Dr Mohamed Otify, Consultant Gynaecologist and Gynaecological Oncologist, provides specialist assessment and minimally invasive treatment for ovarian cysts — from routine monitoring to robotic and laparoscopic surgery.

 Most cysts are harmless and resolve on their own, but when they cause pain or complications, timely specialist care ensures the best outcome.

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can form inside or around the ovary.
They are very common and often disappear naturally without treatment.
However, some cysts can persist, grow, or cause symptoms that need further investigation.

When cysts enlarge or interfere with nearby organs, you may experience:

• Pelvic or lower-abdominal pain
   
• Irregular or heavy periods
   
• Bloating or a feeling of fullness
   
• Frequent urination or bowel-habit changes
   
• Fatigue, dizziness, or light-headedness
   

Seek medical advice if these symptoms persist or suddenly worsen — particularly if you experience fever, vomiting, or severe abdominal pain.

• Ovarian torsion: A large cyst can cause the ovary to twist, cutting off blood supply and leading to sudden, severe pain, nausea, or vomiting — a surgical emergency.
   
• Ruptured cyst: A cyst may burst, causing sharp pain or internal bleeding.
   
• Cancerous change: Cysts appearing after menopause have a slightly higher chance of being cancerous and should always be assessed.
   

Immediate medical help is essential for severe or sudden pelvic pain.

Diagnosis usually involves:

• Pelvic examination to feel for swelling or tenderness
   
• Transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound to confirm size and type of cyst
   
• Blood tests to evaluate hormone levels or tumour markers such as CA125
   
• Further imaging (MRI or CT) if the cyst appears complex or suspicious
   

Many cysts can be safely monitored with follow-up scans after a few months.
If the cyst grows, persists, or causes symptoms, your consultant may recommend surgery.

• Laparoscopy (Keyhole Surgery):
  A thin camera is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to view and remove the cyst. Recovery is quick, and scarring is minimal.
   
• Laparotomy:
  Used for very large or complex cysts, involving a slightly larger incision to safely remove the mass.
   

Whenever possible, Dr Otify performs minimally invasive or robotic-assisted cyst removal (ovarian cystectomy) for faster healing and excellent cosmetic results.

See your GP or gynaecologist if you have:

• Persistent pelvic pain or bloating
   
• Sudden severe abdominal pain
   
• A cyst diagnosed on scan that is not resolving
   

Early review ensures safe monitoring and timely treatment if needed.

To discuss symptoms or arrange a private ultrasound and consultation, book an appointment with Dr Mohamed Otify for personalised assessment and care.