Health and Wellness advice you can trust
 
ACOG

Wellbeing is a new health and lifestyle resource, brought to you in association with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), a nonprofit membership organization of more than 50,000 obstetrician- gynecologists. Designed for women at every stage of life, from pregnancy and birth, to menopause and beyond, Wellbeing is an essential guide for a healthier, happier you!

 
 

disclaimer

Neither this website nor its contents constitute an explicit or implied endorsement by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), or by Boston Hannah International (BHI), of the products or services mentioned in advertising or editorial content. The editorial content on this website does not necessarily represent policies or recommendations by ACOG. This website is not intended to be exhaustive. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, neither ACOG, nor BHI shall have any liability for errors or omissions. Readers who have questions should consult their health care providers or other competent sources of information and guidance.

Click here to read the full disclaimer

 

Your health ovarian cysts

 
 

Ovarian cysts: an overview

Ovarian cysts

Although most cysts are harmless and go away on their own, your doctor will want to keep track of them.

Although the words "ovarian cysts" can strike fear into women's minds, there's no need to worry. They are usually harmless and disappear on their own without treatment.

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or within an ovary. They are common in women during their childbearing years. There are many different types of ovarian cysts, most of which are benign, meaning they are not cancerous. Rarely, they can be malignant (see box) or cause bleeding and pain, which is why they should be checked by your doctor. To protect your health, it's best to know the symptoms and types of ovarian cysts that can signal a more serious problem.

Types of ovarian cysts

Your doctor needs to know

Ovarian cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages. If you have any of these warning signs, talk to your doctor:

  • Enlargement or swelling of the stomach
  • Nausea or heartburn that doesn't go away
  • Loss of appetite
  • Pelvic pain
  • Constipation
  • Bloating
  • Frequent urination
 

Functional cysts
The most common type of ovarian cyst, these develop from tissue that changes during ovulation. The two kinds of functional cyst follicle and corpus luteum usually have no symptoms and disappear within six to eight weeks.

Dermoid cysts
These are derived from cells that form human eggs, so they consist of different kinds of tissue from other parts of the body, including hair, fat and teeth. They may be found on both ovaries. They often don't cause symptoms unless they grow.

Cystadenomas
Cystadenomas develop from ovarian tissue on the outer surface of the ovary. Although usually benign, they can grow very large and cause pain.

Endometriomas
These cysts form as a result of endometriosis (see endometriosis). Because these cysts are filled with dark, reddish-brown blood, they are sometimes called "chocolate cysts."

How an ovarian cyst is diagnosed

As most ovarian cysts cause no symptoms, they are often diagnosed during a routine pelvic exam. If your doctor discovers an enlarged ovary, he or she may do other tests such as an ultrasound, a laparoscopy or blood tests.

Treatment options

If your cyst is small and isn't causing any symptoms, your doctor may simply monitor it for a month or two but if it's large or causing symptoms, he or she may suggest surgery. The extent and type of surgery will depend on the size and type of cyst as well as your age, symptoms and desire to have children.

Finally–

Although most cysts are harmless and go away on their own, your doctor will want to keep track of them. If you are concerned because you have ovarian cysts, talk to your doctor so that you can work together to reduce the risk of further problems.

 
 

Related articles

Endometriosis Endometriosis

Endometriosis affects about 5 million women in the United States. If you experience pelvic pain, especially during your menstrual period, and have had problems getting pregnant, you could be affected. Don't worry; it can be treated with medications, hormones and surgery.

 
 
Recommended screening tests and exams Recommended screening tests and exams

Here's what you need to know about two simple, routine tests that could save your life.

 
 
To find an obstetrician-gynecologist using ACOG's Physician Directory, click here