Ovarian Cysts: Common Types, Symptoms and When They Need Attention

Ovarian Cysts: Common Types, Symptoms and When They Need Attention

Ovarian cysts are fluid filled sacs that develop in or on an ovary. They are common, and many cause no symptoms or disappear without treatment. Some cysts, however, may grow, cause discomfort, or need closer assessment. Knowing what symptoms to notice and when to seek care can help you make informed decisions about your health.

What are ovarian cysts?

The ovaries are part of the reproductive system. They release eggs and produce hormones involved in the menstrual cycle. A cyst may form as part of the normal cycle or for other reasons. Most ovarian cysts are benign, meaning they are not cancer, but the type, size, appearance, symptoms and whether someone has gone through menopause can affect how a cyst is managed.

Common types of ovarian cysts

Functional cysts
These are linked to the menstrual cycle and are the most common type. They include:

• Follicular cysts: A follicle, the small sac where an egg develops, does not release the egg as expected or does not shrink afterwards.
• Corpus luteum cysts: After an egg is released, the follicle becomes the corpus luteum. If it fills with fluid or blood, it may form a cyst.

Functional cysts are usually harmless and often resolve on their own over several weeks or months.

Endometriomas
These cysts are associated with endometriosis, a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it. Endometriomas may be linked with pelvic pain or painful periods.

Dermoid cysts (teratomas)
These usually benign growths can contain different types of tissue, such as hair or fat. They may be present from birth and can grow over time.

Cystadenomas
These typically benign growths develop from the surface of the ovary and can sometimes become large.

Symptoms to look out for

Many ovarian cysts cause no noticeable symptoms and are found during an examination or scan for another reason. When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain, which may feel dull, sharp or come and go
• Pain during sex
• Bloating or a swollen abdomen
• Feeling full sooner than usual
• Needing to urinate more often or urgently
• Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel
• Changes in menstrual bleeding

These symptoms can have causes other than an ovarian cyst. A clinician can help assess what may be causing them.

When does an ovarian cyst need attention?

Arrange an appointment with a gynaecologist if you have persistent or recurring pelvic pain, ongoing bloating, changes in your periods, or urinary or bowel symptoms that are new for you. It is also important to follow up if a scan has already identified a cyst and your clinician has recommended monitoring.

Seek urgent medical care for sudden, severe pelvic or abdominal pain, especially if it comes with nausea or vomiting, faintness, dizziness, fever or feeling very unwell. These symptoms can occur with complications such as a cyst rupture or ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists and its blood supply may be affected.

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

A clinician may ask about your symptoms, menstrual cycle, medical history and whether you could be pregnant. Assessment may include:

• Ultrasound: An abdominal or transvaginal scan can show the cyst’s size, location and appearance.
• Blood tests: These may be recommended in selected cases, depending on the scan findings and personal circumstances. A blood marker such as CA 125 cannot diagnose ovarian cancer on its own; results need to be interpreted alongside other information.

The tests recommended will depend on your individual situation.

Treatment: monitoring or surgery

Treatment is not always necessary. If a cyst appears benign and is not causing concerning symptoms, a clinician may recommend watchful waiting, which means monitoring it and arranging a repeat ultrasound if needed.

Surgery may be considered if a cyst is large, persistent, causing significant symptoms, or has features that need further investigation. When surgery is recommended, the approach depends on the cyst and the person’s circumstances. Where possible, the surgeon may aim to remove the cyst while preserving the ovary. Discuss any fertility concerns with your gynaecologist before treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Do all ovarian cysts need treatment?

No. Many cysts resolve on their own. Whether monitoring or treatment is needed depends on factors such as the cyst’s appearance, size, symptoms and menopausal status.

Can ovarian cysts affect fertility?

Many ovarian cysts do not affect fertility. Some underlying conditions associated with cysts, such as endometriosis, may affect conception. If surgery is being considered, ask your clinician how the proposed treatment could affect your reproductive health.

Does an ovarian cyst mean cancer?

No. Most ovarian cysts are benign. However, a cyst’s appearance and a person’s age and menopausal status can affect whether further assessment is needed. Your clinician can explain what your scan results mean.

Conclusion

Ovarian cysts are common, and many do not require treatment. Persistent symptoms, changes in your health or a cyst that needs monitoring should be discussed with a gynaecologist. Sudden, severe pelvic pain, particularly with nausea, vomiting or faintness, needs urgent medical assessment.

Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. If you have symptoms or concerns about an ovarian cyst, consult a gynaecologist.