Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside an ovary. Most are harmless (benign) and resolve on their own, but some may cause symptoms or require treatment. They are common in women of reproductive age and can occur in post-menopausal women as well.
Types of ovarian cysts
- Functional Cysts (most common):
Follicular cysts: Form when a follicle doesn’t release an egg.
Corpus luteum cysts: Develop after an egg is released during menstrual cycle. - Pathological Cysts:
Dermoid cysts: Contain tissue like hair, skin, or teeth.
Endometriomas: Linked to endometriosis (“chocolate cysts”).
Cystadenomas: Filled with watery or mucous fluid.
Common symptoms
Many cysts cause no symptoms. When present, symptoms may include:
- Pelvic pain or a dull ache in the lower abdomen.
- Bloating or swelling.
- Irregular periods or spotting.
- Pain during intercourse or bowel movements.
- Frequent urination (if a cyst presses on the bladder).
Causes & risk factors
- Hormonal fluctuations (e.g., during the menstrual cycle).
- Endometriosis or pelvic infections.
- Pregnancy (corpus luteum cysts support early pregnancy).
- Age: Most common in pre-menopausal women.
- Family history of cysts or ovarian cancer.
Diagnosis
- Pelvic exam: To check for swelling or tenderness.
- Ultrasound: Determines cyst size, location, and type (fluid-filled vs. solid).
- Blood tests: CA-125 (used cautiously, as levels can rise due to non-cancerous conditions) and other tumour markers if cyst diagnosed < 40 years of age.
Treatment options
- Watchful Waiting:
Many cysts resolve on their own in 1–3 menstrual cycles.
Follow-up ultrasounds to monitor changes. - Medications:
Hormonal birth control pills to prevent new cysts (does not shrink existing ones).
Pain relief with ibuprofen or paracetamol. - Surgery:
Laparoscopy: Minimally invasive removal for persistent or suspicious cysts.
Laparotomy: For large or complex cysts (rare).
eGynaecologist Advice
- Most ovarian cysts are harmless and resolve without treatment however, monitoring in consultation with gynaecologist and timely care prevent complications.
- You should seek gynaecological consultation if you develop persistent pelvic pain or bloating or changes in menstrual patterns.
- You must seek urgent gynaecological consultation if you are known to have ovarian cyst and develop sudden pain, fever, dizziness and/or vomiting as this may indicate rupture/torsion of cyst.
- Most cysts do not affect fertility. However, endometriomas or recurrent cysts may require specialized care with your gynaecologist.
- Most cysts are benign, but rare cases may be cancerous, especially in post-menopausal women. You should seek gynaecological consultation to rule out suspicion of malignancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ovarian cysts turn into cancer?
Rarely. Most are benign, but post-menopausal women may need closer monitoring.
Do cysts affect pregnancy?
Functional cysts often support early pregnancy. Large cysts may require monitoring.
How long until a cyst goes away?
Many resolve in 1–3 months. Follow-up scans ensure they shrink.
Can I prevent cysts?
Hormonal contraceptives reduce the risk of new functional cysts.
