Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. They are very common, especially in women of reproductive age, and most are harmless, cause no symptoms, and disappear on their own without treatment. However, some ovarian cysts can grow large, rupture, or cause complications that require medical attention.
Health experts advise women to seek medical evaluation if they experience persistent pelvic pain, abdominal swelling, or sudden severe pain.
What Are Ovarian Cysts?
The ovaries normally produce eggs every month during the menstrual cycle.
Many ovarian cysts form as part of this normal process and are known as functional cysts. These cysts usually disappear within a few weeks or months without treatment.
Other types of cysts may develop due to abnormal tissue growth or underlying medical conditions.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
Common types include:
Functional Cysts
These are the most common and usually harmless.
Dermoid Cysts
These contain different types of body tissue, such as hair, skin, or fat.
Endometriomas
These develop in women with endometriosis.
Cystadenomas
These are fluid-filled growths that develop on the surface of the ovary and can sometimes become quite large.
Most ovarian cysts are non-cancerous.
What Causes Ovarian Cysts?
The causes depend on the type of cyst.
Possible causes include:
- Normal ovulation.
- Endometriosis.
- Hormonal imbalances.
- Pregnancy.
- Severe pelvic infections.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which involves multiple small cysts associated with hormonal changes.
Symptoms
Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms.
When symptoms occur, they may include:
- Pelvic pain.
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen.
- Bloating.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Painful menstrual periods.
- Frequent urination if a large cyst presses on the bladder.
- Difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
Symptoms often depend on the size and type of the cyst.
Possible Complications
Although uncommon, ovarian cysts can sometimes cause:
- Ovarian torsion (twisting of the ovary), which cuts off the blood supply.
- Rupture of the cyst.
- Internal bleeding.
- Rarely, ovarian cancer in postmenopausal women.
These complications require urgent medical attention.
How Are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider may recommend:
- A pelvic examination.
- Pelvic ultrasound.
- Pregnancy testing when appropriate.
- Blood tests, including tumour markers in selected cases.
- CT scan or MRI if further evaluation is needed.
These tests help determine the type and size of the cyst.
Treatment
Treatment depends on your age, symptoms, the size of the cyst, and whether it appears harmless or suspicious.
Watchful Waiting
Small, simple cysts often disappear naturally and may only require follow-up ultrasound scans.
Medications
Pain-relieving medicines may be recommended for discomfort. Hormonal contraceptives may help prevent the formation of new functional cysts, although they do not shrink existing cysts.
Surgery
Surgery may be recommended if the cyst:
- Is large.
- Causes severe symptoms.
- Does not disappear.
- Appears suspicious for cancer.
- Has ruptured or caused ovarian torsion.
Whenever possible, surgeons aim to preserve the ovary, especially in younger women.
When Should You Seek Emergency Care?
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Sudden, severe pelvic or abdominal pain.
- Pain accompanied by fever or vomiting.
- Dizziness or fainting.
- Rapid breathing or signs of shock.
These symptoms may indicate a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion, both of which are medical emergencies.
The Bottom Line
Ovarian cysts are common and are usually harmless, but some require prompt medical treatment. Persistent pelvic pain, abdominal swelling, or sudden severe pain should never be ignored. Regular medical evaluation and appropriate follow-up help ensure that cysts are managed safely and that serious complications are detected early.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Women experiencing symptoms of an ovarian cyst should consult a qualified healthcare professional or gynaecologist for proper evaluation and personalised treatment.
