Ovarian Cyst Symptoms and Warning Signs

Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and are found only during a pelvic exam or imaging test. When symptoms do occur, they can vary depending on the size and type of cyst.

Common symptoms

Possible symptoms can include:

  • pelvic pain or pressure
  • bloating or abdominal fullness
  • pain during intercourse
  • pain with bowel movements
  • discomfort around the menstrual period
  • swelling or heaviness in the lower abdomen

Some cysts can also cause sudden pain if they rupture, bleed, or twist the ovary.

When urgent medical care may be needed

Seek prompt medical attention for:

  • sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain
  • pain accompanied by fever or vomiting
  • dizziness, weakness, rapid breathing, or other signs of shock
  • unusual bleeding with severe pain

These symptoms can be associated with complications such as ovarian torsion or cyst rupture.

How ovarian cysts are evaluated

A healthcare professional may use a pelvic examination, ultrasound, and sometimes additional testing to determine the size and appearance of a cyst. Many functional cysts resolve on their own, while others may require monitoring or treatment depending on symptoms, size, age, and other factors.

Sources

MedlinePlus — Ovarian Cysts
Mayo Clinic — Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms and Causes

Medical disclaimer: This website provides general educational information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Contact a qualified healthcare professional with questions about symptoms or treatment.

 

Types of Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluid or other tissue that form in or on an ovary. They are common, and most are benign. Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and may disappear without treatment.

Functional cysts

Functional cysts are the most common type. They develop as part of the menstrual cycle and often resolve on their own within several weeks. Two common functional cysts are follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts.

Teratomas

Teratomas, sometimes called dermoid cysts, can contain different types of body tissue, such as skin or hair. They are usually benign, although rare cases can become cancerous.

Cystadenomas

Cystadenomas form from cells on the outer surface of an ovary. They are generally benign but can sometimes become quite large.

Endometriomas

Endometriomas are ovarian cysts associated with endometriosis. They develop when endometriosis affects an ovary.

Symptoms

Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they can include pelvic pain or pressure, bloating, abdominal swelling, or pain during certain activities. Sudden severe pain can occur if a cyst ruptures, bleeds, or causes the ovary to twist.

Diagnosis and monitoring

A healthcare professional may detect an ovarian cyst during a pelvic examination or ultrasound. Some cysts can simply be monitored, while others may require additional testing or treatment depending on their size, appearance, symptoms, and other factors.

Sources

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Ovarian Cysts
MedlinePlus — Ovarian Cysts

Medical disclaimer: This website provides general educational information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Contact a qualified healthcare professional with questions about symptoms or treatment.

How Ovarian Cysts Are Diagnosed

Ovarian cysts are often discovered during a routine pelvic examination or an imaging test. Some cause symptoms, while others are found incidentally when a person is being evaluated for another reason.

Pelvic examination

A healthcare professional may detect swelling, tenderness, or an enlarged ovary during a pelvic examination. A pelvic exam alone usually cannot determine the exact type of cyst.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is commonly used to evaluate an ovarian cyst. It can help show:

  • the size of the cyst
  • its location
  • whether it appears fluid-filled, solid, or mixed
  • whether it has changed over time

Additional testing

Depending on the situation, additional tests may sometimes be recommended. These can include pregnancy testing, blood tests, or repeat imaging.

The need for additional testing depends on factors such as age, symptoms, cyst size, ultrasound appearance, and whether the cyst changes over time.

Monitoring

Many functional ovarian cysts resolve without treatment. A healthcare professional may recommend repeating an ultrasound after a period of time to monitor the cyst.

When further evaluation may be needed

Further evaluation may be recommended when a cyst:

  • is large
  • continues to grow
  • causes persistent symptoms
  • appears unusual on imaging
  • occurs after menopause

Sources

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Ovarian Cysts
MedlinePlus — Ovarian Cysts
Mayo Clinic — Ovarian Cysts: Diagnosis and Treatment

Medical disclaimer: This website provides general educational information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Contact a qualified healthcare professional with questions about symptoms or treatment.