What is an ovarian cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops in or on an ovary. Ovarian cysts are very common and are often detected during a routine ultrasound scan.
Most ovarian cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and many disappear on their own without treatment.
Why do ovarian cysts occur?
Functional (normal) cysts
These develop as part of the menstrual cycle and usually resolve naturally.
Examples:
Follicular cyst
Corpus luteum cyst
Other types of benign cysts
Endometriotic cysts (chocolate cysts)
Dermoid cysts
Serous or mucinous cysts
Polycystic ovaries (different from ovarian cysts)
What symptoms can ovarian cysts cause?
Many women have no symptoms at all.
Possible symptoms include:
Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
Bloating or abdominal fullness
Pain during periods
Pain during intercourse
Irregular menstrual bleeding
Frequent urination if the cyst is large
What happens after an ovarian cyst is detected?
Your doctor will consider:
1. Your age
Premenopausal
Perimenopausal
Postmenopausal
2. Size of the cyst
Small cysts often need only observation
Larger cysts may require further evaluation
3. Appearance on ultrasound
The scan helps determine whether the cyst appears:
Simple (fluid-filled)
Complex (contains solid areas or septations)
Suspicious for malignancy
4. Your symptoms
Pain, pressure symptoms, or menstrual disturbances may influence treatment.
Will I need more tests?
Depending on the ultrasound findings, your doctor may advise:
Blood testsCA-125 (especially in postmenopausal women)
Other tumour markers in selected cases
Repeat ultrasound
Many cysts are rechecked after 6–12 weeks to see whether they have disappeared or changed in size.
MRI scan
Occasionally required when ultrasound findings are unclear.
When is treatment NOT required?
Usually when:
The cyst is simple
Small in size
You have no symptoms
Ultrasound features appear benign
In such cases, observation and follow-up scans may be sufficient.
When is surgery recommended?
Surgery may be advised if:
The cyst is large
It continues to grow
It causes significant pain
It looks suspicious on ultrasound
It persists after follow-up
There is concern about ovarian cancer
Most benign cysts can be removed using laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery.
Warning Signs – Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or visit the emergency department if you develop:
Sudden severe abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting with pain
Dizziness or fainting
Fever with pelvic pain
These symptoms may indicate:
Ovarian torsion (twisting of the ovary)
Rupture of the cyst
Internal bleeding
These conditions may require emergency treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ovarian cysts cause infertility?
Most ovarian cysts do not affect fertility. However, some conditions such as endometriosis or severe ovarian disease may influence fertility.
Do ovarian cysts always need surgery?
No. Most ovarian cysts are managed with observation and follow-up.
Does an ovarian cyst mean cancer?
No. The vast majority of ovarian cysts are benign. Your doctor will assess ultrasound features and, if necessary, perform additional tests.
Can ovarian cysts come back?
Some types can recur, especially functional cysts and endometriotic cysts.
Key Message
Finding an ovarian cyst on ultrasound is common and usually not a cause for alarm. Most cysts are harmless and many disappear naturally. The next step depends on your age, symptoms, the size of the cyst, and its appearance on ultrasound. Regular follow-up with your gynecologist will help determine the safest and most appropriate management.