Kulsum International Hospital

Ovarian Cysts

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Symptoms
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Most ovarian cysts are harmless and go away on their own. Some types need monitoring or surgery, especially if they are large, painful or have unusual features.

Symptoms

  • Usually no symptoms
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Bloating
  • Pain during sex
  • Irregular periods
  • Sudden severe pain if a cyst bursts or twists

Causes and risk factors

Most are functional cysts linked to the menstrual cycle. Others include endometriomas, dermoid cysts and cystadenomas. Rarely, they can be cancerous.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis uses a pelvic ultrasound and sometimes blood tests such as CA-125.

Treatment

Treatment may be monitoring, hormonal contraceptives or keyhole surgery to remove the cyst.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor for persistent pelvic pain or bloating. Seek emergency care for sudden severe pelvic pain with vomiting or fainting.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.