An ovarian cyst is a sac filled with fluid or semi-solid material that forms on or inside an ovary. Most ovarian cysts are not cancerous and often appear as part of the normal menstrual cycle.
Even though most cysts are harmless, discovering one can be stressful, especially because of worries about cancer.
What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts?
Most ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms and are often found by chance during routine pelvic exams or ultrasounds for other reasons.
If symptoms do appear, they can look like those of other conditions, such as urinary tract infections, kidney issues, or digestive problems. Possible symptoms include:
Irregular or missed periods
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Pelvic pain or pressure
Pain in the lower back or thighs
Pain before or after periods
Pain during sexual intercourse
Difficulty emptying the bladder or frequent urination
Bloating or abdominal swelling
Feeling full quickly even after eating little
Breast tenderness
Unexplained weight gain
Pain during bowel movements or constipation
What are the different types of ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts come in several types:
1. Functional cysts (most common): These cysts develop during the normal menstrual cycle and usually disappear without treatment.
Follicular cysts: Occur when a follicle does not release an egg and continues to grow.
Corpus luteum cysts: Form after the egg is released and fluid collects in the follicle.
2. Other types of cysts: These types do not develop as part of the normal menstrual cycle:
Dermoid cysts: Contain tissues like hair, fat, or teeth.
Endometriomas (Chocolate cysts): Occur due to endometriosis when uterine-like tissue grows on the ovaries.
Cystadenomas: Grow on the surface of the ovary and may be filled with watery or thick fluid.
What causes ovarian cysts?
Common causes are:
Ovulation (most common cause)
Hormonal imbalance
Endometriosis
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which causes many small cysts
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or pelvic infections
Abnormal cell growth, leading to dermoid cysts or cystadenomas
How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?
To find out if you have an ovarian cyst, your doctor may do the following:
Pelvic examination to check for swelling or tenderness
Ultrasound, which shows the size, location, and type of cyst
Pregnancy test, to rule out pregnancy
Laparoscopy, a simple surgery that lets the doctor look at and remove the cyst if needed
How are ovarian cysts treated?
Treatment of ovarian cysts depends on your age, symptoms, and the type and size of the cyst.
Watchful waiting
Most functional cysts resolve on their own. Your doctor may recommend follow-up ultrasounds after a few months.
Medications
Hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills) may prevent new cysts from forming by stopping ovulation.
Surgery
Surgery may be needed if the cyst:
Is large
Causes pain
Does not go away
Looks suspicious
Surgical options include:
Laparoscopy: Minimally invasive surgery to remove the cyst (ovarian cystectomy)
Laparotomy: Open surgery for very large or complex cysts
If cancer is suspected, your doctor may involve a gynecologic oncologist.
Can ovarian cysts affect fertility?
Most ovarian cysts do not affect fertility. However:
PCOS can interfere with ovulation and make it harder to conceive.
Severe endometriosis-related cysts may also impact fertility.
Can ovarian cysts be prevented?
Ovarian cysts cannot always be prevented. However:
Hormonal birth control may reduce the chance of recurring cysts
Regular gynecological check-ups help detect cysts early
Tracking symptoms and reporting changes to your doctor is important
How can I manage symptoms at home?
If symptoms are mild, the following may help:
Over-the-counter pain relief
Heat therapy (heating pad on the abdomen)
Gentle exercise
Relaxation techniques
Healthy diet changes
Massage for pain relief
Always consult your doctor before starting any home remedies.
When should I see a doctor?
See a healthcare provider if you experience:
Sudden or severe pelvic pain
Persistent bloating or pressure
Fever with pain
Rapid abdominal swelling
Symptoms that interfere with daily life
Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Ovarian Cysts treatment in Lucknow, India?
Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Ovarian Cysts treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced gynecologists, known as some of the best doctors for women’s reproductive health care. We provide accurate diagnosis with advanced ultrasound and imaging, personalized medical management, and minimally invasive surgical treatment when required. Our team has decades of experience in successfully treating Ovarian Cysts in Lucknow, India.
To seek an Expert Consultation for Ovarian Cysts treatment in Lucknow, India: