An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on an ovary. They’re very common and do not usually cause any symptoms. Most ovarian cysts occur naturally and go away in a few months without needing any treatment.

The ovaries

The ovaries are 2 almond-shaped organs that are part of the female reproductive system. There’s 1 on each side of the womb (uterus).

The ovaries have 2 main functions:

  • to release an egg approximately every 28 days as part of the menstrual cycle
  • to release the sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone, which play an important role in reproduction

Ovarian cysts may affect both ovaries at the same time, or they may only affect 1.

Symptoms of an ovarian cyst

An ovarian cyst usually only causes symptoms if it splits (ruptures), is very large or blocks the blood supply to the ovaries.

In these cases, you may have:

  • 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
Read more