Ovarian cyst

An ovarian cyst is one of the most common female pathologies. It is diagnosed in 30-50% of women of reproductive age and in 6-15% of women after menopause. In most cases, these formations do not cause significant problems and disappear on their own over time. However, there are cases when the appearance of an ovarian cyst can be accompanied by painful symptoms and provoke health risks. For example, an ovarian cyst may rupture, which creates a life-threatening situation. Additionally, some types of these neoplasms can become malignant. Therefore, it is important to conduct an accurate diagnosis and, if necessary, undergo treatment when they are detected.

What is a cyst in an ovary and why is it dangerous?

An ovarian cyst is a benign growth, that is essentially a sac filled with liquid content. There are different types of neoplasms that relate to this pathology. The formation can develop either inside the ovary or be located on it. Functional ovarian cysts and true ovarian cysts may occur, and each of these types has its own varieties. An ovarian cyst can be single-chambered, double-chambered, or multi-chambered. It can be small (1-2 centimeters) or grow to a large size (15-20 centimeters).

Are ovarian cysts dangerous? Despite the fact that an ovarian cyst is benign and is not a dangerous disease, its occurrence can pose certain health risks.

An ovarian cyst may:

• compress adjacent organs, thereby disrupting their function;
• provoke hormonal imbalances;
• lead to bleeding;
• twist around its axis, potentially causing inflammation and tissue necrosis;
• rupture, significantly increasing the risk of peritonitis.

In addition, there is a possibility that some types of these formations may transform into malignant forms. Therefore, if symptoms similar to those caused by an ovarian cyst appear, it is important to consult a doctor and undergo an examination. This will help accurately diagnose the condition and determine the specific type of ovarian cyst in your case. Afterward, the doctor will decide on the most suitable course of action.

On the MedTour platform you can find a clinic where you can undergo treatment for gynecological diseases of varying degrees of complexity and use the most advanced and effective treatment methods.

What causes ovarian cysts?

The formation of an ovarian cyst can have various reasons. These growths may periodically appear and disappear during hormonal fluctuations associated with the menstrual cycle in healthy women. In such cases, a functional cyst is diagnosed. Its occurrence is associated with fluctuations in luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones. This type of neoplasm typically does not require serious concern and it often resolves on its own. There are other types of cystic formations whose appearance may be associated with different factors.

Factors that can increase the risk of ovarian cysts include:

• hormonal imbalances;
• use of hormonal medications;
• hypothyroidism;
• endometriosis;
• genetic predisposition;
• chronic diseases of the reproductive system;
• artificial stimulation of ovulation;
• late menopause.

The risk of cyst formation also increases after surgeries on the fallopian tubes. Additionally, if a woman has previously been diagnosed with this pathology, the likelihood of recurrence remains high over time. In each case, it is necessary to find out what causes ovarian cysts and whether these growths pose a threat to the woman’s health.

Types of ovarian cysts

Doctors distinguish several types of ovarian cysts:

• Follicular cyst. Refers to functional cysts. This type of neoplasm occurs when a mature follicle does not rupture during ovulation and an egg is not released from it at the right time. If a follicular ovarian cyst develops, there are often no symptoms. However, in cases where it reaches a size of more than 4-5 centimeters, characteristic ovarian cyst symptoms may appear.
• Corpus luteum cyst (luteal or hemorrhagic cyst). Also classified as functional. It forms after ovulation when the follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone necessary for pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum usually dissolves over time. If it does not disappear and fluid accumulates in it. This is how a luteal cyst is formed.
• Endometrioid cyst. In this type, endometrial tissue grows on the surface of the ovary. The result is a capsule filled with thick, dark brown contents. An endometrioid ovarian cyst is considered a manifestation of endometriosis.
• Paraovarian cyst. It develops outside the ovary, between it and the ligaments of the fallopian tubes. Typically, it is single-chambered. If a paraovarian cyst grows to a large size, it can compress the fallopian tube, potentially causing infertility. Complications may include twisting, purulent inflammation, or rupture.
• Dermoid cyst (teratoma). It develops from epithelial cells that were supposed to form other organs, but due to some malfunction ended up in the ovaries. A dermoid cyst contains a jelly-like mass, which may contain hair, fragments of cartilage, or muscle tissue.
• Ovarian cystadenoma. This is a neoplasm that forms from the outer tissues of the ovary. Another name for this pathology is cystic adenoma. Ovarian cystadenoma belongs to the group of tumors that have a cystic structure. This variety can become malignant.

