Ovarian Cyst: Symptoms, Tests and Treatment

An ovarian cyst is one of the most common reasons women in Bangladesh visit a gynaecologist, and the diagnosis often causes far more fear than it should. A cyst is simply a fluid-filled sac on or inside the ovary, and the great majority are harmless, painless, and disappear without any treatment. Understanding which cysts are normal, which need watching, and which require surgery can save you from both needless worry and unnecessary operations.

What is an ovarian cyst?

The ovaries are two small organs that release an egg each month and produce female hormones. During this monthly cycle, small fluid-filled sacs called functional cysts form naturally and usually melt away within a few weeks. These are not a disease. Other cysts, such as dermoid cysts, endometriomas (linked to endometriosis), or cysts seen in polycystic ovary syndrome, may persist and sometimes need treatment. Cysts can appear at any age but are most common during the childbearing years.

What are the symptoms and warning signs?

Many cysts cause no symptoms at all and are found by chance during an ultrasound. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• A dull ache or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvis, often on one side.
• Irregular, heavier or more painful periods.
• Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the lower belly.
• Pain during intercourse or while passing stool.
• Needing to pass urine more often.

Sudden, severe lower-abdominal pain with vomiting or fainting is a danger sign, as it can mean the cyst has twisted or burst. This needs emergency care without delay.

What causes ovarian cysts?

Most cysts form as a normal part of ovulation when a follicle does not release its egg or does not shrink afterwards. Hormonal imbalance, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis and, rarely, abnormal cell growth can also lead to cysts. Cysts are very common before menopause; after menopause they are less common and are looked at more carefully because the small risk of something serious rises with age.

How is a cyst diagnosed?

A pelvic ultrasound is the main test and shows the size of the cyst, whether it is filled with simple fluid or has solid parts, and whether it is likely to be harmless. Your doctor may repeat the scan after six to eight weeks to see if a functional cyst has cleared on its own. In selected cases a blood test such as CA-125 is added, but this can be raised by many harmless conditions and is never used alone to make a diagnosis. A registered gynaecologist will interpret these results together; you can find one through our list of registered doctors.

What are the treatment options?

Treatment depends entirely on the type and size of the cyst and your age and symptoms. Most simple functional cysts need only watchful waiting with a repeat scan. For painful periods or PCOS-related cysts, doctors sometimes prescribe hormonal treatment; simple pain can be eased with a common painkiller such as paracetamol, which you can look up in our medicine directory. Surgery is reserved for cysts that are large, growing, causing severe pain, look suspicious on the scan, or have twisted or ruptured. When surgery is needed, keyhole (laparoscopic) removal often allows the healthy ovary to be preserved. Never start hormonal pills on your own; if a doctor gives you a prescription, you can keep a clear copy using our free prescription tool.

When should you see a doctor?

See a gynaecologist if you have ongoing pelvic pain, periods that have become irregular or much heavier, unexplained bloating, or a cyst that was found on a scan and needs follow-up. Seek emergency care immediately for sudden severe lower-abdominal pain, fever with pelvic pain, fainting, or pain with vomiting, as these can signal a twisted or ruptured cyst. Any new ovarian cyst after menopause should always be checked by a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ovarian cysts cancerous?

The vast majority are completely benign, especially in younger women. Only a small fraction turn out to be cancerous, and these are more likely after menopause. An ultrasound and your doctor's assessment help tell harmless cysts from the few that need closer attention.

Can an ovarian cyst affect my ability to get pregnant?

Most simple cysts do not affect fertility at all. Cysts linked to endometriosis or PCOS can sometimes make conceiving harder, but many such women still become pregnant, often with treatment. Discuss your plans with your gynaecologist.

Do ovarian cysts go away on their own?

Yes. Functional cysts, which are the most common type, usually disappear within one or two menstrual cycles without any medicine. That is why doctors often simply repeat an ultrasound after a few weeks instead of treating right away.

Will I always need surgery for an ovarian cyst?

No. Surgery is needed only for a minority of cysts. Most are managed by watchful waiting or simple measures, and you can read more in our collection of health tips.

This article is for general health education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice; please consult a qualified doctor about your own situation.