What Is an Ovarian Cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac or pocket that develops on or within the ovary. Ovarian cysts can vary in size from small to large. They may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can develop for various reasons, including as part of the normal menstrual cycle or due to underlying medical conditions. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and resolve on their own without treatment, but some may cause symptoms or complications, such as pain, bloating, or rupture.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
Functional Cysts
Functional cysts develop as part of the normal menstrual cycle and include follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts.
Pathological Cysts
Pathological cysts result from abnormal cell growth and include dermoid cysts, endometriomas, and cystadenomas.
Causes
Functional cysts form when follicles in the ovary fail to rupture and release an egg or when the corpus luteum persists after ovulation.
Pathological cysts may develop due to hormonal imbalances, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or other underlying conditions.
Symptoms
Most ovarian cysts are asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally during routine pelvic exams or imaging studies.
Symptoms, when present, may include pelvic pain or discomfort, bloating, pressure, abdominal swelling, changes in menstrual patterns, pain during intercourse, or urinary urgency or frequency.
Diagnosis
Ovarian cysts may be diagnosed during a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or other imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scan.
Blood tests may be performed to evaluate hormone levels or tumor markers, particularly if there is concern about malignancy.
Treatment
Many ovarian cysts resolve on their own without treatment and require only monitoring.
Treatment options for symptomatic or complex cysts may include watchful waiting, pain management, hormonal birth control to prevent new cysts from forming, or surgical removal (cystectomy) in cases of large, persistent, or suspicious cysts.
Complications
Complications of ovarian cysts may include rupture, torsion (twisting), hemorrhage, or malignant transformation.
Ruptured cysts can cause sudden, severe abdominal pain and may lead to internal bleeding or infection, requiring prompt medical attention.