Mesovarium thickening is a relatively uncommon term you might come across when investigating female pelvic and reproductive health. The mesovarium is part of the broad ligament of the uterus, and it supports the ovaries. When this structure becomes thickened, it may indicate underlying inflammation, hormonal imbalances, or other gynecological issues.
The mesovarium is a fold of peritoneum (a thin layer of tissue that lines the abdominal and pelvic cavities) which attaches to the ovary, helping to support it in the pelvic cavity. It is part of a larger structure called the broad ligament:
- Broad ligament: A wide, double-layered fold of peritoneum that connects the sides of the uterus to the walls of the pelvis.
- Mesovarium: The specific portion of the broad ligament that extends to the ovary.
Because the mesovarium houses blood vessels and nerves that supply the ovary, it is an essential structure for ovarian health and function.
What Does Mesovarium Thickening Mean?
Mesovarium thickening generally refers to an abnormal increase in the density or width of the tissues forming the mesovarium. This thickening might be seen on imaging tests such as ultrasounds or MRI scans. While it can sometimes be benign and cause no symptoms, it may also be a sign of underlying conditions such as:
- Inflammatory processes (e.g., pelvic inflammatory disease).
- Endometriosis (endometrial cells growing where they shouldn’t).
- Hormonal imbalances (potential fluid retention or changes in tissue).
- Cysts or growths that form in or around the ovary and ligaments.
The exact cause and significance of mesovarium thickening can vary widely from woman to woman. A proper medical evaluation is usually necessary to determine whether treatment is needed.
Anatomy and Pathophysiology of the Mesovarium
Structure
- The mesovarium is a short and almost horizontal section of the broad ligament.
- It connects the hilum of the ovary (the part where blood vessels and nerves enter) to the back of the broad ligament.
- It consists of connective tissue and is covered by the peritoneum.
Blood Supply
- Ovarian artery: Branches off the abdominal aorta and travels through the suspensory ligament of the ovary to reach the ovary and mesovarium.
- Uterine artery: Gives off branches that can supply parts of the broad ligament and the region near the ovary.
- The mesovarium itself contains small branches that supply blood to the ovary and surrounding ligaments.
Nerve Supply
- The ovarian plexus (arising from the abdominal aortic plexus) supplies sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers to the ovary and mesovarium.
- Sensory fibers follow similar pathways, which is why ovarian or ligament pain can sometimes radiate to the lower abdomen or back.
Functions
- Support of the ovary: Helps maintain the ovary in its correct position within the pelvic cavity.
- Protection of blood vessels and nerves: Offers a channel for blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves to reach the ovary.
- Helps maintain healthy ovarian function: By ensuring the ovary receives proper blood flow and innervation.
When the mesovarium thickens due to inflammation, scarring, or other factors, these normal functions can be disrupted. This may lead to pain, hormonal issues, or other gynecological problems.
Types of Mesovarium Thickening
While there is no universally accepted set of “types” for mesovarium thickening, it can generally be categorized based on its cause or nature:
- Inflammatory thickening: Caused by infections or inflammatory conditions (e.g., pelvic inflammatory disease).
- Fibrotic or scar-related thickening: Often the result of endometriosis or post-surgical scarring.
- Hormonal or vascular thickening: Related to hormonal changes or vascular congestion.
- Neoplastic thickening: Associated with cysts, benign tumors, or rarely malignant growths.
Your healthcare provider may describe mesovarium thickening based on imaging findings or biopsy results if needed.
Possible Causes of Mesovarium Thickening
Mesovarium thickening can result from many different health conditions or lifestyle factors. Below are 20 possible causes:
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
- Endometriosis
- Benign ovarian cysts (e.g., follicular or corpus luteum cysts)
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Fibroids (though primarily uterine, they can sometimes affect nearby ligaments)
- Adhesions or scarring post-surgery
- Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Pelvic congestion syndrome
- Ovarian tumors (benign or malignant)
- Ectopic pregnancy (rarely affecting the mesovarium region)
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g., estrogen dominance)
- Chronic pelvic pain syndrome
- Infections (e.g., tuberculosis, though rare in the pelvis)
- Secondary infections from adjacent organs (e.g., appendicitis spread)
- Trauma to the pelvis (e.g., accidents causing internal injuries)
- Pelvic or abdominal surgeries (e.g., C-section complications)
- Congenital anomalies (rare structural differences)
- Vascular disorders (e.g., varicose veins in the pelvic area)
- Metastatic disease (cancers from other parts of the body)
- Idiopathic causes (unknown or unidentifiable reasons)
Common Symptoms
Not everyone experiences noticeable symptoms, and in some cases, mesovarium thickening is found incidentally on imaging. However, possible symptoms or indicators include:
- Pelvic pain (dull or sharp)
- Lower abdominal discomfort
- Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Heavy or prolonged menstruation
- Spotting between periods
- Bloating or feeling of fullness
- Pain during ovulation
- Lower back pain
- Fever (if infection is present)
- Fatigue
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Urinary frequency (if the thickening presses on the bladder)
- Constipation or bowel movement changes (if the thickening irritates the bowels)
- Pain while standing for long periods (pelvic congestion)
- Pulsating or throbbing pain (in vascular causes)
- Reduced fertility or difficulty conceiving
- Pain worsening before or during menstrual periods
- Generalized pelvic pressure
- No symptoms at all (asymptomatic)
Diagnostic Tests
If your doctor suspects mesovarium thickening, they may order several tests to confirm the diagnosis and find the underlying cause. Here are 20 possible diagnostic methods:
- Pelvic ultrasound (transabdominal or transvaginal)
- MRI scan of the pelvis
- CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis
- Pelvic exam and patient history assessment
- Complete blood count (CBC) to check for infection or anemia
- Inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP)
- Urinalysis to rule out urinary infections
- Hormone level tests (estrogen, progesterone, LH, FSH)
- Pregnancy test (to exclude ectopic pregnancy)
- STD screening (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea)
- CA-125 blood test (may be done in cases of suspected endometriosis or ovarian cancer)
- Pelvic Doppler ultrasound (to check blood flow)
- Laparoscopy (minimally invasive surgical procedure for direct visualization)
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG) (to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes)
- Biopsy (if a suspicious mass is found)
- Endometrial sampling (if uterine pathology is suspected)
- Pap smear (cervical screening)
- Pelvic MRI with contrast (for detailed vascular imaging)
- Transrectal ultrasound (less common, used in specialized cases)
- Allergy or autoimmune panels (if an autoimmune cause is suspected)
Your healthcare provider will decide which tests are most appropriate based on your symptoms and medical history.
