related: PCOS signs and symptoms, polycystic ovary syndrome symptoms checklist