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Ovarian Cysts

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac or pocket that develops on or within an ovary. Ovarian cysts are common in women of reproductive age and are often harmless. Many cysts resolve on their own without treatment, while some may require medication or surgery depending on their size, type, symptoms, and risk of complications.

What Are the Ovaries?

The ovaries are two small reproductive organs located on either side of the uterus. They have two main functions:

• Produce eggs (ova)
• Produce hormones such as estrogen and progesterone

During the normal menstrual cycle, follicles develop in the ovaries, and one usually releases an egg during ovulation. Sometimes these follicles continue to grow instead of disappearing, forming a cyst.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

1. Functional Cysts (Most Common)

These develop as part of the normal menstrual cycle and are usually benign.

Follicular Cyst

• Occurs when a follicle does not release an egg.
• The follicle continues to enlarge with fluid.
• Often resolves within a few weeks to months.

Corpus Luteum Cyst

• Forms after the egg has been released.
• The corpus luteum fills with fluid or blood instead of shrinking.
• Usually disappears spontaneously.

2. Pathological Cysts

These are not related to the normal menstrual cycle.

Dermoid Cyst (Mature Cystic Teratoma)

Contains tissues such as:

• Hair
• Skin
• Fat
• Teeth (rarely)

Usually benign but may require surgical removal.

Endometrioma

Develops due to Endometriosis.

Also called a “chocolate cyst” because it contains old blood.

Cystadenoma

Develops from the ovarian surface.

May contain:

• Clear fluid (serous)
• Thick mucus (mucinous)

Can become quite large.

Polycystic Ovaries

Women with PCOS may have multiple small follicles visible on ultrasound. These are not true ovarian cysts, although they are commonly mistaken for them.

Causes and Risk Factors

The likelihood of developing ovarian cysts may increase with:

• Hormonal fluctuations
• Pregnancy
• Endometriosis
• PCOS
• Previous ovarian cysts
• Fertility treatments that stimulate ovulation

Symptoms

Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and are discovered during routine pelvic examination or ultrasound.

When symptoms occur, they may include:

Pelvic Pain

• Dull aching pain
• Sharp pain
• Pain on one side

Menstrual Changes

• Irregular periods
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Painful periods

Abdominal Symptoms

• Bloating
• Abdominal fullness
• Feeling of pressure

Pain During Intercourse

Deep pelvic pain during sexual intercourse may occur, especially with larger cysts or endometriomas.

Urinary or Bowel Symptoms

Large cysts may press on nearby organs, causing:

• Frequent urination
• Difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation

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