Ovarian cyst
The ovarian cyst is a fluid sac that develops on the ovary and is common and not usually a cause of any symptoms. Mainly, ovarian cysts occur naturally and disappear in a few months without treatments.
Ovarian cyst symptoms
An ovarian cyst causes symptoms if it is huge, splits, or blocks the blood supply to your ovaries. In these cases, you might develop:
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Difficulties emptying your bowels
- Frequent need for urine
- Irregular periods, heavy periods, or lighter than normal period
- Swollen or bloating abdomen
- Feeling full after eating a little
- Difficulty in getting pregnant
Consult a doctor if you have symptoms of an ovarian cyst.
Ovarian cyst causes
Rarely underlying conditions like endometriosis can cause ovarian cysts. Endometriosis occurs when pieces of the tissue line up the womb’s fallopian tubes, ovaries, bowel, bladder, vagina, or rectum. Cysts filled with blood can form fragments of tissue.
Ovarian cyst treatments
The treatment for ovarian cyst depends on:
- The appearance and size
- The symptoms you develop
- Whether you have been through the menopause
Often, the cyst disappears in a few months, but a follow-up ultrasound is crucial to ensure. There is a slightly higher risk of ovarian cancer if you are postmenopausal while having an ovarian cyst.
Regular blood tests and ultrasounds are recommendable every year to monitor the cyst.
Surgical removal of the cysts is only needed if they are large, cause multiple symptoms, or are potentially cancerous.
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022