Ovarian cysts

What are ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluid that form in an ovary or on its surface. Cysts can affect one or both ovaries. Ovarian cysts are very common. Most are harmless and go away without needing treatment.

Ovarian cysts are not related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormonal condition.

Symptoms of ovarian cysts

Most of the time ovarian cysts don’t cause any symptoms. But symptoms can include:

• pain in your belly or pelvis that comes and goes
• pain when you do a poo
• pelvic pain just before or just after you get your period
• pain during sex
• pain with certain movements
• bloating, pressure or heaviness in your belly.

Causes of ovarian cysts

Each month, tiny sacs (follicles) in your ovaries release an egg. Sometimes these follicles turn into cysts, called ‘functional cysts’. Functional cysts are the most common ovarian cysts.

Sometimes ovarian cysts can be cancerous, but this is rare, especially before menopause.

Problems with ovarian cysts

Ovarian cysts can cause other problems. For example, a large ovarian cyst can cause your ovary to move or twist, which can be very painful. This can reduce or stop blood flow to your ovary.

Ovarian cysts can also burst (rupture). This can lead to severe pain and bleeding in your pelvis.

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

If you think you might have ovarian cysts, see your doctor. They will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also do a pelvic examination and other tests, such as a pregnancy test, ultrasound or blood tests.

Treatments for ovarian cysts

Most ovarian cysts don’t need treating. They usually go away on their own.

Some ovarian cysts may need to be removed. For example, if they:

• don’t go away after 3 months
• keep growing
• are larger than 6 cm
• cause symptoms that impact your daily life
• could become cancerous.

Ovarian cysts are usually removed via a laparoscopy (keyhole surgery performed through small cuts in your abdomen).

Your doctor may also recommend the Pill to help prevent the growth of more functional cysts.

When to see your doctor about ovarian cysts

Talk to your doctor if your symptoms, such as pelvic pain, stop you from doing day-to-day activities.

See your doctor straight away if you have:

• sudden severe pelvic pain
• pain with fever, nausea or vomiting.