Ovarian Cyst

Key Points

Overview

The ovaries are two almond-shaped organs in the female reproductive system, located on each side of the womb. They release eggs monthly and produce important sex hormones like oestrogen and progesterone. An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on an ovary. Ovarian cysts are very common and often occur naturally as part of the menstrual cycle (functional cysts). These are usually harmless and short-lived. Less commonly, cysts can form due to abnormal cell growth (pathological cysts) or underlying conditions like endometriosis. Most ovarian cysts are non-cancerous, though a small number can be cancerous, especially after menopause. Most cysts go away on their own within a few months without needing treatment. However, if a cyst is large, causes symptoms, or is suspected to be cancerous, medical attention and potential treatment may be necessary.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pelvic pain (dull ache to sharp, severe pain)
• Pain during sex
• Difficulty emptying bowels
• Frequent need to urinate
• Heavy, irregular, or lighter periods
• Bloating and a swollen tummy
• Feeling very full after little food
• Difficulty getting pregnant (rarely)

Things That Increase the Risk

• Normal menstrual cycle (functional cysts)
• Abnormal cell growth
• Endometriosis
• Being post-menopausal (higher cancer risk)
• Pelvic infection
• Uterine fibroids

Diagnosis

• GP referral if an ovarian cyst is suspected
• Transvaginal ultrasound scan
• Repeat ultrasound for monitoring
• Referral to a gynaecologist
• Blood tests for cancer markers (if concern)

Treatment & Management

• Watchful waiting (most cysts disappear on their own)
• Follow-up ultrasound scans
• Regular monitoring for post-menopausal women
• Surgical removal (for large, symptomatic, or suspicious cysts)
• Cyst removal while preserving fertility
• Ovary removal (if medically necessary)

Prevention

• No specific prevention for all ovarian cysts
• Regular gynaecological check-ups
• Monitoring for new or changing symptoms
• Managing underlying conditions like endometriosis
• Awareness of risks, especially after menopause

Related Diseases

• Endometriosis
• Ovarian Cancer
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
• Uterine Fibroids

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Ovarian Cyst:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Ovarian Cyst: