What is an ovarian cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a sac filled with fluid (or semisolid material) that forms on or within one or both ovaries. Most ovarian cysts are benign (noncancerous) and symptomless, often discovered during routine pelvic exams or imaging tests. While usually harmless, regular pelvic exams and discussing any symptoms with your provider can help manage potential complications.

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What are the different types of ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts include functional cysts, associated with your menstrual cycle, and other, less common cysts associated with various health conditions.

Ovarian cyst symptoms

Most ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms. However, some can result in symptoms that are painful or interfere with your everyday life. Common symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Bloating
  • Swelling

Less often, you may also experience:

  • Breast soreness
  • Dyspareunia (pain during sex)
  • Menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding)
  • Pain in your back or thighs
  • Painful periods
  • Pelvic pain or dull back or thigh pain
  • Problems with using the bathroom, feeling like you need to urinate often, or you can’t completely empty your bladder or bowel
  • Weight gain

If your cyst causes your ovary to twist, called a torsion, you may experience nausea or vomiting.

If your cyst ruptures (breaks open), you may experience severe pain that comes on quickly.

When to see a doctor

Talk to your women’s health specialist if you experience pelvic pain, bloating, pressure, swelling or other symptoms that might indicate an ovarian cyst. Most ovarian cysts do not cause cancer, so they do not always need to be treated, but your provider can help you address symptoms.

You should always seek medical attention if you have sudden, severe pelvic pain and pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can indicate that a cyst has ruptured.

What causes ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts develop in response to your monthly menstrual cycle and can form in anyone who menstruates. The most common causes of ovarian cysts include:

  • Endometriosis: Severe endometriosis can cause cysts in the ovaries. These may lead to ongoing pelvic pain and loss of fertility.
  • Hormonal imbalance: Hormonal changes from several causes, including medications you take, may cause ovarian cysts.
  • Infertility medications stimulate ovulation, which can lead to the development of functional cysts.
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causes the ovaries to make many small cysts in response to a hormone imbalance. Having PCOS can increase your risk of infertility and cause other health problems, but your women’s health specialist can help you manage it.
  • Pelvic infections: Severe pelvic infections can cause ovarian cysts to form if the infection travels to the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
  • Pregnancy: You may have an ovarian cyst form during early pregnancy. In many cases, these are functional cysts that are not harmful. However, some cysts can cause complications, so you will want to work with your OBGYN to determine if or when treatment is necessary.

Complications

Many ovarian cysts go away without serious aftereffects. However, some may result in complications that need medical attention.

  • Cancerous cyst: While most ovarian cysts are harmless, a few are cancerous. Your doctor should monitor all ovarian cysts, especially in women after menopause.
  • Ovarian torsion: An ovarian torsion is when your ovary twists over the ligaments that support it. This typically happens when you have a large cyst, at least 5 centimeters across in size. Ovarian torsion must be surgically corrected.
  • Ruptured ovarian cyst: A ruptured ovarian cyst has broken open. It may cause fainting, fever, heavy bleeding, severe pain or vomiting. If you believe an ovarian cyst has ruptured, seek medical help right away.

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

To diagnose an ovarian cyst, your OBGYN will examine you and ask about your medical history. They may also order tests to help them understand your condition.

Ovarian cyst treatment

Many ovarian cysts resolve on their own. Treatments depend on the size of the cyst, its associated symptoms and whether it continues to grow.

Watchful waiting

If an ovarian cyst causes no symptoms and remains relatively small, your provider may opt for watchful waiting. You’ll have ultrasounds over a few months to see whether the cyst changes, grows or disappears.

Find specialized care for ovarian cysts

We help you get care at a location that fits your needs. We offer several locations for your care, including specialized centers in North and Central Texas.

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