Your Ovarian Cyst Questions, Answered

At The Gabrielson Clinic for Women, we understand that hearing the words "ovarian cyst" can be a little unsettling. But the good news is, ovarian cysts are incredibly common, and most of the time, they're completely harmless. Our goal is to help you feel informed, reassured, and empowered when it comes to your reproductive health.

Let’s take a closer look at what ovarian cysts are, why they form, and what you can expect if you're diagnosed with one.

What Is an Ovarian Cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a small, fluid-filled sac that can form in or on an ovary. Every woman has two ovaries, one on each side of the uterus, and these organs play an important role in ovulation and hormone production. Many cysts develop as a normal part of the menstrual cycle and go away on their own without causing any symptoms.

While the word “cyst” may sound scary, the vast majority are benign (non-cancerous) and don’t lead to long-term problems.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

There are several types of ovarian cysts. Most fall into two main categories: functional cysts and other, less common cysts.

Functional Cysts (Most Common)

These form during your normal menstrual cycle and usually go away on their own within a couple of months.

• Follicular Cysts: These occur when a follicle (the sac that holds an egg) doesn’t release the egg as expected. Instead, it fills with fluid.
• Corpus Luteum Cysts: After the follicle releases an egg, it usually shrinks. If it doesn’t, it can fill with fluid and become a cyst.

These types of cysts are actually a sign that your body is doing what it’s supposed to during ovulation.

Other Types of Ovarian Cysts

These types are not related to your menstrual cycle and may need closer monitoring:

• Dermoid Cysts: These contain tissue like hair or skin and are present from birth, though they may not be discovered until later in life.
• Cystadenomas: These grow on the surface of the ovary and are filled with watery or mucus-like fluid.
• Endometriomas: Also called "chocolate cysts," these form when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often associated with endometriosis. This is because the fluid-filled cysts, which are the result of endometriosis, contain old blood that appears dark brown or even chocolate-like.
• Polycystic Ovaries (PCOS): A condition in which the ovaries produce many small cysts due to hormonal imbalance.
• Ovarian Cancer Cysts: These are rare but can be serious. They are more likely to occur after menopause and usually contain solid material.

What Causes Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts can form for many reasons:

• Natural hormone fluctuations during your menstrual cycle (the most common cause)
• Hormonal imbalances (such as with PCOS)
• Endometriosis
• Pregnancy (sometimes cysts form early in pregnancy)
• Pelvic infections that spread to the ovaries
• Use of fertility medications

Symptoms: How Do You Know if You Have One?

In many cases, you may not feel a thing. Many cysts cause no symptoms and are found only during a routine pelvic exam or ultrasound.

However, larger or persistent cysts may cause:

• Pelvic pain or pressure
• A bloated feeling or fullness in your lower belly
• Pain during intercourse
• Irregular or painful periods
• Needing to urinate more often or difficulty with bowel movements

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen, it’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Most cysts are nothing to worry about. However, there are a few warning signs to look out for:

• Sudden, severe pelvic pain
• Pain accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting
• Dizziness or weakness
• Rapid breathing or cold, clammy skin

These could be signs of a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion (when a cyst causes the ovary to twist), both of which need immediate medical attention.

How Are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed?

If your provider suspects an ovarian cyst, they may recommend:

• Pelvic exam: To check for swelling or tenderness.
• Ultrasound: To look at the size, shape, and makeup of the cyst (fluid-filled, solid, or mixed).
• Blood tests: To check for pregnancy or rule out more serious conditions.
• Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to see the cyst directly and, if necessary, remove it.

Treatment Options

Most ovarian cysts don’t require treatment and will resolve on their own. However, treatment depends on the type, size, and whether it’s causing symptoms.

Watchful Waiting

For many women, the best approach is simply to keep an eye on the cyst. Your provider may recommend a follow-up ultrasound in a few weeks or months.

Medications

Hormonal birth control pills may be prescribed to help prevent future cysts from forming.

Surgery

If a cyst is large, persistent, painful, or suspicious for cancer, your provider may recommend surgical removal. Options include:

• Laparoscopic surgery: Minimally invasive and often used for smaller cysts.
• Laparotomy: A larger incision, used for bigger or potentially cancerous cysts.

Can Ovarian Cysts Be Prevented?

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cysts, but taking hormonal birth control can reduce the chances of forming functional cysts. The most important thing you can do is stay in tune with your body and see your provider for regular pelvic exams.

What’s the Outlook?

The outlook for most ovarian cysts is excellent. In most cases, they go away on their own. If you do need treatment, your healthcare team will guide you through every step of the process.

At The Gabrielson Clinic for Women, we're here to answer your questions, monitor your health, and provide compassionate, expert care. If you have concerns about pelvic pain, irregular periods, or anything else that seems unusual, don’t hesitate to reach out.

When to Call Us

Please give us a call and schedule an appointment if you experience:

• Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
• Irregular or missed periods
• Pain during intercourse
• Bloating or abdominal fullness
• Any sudden or severe pain

We’re always here to help you feel comfortable, supported, and in control of your health.

Caring For You, Every Step of the Way

Remember, understanding your body is key to maintaining good health. While ovarian cysts are a common part of many women's lives, knowing the signs, symptoms, and when to seek medical attention can bring peace of mind. At The Gabrielson Clinic for Women, we are committed to providing you with the information and support you need to navigate your reproductive health journey with confidence.