Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on or inside the ovaries. Most women will develop at least one ovarian cyst during their lifetime. While many are harmless and go away on their own, others can cause pain, hormonal imbalance, and fertility issues.
Understanding the causes of ovarian cysts is key to early detection, prevention, and treatment. In this guide, we’ll cover the different types of cysts, their causes, symptoms, risks, and how to manage them effectively.
What Are Ovarian Cysts?
An ovarian cyst is a sac filled with fluid or semi-solid material that grows on or inside an ovary. Most are benign (non-cancerous) and often develop during ovulation. However, some may become large, painful, or affect your fertility.
Cysts are especially common among women of reproductive age (15–49), though they can occur at any stage of life, including postmenopause.
Main Types of Ovarian Cysts
- Functional cysts: The most common type. They form during the menstrual cycle and usually go away on their own.
- Follicular cyst: Occurs when the follicle fails to release the egg and keeps growing.
- Corpus luteum cyst: Forms after the egg is released and the follicle seals up, sometimes filling with fluid.
- Dermoid cyst: Contains tissue like hair or skin. Often congenital and non-cancerous.
- Endometriomas: Linked to endometriosis, these cysts form when endometrial tissue attaches to the ovary.
- Cystadenomas: Develop from ovarian tissue and can become large and painful.
Common Causes of Ovarian Cysts
There are several underlying reasons why ovarian cysts may form. Some are natural, while others are linked to hormone imbalances or health conditions.
1. Hormonal Imbalances
Irregular levels of estrogen and progesterone may disrupt ovulation, leading to cyst development. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are especially prone to multiple cysts due to chronic hormone imbalance.
2. Ovulation Issues
When an egg isn’t released properly during ovulation, a follicle may continue to grow, creating a cyst. This is common during puberty or perimenopause.
3. Endometriosis
Endometriosis causes uterine tissue to grow outside the uterus. When it affects the ovaries, it can lead to painful cysts called endometriomas.
4. Pelvic Infections
Severe pelvic infections that spread to the ovaries or fallopian tubes may cause abscesses or cyst-like structures filled with pus.
5. Pregnancy
Sometimes, a cyst forms during early pregnancy to support the pregnancy until the placenta forms. These typically go away on their own, but some may persist and grow.
6. Previous Ovarian Cysts
If you've had ovarian cysts before, you're more likely to develop them again—especially if the root cause wasn't addressed.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Most cysts are small and asymptomatic. But some cause noticeable symptoms:
- Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis (especially on one side)
- Fullness or pressure in the abdomen
- Pain during intercourse
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Bloating or nausea
- Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
Severe symptoms like sudden pelvic pain, fever, or dizziness may indicate a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion—both are medical emergencies.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any of the following, schedule an appointment with your gynaecologist:
- Persistent pelvic pain
- Changes in your menstrual cycle
- Pain during intercourse or bowel movements
- Difficulty conceiving
Doctors may perform pelvic exams, ultrasounds, and hormone tests to confirm cysts and rule out more serious issues like ovarian cancer.
How Are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed?
- Pelvic exam: Detects abnormalities in the ovaries
- Ultrasound: Visualises the size, type, and structure of the cyst
- Blood tests: Check hormone levels or tumour markers like CA-125
- Laparoscopy: A surgical option to view and remove cysts if needed
Treatment Options
- Watchful waiting: Most cysts resolve on their own in 1–3 months
- Birth control pills: Regulate hormones and prevent new cysts
- Pain relievers: Manage mild discomfort
- Surgery: If the cyst is large, persistent, or suspicious
Explore our article on early signs of pregnancy, as some symptoms can overlap with ovarian cysts.
Can Ovarian Cysts Be Prevented?
While not all cysts can be prevented, the following steps may reduce your risk:
- Maintain a regular menstrual cycle with hormonal birth control (if prescribed)
- Track your ovulation and symptoms with an app or diary
- Schedule annual pelvic exams
- Treat infections early
- Manage chronic conditions like PCOS with your doctor
FAQs
Q: Are ovarian cysts cancerous?
A: Most are benign. However, cysts in postmenopausal women may have a higher risk of malignancy and should be evaluated.
Q: Do ovarian cysts affect fertility?
A: Some types—especially endometriomas or cysts from PCOS—can impact ovulation and fertility. Others don’t affect fertility at all.
Q: Can you get pregnant with an ovarian cyst?
A: Yes. Many women conceive and carry pregnancies despite cysts. However, monitoring may be needed.
Final Thoughts
Ovarian cysts are incredibly common and often harmless. But when persistent, painful, or irregular, they deserve medical attention. Knowing the causes of ovarian cysts can help you take proactive steps toward better reproductive health.
Be curious about your body, ask questions, and don’t ignore symptoms—your health is worth it.
For more women’s health topics, visit our guide to preventing skin cancer and maintaining full-body wellness.