Ovarian Cyst

Ovarian cysts do not usually cause symptoms unless it splits/ruptures, blocks the blood supply to the ovaries or is very large. Symptoms in these cases include:

• Pain during sex
• Difficulty urinating
• A frequent urge to urinate
• Pelvic pain – this can be anything between a dull, heavy sensation and a sudden, sharp pain
• Heavy, irregular or lighter periods
• Bloating and feeling full after small meals
• Difficulty getting pregnant – this is usually not an issue

• Functional ovarian cysts – these develop as a part of the menstrual cycle. They are normally short-lived and don’t cause any symptoms. These are the most common type of ovarian cyst.
• Pathological ovarian cysts – these form as a result of abnormal cell growth and are much less common.

Ovarian cysts can also be caused by other conditions such as endometriosis. A very small number of ovarian cysts are cancerous; these are more common if you have gone through menopause.

The most common diagnosis for an ovarian cyst is an ultrasound scan. If a cyst is found during your scan, a repeat ultrasound may be performed in a few weeks to monitor the cyst.

If there are any concerns that your cyst might be cancerous, you will also have blood tests to test for high levels of chemicals that can indicate ovarian cancer. High levels of these chemicals does not necessarily mean you have cancer, you may have another condition such as endometriosis, a pelvic infection, fibroids or your period.

You may not need to be treated depending on:

• The size and appearance of the cyst
• Whether you have any symptoms
• Whether you have been through menopause

Most commonly, the cyst will disappear within a few months. A second ultrasound scan may be required to confirm this.

There is a slightly higher risk of ovarian cancer if you have gone through menopause. In this case, regular ultrasound scans and blood tests are recommended to monitor the cyst.

If cysts are large, or are causing significant symptoms, they may need to be removed surgically.