Ovarian cysts are closed, sac-like structures that develop in ovarian tissue and contain fluid, blood or semisolid material.

From a medical perspective:

• they often develop from ovarian follicles that do not rupture or reabsorb properly during the menstrual cycle

• they may have thin walls (simple cysts) or more complex contents (complex cysts)

• they vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters

Main types

• Functional cysts → related to ovulation (the most common and usually harmless)

• Dermoid cysts → contain tissue such as hair or fat

• Endometriomas → associated with endometriosis

• Cystadenomas → develop from the surface of the ovary

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Ovarian cysts often cause no symptoms, especially when they are small. When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Pelvic or abdominal pain – dull, intermittent or sudden

• Abdominal swelling or pressure

• Irregular periods – delays, heavy bleeding or spotting

• Pain during sex

• A feeling of heaviness or fullness in the pelvic area

• In rare cases, nausea, vomiting or fainting if a cyst ruptures or causes ovarian torsion

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Ovarian cysts resolve on their own in most cases, but treatment depends on their type, size and symptoms, as well as the patient’s age.

1. Monitoring and follow-up

• Small functional cysts often disappear on their own within a few menstrual cycles

• The doctor may recommend periodic follow-up ultrasounds

2. Medication

• Oral contraceptives: may prevent new functional cysts from forming

• Pain relievers: to ease pain or discomfort

3. Surgery

• May be needed if the cyst is large, painful, persistent or suspected to be malignant

• Types of surgery:

  • Laparoscopy → minimally invasive removal

  • Laparotomy → for more complex cases

4. Treatment for specific cysts

• Endometriomas: may require medication for endometriosis or surgery

• Dermoid cysts or cystadenomas: often removed surgically