What are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside an ovary. They are very common, especially during the reproductive years, and most are harmless and go away on their own without treatment.
The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system and are responsible for releasing eggs each month as part of the menstrual cycle.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
Most cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and fall into two main categories:
Functional Cysts (most common)
These develop as part of the menstrual cycle:
- Follicular cysts – when a follicle doesn’t release an egg
- Corpus luteum cysts – after an egg is released, and the follicle seals and fills with fluid
These usually go away on their own in a few weeks.
Pathological Cysts
These grow from abnormal cell development:
- Dermoid cysts (teratomas) – may contain hair, skin or teeth
- Cystadenomas – filled with watery or mucous material
- Endometriomas – related to endometriosis, containing old blood
What are the symptoms?
Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms, especially if small. If symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms, especially if small. If symptoms do occur, they may include:
In rare cases, cysts can cause sudden, severe pain if they rupture or twist (ovarian torsion)—this is a medical emergency.
How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves:
- Pelvic examination
- Ultrasound scan (to assess the size, shape, and contents of the cyst)
- Blood tests – e.g., CA-125 to check for certain types of cysts (more often in postmenopausal patients)
How are ovarian cysts treated?
Treatment depends on the type, size, symptoms, and age of the patient.
Watchful Waiting
- Many cysts resolve naturally, especially functional ones.
- Your doctor may suggest monitoring with repeat ultrasounds.
Medication
- Hormonal contraception (like the pill) may help prevent future cysts but doesn’t shrink existing ones.
Surgerical
- Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) to remove cysts if they’re large, persistent, causing symptoms, or look suspicious
- Laparotomy (open surgery) for very large or potentially cancerous cysts
Most surgeries preserve the ovaries, especially in younger patients.
Are ovarian cysts cancerous?
Most ovarian cysts are not cancerous. The risk of cancer is higher:
- In postmenopausal women
- If cysts have solid areas or irregular shapes on scans
If there is concern, your doctor will recommend further tests or referral to a specialist.
When should I see a doctor?
Seek immediate advice or go to A&E if you have:
- Sudden, severe pelvic pain
- Pain with fever or vomiting
- Signs of internal bleeding (e.g. weakness, dizziness, fainting)
Can ovarian cysts affect fertility?
Most ovarian cysts do not affect fertility. However:
- Endometriomas (linked to endometriosis) and
- Polycystic ovaries (in PCOS)
may affect ovulation and fertility. These conditions are treated differently.
Living with ovarian cysts
For most people, ovarian cysts are a short-term issue that resolve naturally. With proper monitoring and care, they can be managed easily. If treatment is needed, it’s usually effective and safe.