Ovarian Cyst(s)

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A cyst is a fluid filled sac that can develop in any area of the body. Ovarian cysts can develop in or around your ovaries.

Quite often they are benign (non-cancerous) and cause no symptoms. Left untreated they often disappear on their own.

If ovarian cysts continue to grow or block blood supply to your ovaries, you may experience symptoms such as:

• Pelvic pain
• Altered bowel habits
• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Feeling full or bloated
• Increase in need to urinate
• Fatigue
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
  

See your gynaecology consultant if any of these symptoms persist or if you develop fever, vomiting or severe abdominal pain. Your GP will probably refer you to a Gynaecologist for diagnosis and treatment.

What are the complications of an ovarian cyst?

• Cancerous cyst. Ovarian cysts that develop after menopause are more likely to be cancerous than cysts that form before menopause.
• Ruptured ovarian cyst. Functional cysts commonly rupture without causing any negative symptoms. But sometimes, a ruptured cyst can cause severe pain and swelling in your belly. The larger it is, the greater likelihood it has of breaking.
• Ovarian torsion. Cysts can grow so big that they distort the shape of your ovary, increasing the likelihood that it’ll twist. The twisting can prevent blood flow to your ovary, causing it to die. Extreme pain, nausea and vomiting are all signs of ovarian torsion.

Seek medical assistance right away if you’re experiencing the symptoms of a ruptured ovarian cyst or ovarian torsion.

Your consultant may perform a vaginal examination to see if they can feel any abnormal growth or swelling around your ovaries. You may need to have a gynaecological ultrasound to confirm the size, location the consistency of any cyst. They may also order blood tests to confirm if the cyst is a result of hormone levels, endometriosis or fibroids.

Many women are advised to wait and have another examination in a few months to check if there are changes to the cyst. However, if the cyst is large or continues to cause symptoms your consultant may recommend surgery (Ovarian Cystectomy). Your surgical procedure will depend on the size and nature of your ovarian cyst. 

• Laparoscopy: This is a procedure where your provider inserts a small camera through a small incision in your abdomen. They view your reproductive organs and pelvic cavity using the device. The ovarian cyst can be removed through tiny incisions (ovarian cystectomy).
• Laparotomy: Your provider may perform this procedure if the cyst is very large or if there are other concerns.