Ovarian cysts: Diagnosis and Understanding

Dr Deepika Tiwari
Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Sohna Road, Gurgaon
Ph: 09911821669
Apollo Clinic, "Cradle" Sec 14, Gurgaon



Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs within or on the surface of an ovary. Many women have ovarian cysts at some time during their lives. Most ovarian cysts present little or no discomfort and are harmless. The majority of ovarian cysts disappear without treatment within a few months. Ovarian cysts — especially those that have ruptured — sometimes produce serious symptoms. 

The symptoms of ovarian cysts, if present, may include:

• Menstrual irregularities
• Pelvic pain — a constant or intermittent dull ache that may radiate to your lower back and thighs
• Pelvic pain shortly before your period begins or just before it ends
• Pelvic pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Pain during bowel movements or pressure on your bowels
• Nausea, vomiting or breast tenderness similar to that experienced during pregnancy
• Fullness or heaviness in your abdomen
• Pressure on your rectum or bladder that causes a need to urinate more frequently or difficulty emptying your bladder completely.

Infrequent complications associated with ovarian cysts include:

• Ovarian torsion. Cysts that become large may cause the ovary to move out of its usual position in the pelvis. This increases the chance of painful twisting of your ovary, called ovarian torsion.
• Rupture. A cyst that ruptures may cause severe pain and lead to internal bleeding.

To identify the type of cyst, your doctor may perform the following procedures:

Pregnancy test

Pelvic ultrasound

Laparoscopy

CA 125 blood test

The treatment depends upon the type/ stage of the cyst; or the presence of complications.