Lower abdominal pain. Bloating. A missed period. These symptoms may point to many things but for millions of women, they signal something very common and often misunderstood: ovarian cysts.
While the word “cyst” may sound alarming, most ovarian cysts are benign, temporary, and symptom-free. Still, some can cause discomfort or, in rare cases, complications. That’s why understanding how they develop, what symptoms to watch for, and when to seek help is so important.
What Is an Ovarian Cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or inside an ovary. Most women of reproductive age will have at least one ovarian cyst during their lifetime often without even knowing it.
Cysts are a normal part of the menstrual cycle, particularly during ovulation. These are called functional cysts and typically go away on their own within a few weeks. Others, like dermoid cysts or endometriomas, are not related to the menstrual cycle and may require monitoring or treatment.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
Understanding the type of cyst can help determine whether treatment is needed:
- Functional Cysts
- Follicular cysts: Occur when a follicle doesn’t release an egg and continues to grow.
- Corpus luteum cysts: Form after an egg is released, when the follicle seals off and fills with fluid.
→ These are the most common and usually resolve naturally.
- Dermoid Cysts (Teratomas)
- Contain tissue like hair, skin, or teeth.
- Usually benign but can grow large.
- Endometriomas
- Develop from endometriosis tissue growing on the ovary.
- Often filled with dark blood and linked to pelvic pain and infertility.
- Cystadenomas
- Form from cells on the ovarian surface and may contain watery or mucous fluid.
- Can grow significantly in size.
- Polycystic Ovaries (PCOS)
- A hormonal condition where many small cysts form, leading to irregular periods and fertility issues.
Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Most cysts cause no symptoms and are discovered incidentally during a routine ultrasound. However, if a cyst grows or ruptures, you may notice:
- Dull or sharp pelvic pain, usually on one side
- Fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen
- Bloating
- Pain during intercourse
- Irregular periods or spotting
- Increased urination or bowel changes if the cyst presses on nearby organs
A sudden, severe pelvic pain could indicate a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion (twisting of the ovary) both medical emergencies requiring urgent care.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek medical evaluation if you experience:
- Persistent or worsening pelvic pain
- Menstrual changes that are unusual for you
- Pain during sex or physical activity
- Unexplained bloating or abdominal swelling
- Trouble emptying your bladder or bowels
- Fever or dizziness in combination with pain
While most ovarian cysts are harmless, some can cause complications, especially if they rupture, bleed, or twist.
How Are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed?
Doctors typically diagnose ovarian cysts through:
- Pelvic ultrasound: The most common method, using sound waves to detect size, shape, and contents.
- Blood tests: Such as CA-125, to rule out rare cases of ovarian cancer, especially in postmenopausal women.
- MRI or CT scan: For further evaluation of complex or large cysts.
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to examine and possibly remove the cyst.
Your doctor will assess your age, symptoms, cyst size, and risk factors before recommending a management plan.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and size of the cyst, your symptoms, and your reproductive goals.
1. Watchful Waiting
For small, symptom-free functional cysts, doctors often recommend a wait-and-see approach, with follow-up ultrasounds over 1–3 months.
2. Hormonal Therapy
Birth control pills may be used to prevent the formation of new cysts in women who develop them frequently but they won’t shrink existing ones.
3. Surgical Removal
Indicated when a cyst:
- Causes severe pain
- Is large or growing
- Has suspicious features
- Interferes with fertility
- Is present in a postmenopausal woman
Most surgeries are performed laparoscopically, with minimal recovery time. In rare cases, part or all of the ovary may be removed.
Can Ovarian Cysts Affect Fertility?
Most ovarian cysts do not interfere with fertility. However, some conditions such as endometriomas or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may impact ovulation or egg quality.
If you’re trying to conceive and have been diagnosed with ovarian cysts, your doctor may recommend additional fertility evaluation or treatment.
Cysts and Cancer
The vast majority of ovarian cysts are benign, especially in women under 50. However, in postmenopausal women, the risk of cancer increases slightly. That’s why regular monitoring and appropriate testing are essential, particularly if a cyst is solid, irregular, or persistent.
Early detection can significantly improve outcomes in the rare cases where malignancy is found.
Trust Your Body and Ask Questions
Ovarian cysts can be unsettling to discover, but they’re a normal part of life for many women. Most are harmless, symptom-free, and resolve without intervention. Still, understanding the signs and seeking proper evaluation can give you clarity and peace of mind.
If you’re experiencing pelvic discomfort, have questions about your reproductive health, or need personalized care for an ovarian cyst, the gynecology team at Erdem Hospital offers expert diagnostics, minimally invasive treatments, and compassionate guidance so you never have to navigate these changes alone.
