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Ovarian cysts
The formation of fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries. While most are benign and resolve on their own, some can cause symptoms or require treatment.
About ovarian cysts
The ovaries play a vital role in the female reproductive system. Not only do they release eggs every 28 days or so, they also release certain hormones which are key to reproduction. The ovaries can often develop cysts, or fluid-filled sacs and usually only causes symptoms if it splits (ruptures), is very large or twists and then blocks the blood supply to the ovaries.
In these cases, you may experience symptoms including:
- pelvic pain – this can range from a dull, heavy sensation to a sudden, severe and sharp pain
- pain during sex
- difficulty emptying your bowels
- a frequent need to urinate
- heavy periods, irregular periods or lighter periods than normal
- bloating and a swollen tummy
- feeling very full after only eating a little
- difficulty getting pregnant – although fertility is usually unaffected by ovarian cysts
If you have symptoms of an ovarian cyst you can see a GP or Gynaecologist who can investigate your symptoms.
Investigating your symptoms
Diagnosing ovarian cysts
If your GP or consultant suspect you may have ovarian cysts, you will probably be referred for an ultrasound scan.
If a cyst is identified during the scan, you may need to have this monitored with a repeat ultrasound scan in a few weeks, your GP may refer you to a gynaecologist who specialises in female reproductive health.
If there's any concern that your cyst could be cancerous, the doctor will also arrange blood tests to look for high levels of chemicals that can indicate ovarian cancer, and refer you to an oncology gynaecologist. If your investigations show high levels, it does not necessarily mean you have cancer, high levels can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, such as:
- endometriosis
- a pelvic infection
- fibroids
- your menstrual cycle
Our Ovarian cysts locations
Women’s Health Centre
27-29 Harley Street W1G 9QP London
Lister Fertility Clinic at The Shard
The Shard Outpatients St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Harborne Hospital
Mindelsohn Way B15 2TQ Birmingham
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road SW1W 8RH London
The Portland Hospital
205-209 Great Portland Street W1W 5AH London
The Wellington Hospital
8A Wellington Place St John's Wood NW8 9LE London
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.