Non-Pharmacological Treatments
Non-pharmacological treatments focus on lifestyle changes, physical therapies, and supportive measures. They often help reduce discomfort and improve overall pelvic health. Here are 30 options:
- Warm compresses: Applying heat to the lower abdomen to ease pain.
- Gentle exercise: Yoga, swimming, or walking to improve blood flow.
- Pelvic floor exercises: Kegel exercises can strengthen pelvic muscles.
- Physical therapy: A trained pelvic physiotherapist can help with pain relief.
- Acupuncture: May help reduce pain and inflammation in some individuals.
- Massage therapy: Targeted massage to ease pelvic tension.
- Stress management techniques: Meditation, deep breathing to lower stress hormones.
- Adequate hydration: Drinking enough water helps circulation.
- Diet modifications: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- High-fiber foods: Helps reduce constipation and pelvic pressure.
- Avoiding trigger foods: Such as excessive caffeine, sugary foods, or alcohol.
- Maintaining healthy weight: Excess weight can add to pelvic pressure.
- Warm baths or sitz baths: For soothing pelvic discomfort.
- Proper posture: Standing and sitting up straight reduces strain on pelvic organs.
- Gentle stretching routines: Eases stiffness around the pelvis.
- Stress reduction: Activities like journaling or guided imagery.
- Mindfulness-based pain management: Focused relaxation to cope with chronic pain.
- Biofeedback therapy: Helps you control certain body functions to relieve pain.
- Chiropractic care (in some cases): May help with musculoskeletal alignment.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking can affect blood circulation and overall health.
- Avoid heavy lifting: Reduces strain on the abdominal and pelvic muscles.
- Use of supportive garments: Sometimes recommended if pelvic congestion is a concern.
- Heat therapy devices: Electric heating pads for regular use.
- Cold packs: Some people find alternating heat and cold soothing.
- Healthy sleep routine: Adequate rest is crucial for tissue repair and hormonal balance.
- Limit prolonged standing or sitting: Change positions frequently to improve circulation.
- Pelvic support devices (pessary, though more for uterine prolapse, can sometimes help).
- Regular check-ups: Catch and manage issues early.
- Support groups or counseling: Emotional support can reduce stress-related pain.
- Relaxation apps or tools: Guided relaxation can lower perceived pain levels.
Pharmacological Treatments (Medications)
Always consult your doctor before starting any medication. Below are 20 types of drugs that might be used depending on the cause of mesovarium thickening:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen
- Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) – for mild pain relief
- Oral contraceptive pills – regulate hormones and reduce endometriosis-related pain
- GnRH agonists – suppress ovarian hormone production in severe endometriosis
- Antibiotics – for pelvic inflammatory disease or bacterial infections
- Antifungal medications – if a fungal infection is identified
- Antiviral medications – for certain viral infections (rare but possible)
- Hormonal IUD – can help stabilize the lining and reduce pain
- Progestins – used in managing endometriosis or hormonal imbalances
- Selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) – e.g., ulipristal for fibroids
- Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) – can be used in certain reproductive conditions
- Corticosteroids – for autoimmune or severe inflammatory conditions
- Pain modulators (e.g., gabapentin) – for chronic pelvic pain
- Muscle relaxants – if muscle spasms contribute to pain
- Antispasmodics – help relieve smooth muscle tension in the pelvis
- Opioid analgesics – typically reserved for severe pain under strict medical guidance
- Diuretics – sometimes used if fluid retention is contributing to swelling
- Vitamins and supplements (e.g., vitamin D, calcium) – supportive therapy, not a direct treatment
- Iron supplements – if anemia is present due to heavy menstrual bleeding
- Immunosuppressants – in rare cases of severe autoimmune involvement
The exact choice of medication depends heavily on the underlying cause of the thickening.
