Ovarian Cyst
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on your ovaries. They’re usually harmless and often go away without treatment, but in some cases need to be removed.
What is an ovarian cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on your ovary. Ovarian cysts are common and often resolve without treatment. Most cysts are benign (non-cancerous), but, rarely, they may be cancerous.
At Welbeck, our gynaecologists at our Women’s Health centre offer expert care and treatment of ovarian cysts in modern, comfortable surroundings.
There are 4 main types of ovarian cysts:
Functional cysts
These are the most common types of ovarian cysts, and form as part of the process of making and releasing an egg. They are normally less than 3cm in size and typically do not cause any symptoms or need treatment. These cysts can cause pain if they rupture or have bleeding into themselves. Functional cysts are much less common in women using the combined pill for contraception.
Dermoid cysts
These are relatively common cysts that often do not cause symptoms unless they get quite large. They have very typical features on ultrasound and often contain different tissue types, such as hair and teeth.
Endometriomas
Women with endometriosis of the ovaries can develop ‘chocolate’ cysts (so called because the cyst is filled with old blood, which looks like melted chocolate).
Other types of benign cysts can form because of the production of fluid or mucus within the ovary. These almost always need treatment as they tend to grow over time and don’t go away on their own.
Malignant (cancerous) cysts
Unlike benign ovarian cysts, ovarian cancer cysts are malignant tumours that contain cancer cells. They are rare under the age of 50 but become more common after menopause.
More information
Small ovarian cysts don’t usually cause any symptoms, but if your ovarian cyst is large, you may experience:
pelvic pain
pain during sex
bloating or discomfort
difficulty emptying your bowels
needing to urinate frequently
changes to your periods – such as heavy periods, irregular periods or lighter periods than normal
Most ovarian cysts are caused by normal hormonal fluctuations during your menstrual cycle and often occur during ovulation (when your follicle releases an egg). They may develop when your ovary doesn't release an egg or reseals after releasing one.
Other causes of ovarian cysts include:
endometriosis
pregnancy
pelvic infections
At your initial consultation, you’ll be seen by a consultant gynaecologist. They’ll ask you about your symptoms, general health, family and medical history and any medications you take regularly. They may also perform a physical examination.
Your gynaecologist may order some tests to confirm or rule out a diagnosis and determine the type of ovarian cyst you have. These may include:
pelvic ultrasound
blood tests
MRI
CT scan
Your consultant will make a diagnosis using a combination of your symptoms, physical examination and test results. They’ll explain your diagnosis to you and create a personalised treatment plan that best suits your needs.
Most ovarian cysts are linked to normal ovulation and can’t be prevented; however, hormonal birth control such as the contraceptive pill can prevent new cysts from forming by stopping ovulation.
Most ovarian cysts are not serious, don’t cause symptoms and usually go away on their own.
However, in rare cases, an ovarian cyst can cause serious complications and require emergency treatment.
Possible complications of an ovarian cyst include:
ovarian torsion – this occurs when a cyst causes your ovary to twist, cutting off the blood supply. Symptoms include sudden, severe abdominal pain, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting
rupture – the cyst can burst and release its contents into your abdomen, possibly leading to internal bleeding. Symptoms include a sudden, sharp pain in your abdomen, dizziness, and fainting
internal bleeding – some ovarian cysts can bleed internally, even without rupturing. Symptoms include abdominal pain, dizziness and weakness
Treatment will depend on the type and size of your cyst, your symptoms and whether you have been through menopause.
Treatment for ovarian cysts includes:
watchful waiting – this involves having regular check-ups and ultrasound scans to monitor your cyst for any changes
medication – your consultant may recommend hormonal birth control to prevent future cysts from developing
surgery – malignant ovarian cysts and some types of benign cysts need to be removed surgically
At Welbeck, our gynaecologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.
With access to colleagues across other specialities, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.
All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.
Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.
Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.
Get in touch today to book an appointment.
Our specialists
Mr Gregory PremetisConsultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Mr Tom HollandConsultant Gynaecologist- Mr Emeka OkaroConsultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, & Reproductive Medicine Specialist
Dr Shahla AhmedConsultant Gynaecologist
Ms Claudine DomoneyConsultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Miss Lisa WebberConsultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, & Reproductive Medicine Specialist
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Frequently asked questions
Most ovarian cysts are not dangerous and go away on their own without treatment; however, in some cases, an ovarian cyst can twist or burst, which is a medical emergency. Go straight to A&E or call an ambulance if you have sudden, severe pelvic pain, especially on one side, that may be accompanied by weakness, dizziness, vomiting, rapid breathing or heavy bleeding.
In rare cases, an ovarian cyst may become malignant (cancerous). This is more common if you’ve been through the menopause. Your gynaecologist may recommend regular blood tests and ultrasound scans if you are at risk of developing a malignant ovarian cyst.
It depends on the type and cause of your ovarian cyst. Most small ovarian cysts go away on their own without treatment, while large or malignant cysts need to be removed with surgery. Your gynaecologist will advise you on the best treatment options for you based on your diagnosis and symptoms.
If you have pelvic pain from your ovarian cyst, you can take over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication before taking it and ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.
A heating pad or warm bath, gentle stretching, and relaxation techniques such as deep breathing can also help with pelvic pain.
If your pain is sudden, severe or getting worse, seek immediate medical attention.
It’s unlikely that you will lose weight after surgery to remove an ovarian cyst, but you might feel less bloated and have a flatter belly afterwards. This is because ovarian cysts can cause your abdomen to swell and cause discomfort and bloating.