Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries of women. They are usually harmless and go away on their own, but in some cases, they can cause complications.

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about ovarian cysts.

What are ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on a woman’s ovaries. They can be small or large, and in most cases, they are harmless.

Ovarian cysts usually go away on their own without any treatment, but some may require medical attention, especially if they cause symptoms or complications.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts?

Most ovarian cysts do not cause any symptoms, but in some cases, they can cause the following:.

Pelvic pain or discomfort
Bloating or swelling in the abdomen
Pressure or pain in the lower abdomen
Painful periods
Pain during sex
Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels
Increased need to urinate
Irregular periods
Infertility

What causes ovarian cysts?

There are several possible causes of ovarian cysts, including:.

Hormonal problems
Endometriosis
Pregnancy
Previous ovarian cysts
Pelvic infections
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Primary ovarian insufficiency
Tumors

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

Ovarian cysts are usually diagnosed during a routine pelvic exam. If the doctor suspects an ovarian cyst, they may order the following tests:.

Ultrasound
CT scan or MRI
Blood tests
Pregnancy test

What are the treatments for ovarian cysts?

In most cases, ovarian cysts do not require any treatment and will go away on their own. However, if the cyst is large, causing symptoms, or does not go away on its own, the doctor may recommend one of the following treatments:.

Watchful waiting
Birth control pills
Laparoscopy
Laparotomy
Oophorectomy

Can ovarian cysts be prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent ovarian cysts, but the following measures may reduce the risk of developing them:.

Using birth control pills
Having regular pelvic exams
Maintaining a healthy weight
Managing PCOS

When should you see a doctor?

You should see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:.

Severe pelvic pain
Fever
Vomiting
Faintness or dizziness
Rapid breathing

These symptoms may indicate a ruptured cyst, which requires immediate medical attention.

The Bottom Line

Ovarian cysts are usually harmless and go away on their own, but in some cases, they can cause complications. It is important to see a doctor if you experience symptoms, or if you are concerned about the risk of developing ovarian cysts.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, most ovarian cysts can be managed effectively.