Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms, Causes and When to See a Gynaecologist
Understanding Ovarian Cysts
Being told you have an ovarian cyst can understandably be worrying. Many women immediately fear the worst, but in reality, ovarian cysts are extremely common and most are harmless. Many cause no symptoms at all and disappear naturally without treatment.
However, some ovarian cysts can cause pain, irregular bleeding or other symptoms that affect your quality of life. In some cases, they may require further investigation or treatment to rule out more serious conditions.
At Harley Street Gynaecology, our experienced consultants provide expert assessment, advanced ultrasound scanning and personalised treatment plans to help you understand your diagnosis and determine whether any treatment is necessary.
What Is an Ovarian Cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or inside an ovary. Women have two ovaries, one on each side of the uterus, producing eggs and hormones including oestrogen and progesterone.
Most ovarian cysts are harmless and often disappear naturally without treatment. Some are only a few millimetres across, while others can grow several centimetres.
If you're experiencing pelvic pain or have been told you have an ovarian cyst, a consultation with one of our consultant gynaecologists in London can provide reassurance and an accurate diagnosis.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
Functional Cysts
- Follicular cysts
- Corpus luteum cysts
These are the most common ovarian cysts and usually resolve naturally.
Other Types
- Dermoid cysts
- Endometriomas
- Cystadenomas
- Complex ovarian cysts
Women diagnosed with endometriomas may also require assessment for endometriosis and other underlying gynaecological conditions.
What Causes Ovarian Cysts?
Many ovarian cysts form naturally during ovulation, while others develop due to underlying conditions.
- Endometriosis
- Hormonal imbalance
- Pregnancy
- Previous ovarian cysts
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Certain fertility treatments
Having one ovarian cyst does not necessarily mean you will develop more in the future, although recurrence can occur.
Symptoms of an Ovarian Cyst
Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and are discovered during a routine pelvic ultrasound.
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Bloating or fullness
- Pain during sex
- Painful periods
- Irregular bleeding
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty emptying the bowel
- Abdominal swelling
When Should You See a Gynaecologist?
- Persistent pelvic pain
- Recurrent bloating
- Pain during intercourse
- Heavy or irregular bleeding
- Rapidly enlarging abdomen
- Persistent symptoms
Women after the menopause should always seek specialist assessment.
Emergency Symptoms
Although uncommon, some ovarian cysts can rupture or twist (ovarian torsion), requiring urgent medical attention.
- Sudden severe pelvic pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or fainting
- Fever
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
Diagnosis
Your consultant may recommend:
- Pelvic examination
- Transvaginal ultrasound scan
- Blood tests including CA125 when appropriate
- MRI scan if required
Learn more about our private gynaecology consultations in London.
Treatment Options
Conservative Monitoring
Many simple ovarian cysts disappear naturally and only require repeat ultrasound scans.
Medication
Pain relief may help manage symptoms while hormonal contraception may reduce future functional cysts.
Laparoscopic Surgery
- Large cysts
- Persistent cysts
- Complex cysts
- Severe symptoms
- Suspected ovarian torsion
Where appropriate, minimally invasive surgery such as our scarless gynaecological surgery techniques may be discussed.
Fertility & Cancer Risk
Most ovarian cysts do not affect fertility and are not cancerous.
Some underlying conditions, including endometriosis or PCOS, can influence fertility, making specialist assessment important.
Book a Consultation
You should arrange an appointment if you have:
- Persistent pelvic pain
- Irregular bleeding
- Bloating
- Pain during sex
- A suspected ovarian cyst
- An abnormal ultrasound result
Our experienced female gynaecologists in London provide expert diagnosis, ultrasound assessment and personalised treatment plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can stress cause ovarian cysts?
No, although stress may influence hormone levels and menstrual cycles.
How long do ovarian cysts last?
Many functional cysts resolve naturally within a few months.
Can ovarian cysts burst?
Yes. Ruptured cysts can cause sudden pain and sometimes require urgent medical assessment.
Is exercise safe?
Light exercise is usually safe, although women with large or painful cysts should seek medical advice.
Can ovarian cysts return?
Yes. Some women develop recurrent ovarian cysts depending on the underlying cause.
Concerned About an Ovarian Cyst?
Whether you've recently been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst or are experiencing pelvic pain, bloating or irregular bleeding, our experienced consultant gynaecologists provide prompt assessment, expert diagnosis and personalised treatment in the heart of London's Harley Street medical district.
