Ovarian Cysts
The vast majority of ovarian cysts are non-cancerous (benign) but some are cancerous (malignant), or may become cancerous over time. You may not experience any ovarian cyst symptoms or require any treatment, as many go away on their own. However, some ovarian cysts may need removal with an operation.
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac which develops on one of your ovaries. Many are related to your menstrual hormone changes - these usually settle on their own within a few weeks without any treatment. Ovarian cysts often don't cause any symptoms. However, if they become bigger or don't settle on their own, you may need treatment.
Ovarian cyst treatment
The doctor will advise on the best course of action. This depends on factors such as:
- Your age.
- Whether you are past the menopause.
- The appearance and size of your cyst from the ultrasound scan.
- Whether you have any symptoms.
How long do ovarian cysts last?
Many small ovarian cysts will resolve and disappear over a few months. You may be advised to have a repeat ultrasound scan after a few months or so. If the cyst goes away then no further action is needed.
Operation
Removal of an ovarian cyst may be advised, especially if you have symptoms or if the cyst is large. Sometimes the doctor may want to remove the cyst to determine exactly which type of cyst it is and to make sure there are no cancer cells in it. Most smaller cysts can be removed by 'keyhole' (laparoscopic) surgery. Some cysts require a more open style of operation, with a cut in the lower part of the tummy.
The type of operation depends on factors such as the type of cyst, your age, and whether cancer is suspected or ruled out. In some cases, just the cyst is removed and the ovary tissue preserved. In some cases, the ovary is also removed, and sometimes other nearby structures such as the womb (uterus) and the other ovary.
FAQs
Types of cysts include the following:
- Functional cyst— This is the most common type of ovarian cyst. It usually causes no symptoms. Functional cysts often go away without treatment within 6 to 8 weeks.
- Teratoma— This is a cyst or benign tumor that contains different kinds of tissues that make up the body, such as skin and hai. Teratomas may be present from birth and can grow during the reproductive years. In very rare cases, some teratomas can become cancer.
- Cystadenoma— This is a benign tumor that forms on the outer surface of the ovary. These tumors can grow very large even though they usually are benign.
- Endometrioma— This cyst forms as a result of endometriosis.
In most cases, cysts do not cause symptoms. Many are found during a routine pelvic exam or imaging test done for another reason. Some cysts may cause a dull or sharp ache in the abdomen and pain during certain activities. Larger cysts may cause twisting of the ovary. This twisting may cause pain on one side that comes and goes or can start suddenly. Cysts that bleed or burst also may cause sudden, severe pain.
There are several treatment options for cysts. Choosing an option depends on the type of cyst and other factors. Treatment options include watchful waiting and, if the cyst is large or causing symptoms, surgery.
Surgery may be recommended if your cyst is very large or causing symptoms or if cancer is suspected. The type of surgery depends on several factors, including how large the cyst is, your age, your desire to have children, and whether you have a family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer. A cystectomy is the removal of a cyst from the ovary. In some cases, an ovary may need to be removed. This is called an oophorectomy.