Surgical Options
Surgery may be considered if conservative treatments fail or if there is a suspicion of a tumor or severe structural problem. Possible 10 surgical procedures include:
- Laparoscopic evaluation: Diagnostic and sometimes therapeutic (removal of adhesions).
- Laparotomy: An open surgical approach for extensive investigation or treatment.
- Ovarian cystectomy: Removal of ovarian cysts.
- Excision of endometriosis implants: If endometriosis is causing thickening.
- Adhesiolysis: Removal of adhesions (scar tissue).
- Salpingo-oophorectomy: Removal of the ovary and fallopian tube (if cancer or severe damage is present).
- Myomectomy: Removal of fibroids if they are impacting the broad ligament area.
- Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus (only in severe or advanced cases, depending on cause).
- Pelvic reconstruction: Rarely needed, but done if the normal pelvic structure is compromised.
- Drainage procedures: If there is an abscess or fluid collection causing thickening.
Surgical decisions should be made after thorough diagnosis and discussion with a qualified gynecologist or surgeon.
Prevention Tips
While not all cases of mesovarium thickening can be prevented, certain lifestyle choices and healthy habits can reduce your risk of pelvic problems:
- Practice safe sex: Use protection to reduce the risk of infections.
- Regular pelvic exams: Early detection of any reproductive health issues.
- Timely treatment of infections: Promptly address urinary or vaginal infections to prevent spread.
- Healthy diet: Emphasize fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Stay active: Regular exercise improves circulation and reduces pelvic congestion.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight can increase strain on the pelvis.
- Stress management: Chronic stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking can harm blood vessels and overall health.
- Limit alcohol: Excessive intake can affect hormone levels and liver function.
- Stay hydrated: Good hydration supports healthy tissue function.
When to See a Doctor
You should consider seeking medical attention if you experience:
- Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain that does not improve with over-the-counter treatments.
- Severe or sharp pain that comes on suddenly.
- Irregular menstrual bleeding or bleeding after menopause.
- Painful intercourse or new onset of pain during intercourse.
- Fever accompanied by pelvic pain (could indicate infection).
- Unexplained weight loss or chronic fatigue.
- Difficulty conceiving (if trying to get pregnant).
Early evaluation can help identify the cause of mesovarium thickening and prevent complications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is mesovarium thickening common?
Not particularly. It is more often an incidental finding on imaging. However, many underlying pelvic conditions can lead to this change.Can mesovarium thickening go away on its own?
It depends on the cause. Some mild forms of inflammation or thickening due to hormonal changes may resolve spontaneously, while others need medical or surgical treatment.Is mesovarium thickening always linked to cancer?
No. Cancer is one of many possible causes, but it is relatively rare compared to benign conditions like endometriosis or simple adhesions.How is mesovarium thickening different from ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs in or on the ovary. Mesovarium thickening is a thickening of the ligament that supports the ovary, not the ovary itself.Will I need surgery if I have mesovarium thickening?
Not necessarily. Surgery is usually a last resort if there is a significant issue such as a large cyst, severe pain, or suspicion of a tumor.Can I still get pregnant with mesovarium thickening?
Many women with mild thickening or related conditions conceive without major problems. Fertility may be affected if the thickening is linked to issues like endometriosis or infections.Is mesovarium thickening painful?
It can be, especially if it’s due to inflammation or endometriosis. However, some people have no symptoms.How long does it take to diagnose mesovarium thickening?
Diagnosis can vary. A simple pelvic ultrasound might show ligament thickening quickly, but further tests may be needed to identify the exact cause.Does exercise help reduce mesovarium thickening?
Exercise can improve overall pelvic circulation and help manage symptoms like pain and bloating. However, it does not directly “shrink” thickened tissue.Are there natural remedies for mesovarium thickening?
Lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management) and alternative therapies (acupuncture, herbal supplements) can help alleviate symptoms, but always discuss with a healthcare provider.Can mesovarium thickening lead to chronic pelvic pain?
Yes, especially if it is caused by endometriosis, adhesions, or ongoing inflammation.Should I be worried if my ultrasound shows mesovarium thickening?
Do not panic. Discuss the findings with your doctor to understand the potential cause and whether further tests are needed.Does birth control help reduce mesovarium thickening?
Hormonal contraception can help manage some causes like endometriosis or hormonal imbalances, which might indirectly reduce the thickness over time.Can I travel or exercise during treatment?
In most cases, yes. Your doctor will advise you if you need any activity restrictions based on the severity of your condition.How often should I get checked if I have mesovarium thickening?
Your doctor may suggest follow-up imaging or exams every 3–6 months or annually, depending on the underlying cause and severity.
Conclusion
Mesovarium thickening is a condition that can stem from various gynecological or systemic issues. While it may sound intimidating, it is not always serious. Some women discover mesovarium thickening during routine pelvic imaging without experiencing any symptoms. For others, it can be a source of discomfort or an indicator of a more significant underlying problem, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
