Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Key Takeaways

• Ovarian cysts are common, usually harmless, and often go away on their own. In rare cases, they can grow large, rupture, or twist the ovary.
• Cysts are fluid-filled sacs. Functional cysts are the most common type and form as part of a normal menstrual cycle, typically resolving without treatment.
• Ovarian cysts can also develop due to PCOS, endometriosis, or abnormal cell growth.
• Common ovarian cyst symptoms include pelvic pressure or pain, bloating, painful periods, and frequent urination, though signs vary depending on the cyst’s size and location.
• Seek emergency care for sudden severe pain, dizziness, fever, or weakness.
• Diagnosis typically involves ultrasound, blood tests, and pregnancy testing. Ovarian cyst treatment ranges from monitoring to pain management, hormonal birth control, or surgery.

Ovarian Cysts: Awareness Is the Key to Timely Treatment

According to a study published in the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care, roughly 1 in 10 women in the United States develop an ovarian cyst at some point, so being told you have one can understandably raise questions or concerns. At Almara, gynecologists have cared for women across 175,000+ visits, including many who have been evaluated for ovarian cysts. 

The reassuring part is that most ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and can even go away without treatment. However, some cysts can grow larger, rupture, or push the ovary to twist, which can lead to significant pain and other complications.

Understanding the typical causes and warning signs can help you recognize when an ovarian cyst needs medical attention and when it may simply need monitoring.

What are Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on or inside an ovary. Not all cysts form for the same reason, and several different types exist. Many are functional cysts, which form as part of a typical menstrual cycle.

In most cases, ovarian cysts are benign, meaning they are not cancerous, and they tend to resolve on their own. A new cyst diagnosis is not usually a reason to panic.

What Causes Ovarian Cysts?

A few different conditions can lead to ovarian cysts:

Functional Cysts

During ovulation, a follicle typically grows and releases an egg. When an egg is not released, or the follicle does not shrink back down after release, a functional cyst can form. These usually resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal condition linked to multiple small ovarian follicles and irregular ovulation. These follicles are different from the larger cysts that sometimes require treatment.

Endometriosis

Ovarian cysts called endometriomas can develop as a result of endometriosis. These form when endometrial-like tissue grows within the ovary and fills with old blood.

Other Reasons

In rare cases, abnormal cell growth can lead to ovarian growths, some benign and some cancerous. If a cyst persists or has an unusual appearance on imaging, your doctor may recommend follow-up scans to monitor it closely.

What Are the Usual Signs of Ovarian Cysts?

Not all cysts have symptoms. Warning signs also depend on a cyst’s size and location, and whether it has twisted the ovary or ruptured. Watch out for:

• Pain on one side in the lower abdomen
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Abdominal fullness or bloating
• Change in menstrual bleeding
• Painful periods
• Feeling full fast while eating
• Frequent urination (in case a big cyst is pressing on the bladder)

However, note that some ovarian cyst symptoms might overlap with certain digestive or other gynecological issues. Also, symptom severity and suddenness can vary from woman to woman. For instance:

• If the cyst is small, you might experience nothing or just occasional pelvic pressure.
• Large cysts might lead to a full feeling or persistent discomfort.
• Sudden pain along with nausea or vomiting might signal ovarian torsion and needs urgent care.
• If a cyst ruptures, besides sudden pain, it might trigger internal bleeding.

When Should You Seek Emergency Care for an Ovarian Cyst?

While ovarian cysts aren’t typically medical emergencies, do not ignore symptoms like:

• Sudden, serious pain (sometimes accompanied by nausea or vomiting)
• Dizziness or fainting
• Weakness
• Severe vaginal bleeding
• Rapid breathing
• Fever along with pelvic pain

How Do Doctors Diagnose Ovarian Cysts?

Healthcare providers usually start by reviewing your medical and menstrual history, symptoms, and any past reproductive concerns. Along with a pelvic exam, your doctor may also order:

Ultrasound

A transvaginal ultrasound is often advised to obtain detailed images of the ovaries. This can also help determine the cyst’s location, appearance, and size.

Blood Tests

While blood tests aren’t always essential, doctors might recommend them after considering your age, ultrasound results, medical history, and symptoms. However, you shouldn’t stress right away, since blood tests often help rule out many disorders.

Pregnancy Testing

Gynecologists might recommend a pregnancy test in case you are of reproductive age and experiencing unusual bleeding or pelvic pain. This way, they can rule out causes associated with pregnancy, like ectopic pregnancy.

What Is the Treatment for Ovarian Cysts?

Your doctor will factor in your symptoms, the cyst’s type and size, your reproductive goals, and your age before recommending an ovarian cyst treatment plan. Common approaches include:

Watchful Waiting

Instead of immediate intervention, doctors may focus on monitoring for functional cysts. They might schedule a follow-up ultrasound to see whether the cyst changes or resolves. This approach is common if the cyst is small, seemingly benign, and isn’t triggering major symptoms.

Pain Management

Healthcare providers often suggest pain-relief measures if a cyst causes discomfort. These measures are different for different women. Gynecologists also consider if you are trying to conceive, are pregnant, or have other disorders.

Hormonal Birth Control

By preventing ovulation, hormonal contraceptives can lower the chances of developing new functional cysts. They will not typically make an existing cyst disappear quickly, and your gynecologist will weigh your health and reproductive plans before recommending this option.

Surgery

Surgery (sometimes minimally invasive, like laparoscopy) might be advised if a cyst:

• Is too large
• Persists or grows continuously
• Shows worrying features in images
• Might be cancerous
• Triggers significant symptoms
• Has ruptured and is causing complications
• Has led to ovarian torsion

Why Staying Informed About Ovarian Cysts Matters

Ovarian cysts are both common and, in most cases, harmless. Many women never realize they have one unless symptoms appear. Still, if you notice any concerning signs, reaching out to a gynecologist is the right move. They can diagnose you and suggest the treatment that fits your situation best.

Consult Almara Clinic Gynecologists to Address Ovarian Cysts Effectively

Our board-certified gynecologists at Almara combine clinical expertise with compassionate, personalized care. We explain what your ovarian cyst means, help manage any symptoms, and recommend treatment based on your health and reproductive goals.

If you’re unsure about the care you need, you can turn to our experienced team. Since the 1950s, we’ve cared for 45,000 women every year, bringing decades of experience to every visit.

Visit one of our Almara clinics today. You can also write to info@helloalmara.com.

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