MedTour will help you find experienced specialists who can accurately diagnose your condition and select the optimal treatment using the most effective and advanced methods.

Symptoms and signs of ovarian cyst

In most cases, ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms and are discovered incidentally during an ultrasound examination. However, when the cyst grows increases in size, the following ovarian cyst symptoms may appear:

• discomfort, feeling of heaviness, or pain in the lower abdomen, in the area of the ovaries, or in the lower back;
• discomfort or even pain during sexual intercourse;
• menstrual cycle irregularities, such as excessively heavy or very light bleeding;
• frequent urination;
• abdominal bloating and constipation.

Pain in the lower abdomen can be caused by various reasons, including ovarian cysts. The nature of the pain may indicate that the cause of such pain is due to a cyst. Typically, the pain is dull and aching. Pain manifestations may change when twisting the torso or change body position. Also, the intensity of pain may vary at different periods of the menstrual cycle.

If torsion or rupture occurs, the pain becomes sharp and severe, and general well-being noticeably worsens. If such symptoms appear, immediate medical attention is necessary, as emergency surgery may be required.

MedTour will help you choose a clinic where you can receive high-qualified medical care, make an accurate diagnosis, and undergo treatment using the latest methods.

What is not recommended to do if you have an ovarian cyst?

If a woman is diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, the following are not recommended:

• pump up the press;
• take hot baths;
• visit the solarium;
• sunbathe for a long time;
• massages;
• thermal procedures in the lower abdomen;
• lift heavy objects;
• carry out overly intense physical workouts.

For more detailed information on what you can and cannot do, consult a gynecologist. By understanding the specifics of your condition, the doctor can provide more accurate recommendations and help develop a plan for further action.

Contact a Medtour coordinating doctor to get information about the best gynecological centers in different countries of the world, where you can undergo diagnosis and treatment for gynecological pathologies of varying complexity.

Diagnosis of ovarian cyst

In order to detect a neoplasm and determine its type and characteristics, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination. Diagnosis of ovarian cysts can be carried out using the following methods:

• Ultrasound. Detects a cyst, determines its location and size.
• Laboratory tests. Assess hormonal levels, particularly the level of progesterone and estrogen. Also, in some cases, a CA-125 tumor marker test may be prescribed.
• CT or MRI. Provides detailed information about the size, location, and density of the formation, which makes it possible to more accurately differentiate the disorder.

In some cases, diagnostic laparoscopy with biopsy may be prescribed, but in most cases this invasive diagnostic method is not necessary.

Treatment methods for ovarian cysts

If an ovarian cyst is diagnosed, treatment is selected taking into account the type of neoplasm, its size, growth activity, and whether it causes symptoms or is asymptomatic. The following treatment approaches are commonly used:

Observation

For small, asymptomatic cysts, a watchful waiting approach is most often chosen. In such cases the doctor recommends periodic ultrasound to monitor the condition. For example, if a corpus luteum cyst or follicular cyst is detected, it often resolves on its own within 3-4 months, eliminating the need for treatment.

Medication therapy

Treatment for ovarian cysts may include the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and hormonal medications. However, drug therapy often provides only temporary relief and does not necessarily eliminate the cyst.

Surgical removal of ovarian cyst

What size of ovarian cyst is dangerous and requires removal? A cyst larger than 3-5 centimeters can be considered dangerous, although radical treatment is not always necessary. The doctor might recommend medication therapy or choose active observation tactics for a certain period, and only in certain cases is surgical treatment preferred.

Removal is indicated when:

• conservative therapy is ineffective;
• the cyst is larger than 8-10 centimeters;
• rapid growth of the cyst is observed;
• the cyst compresses surrounding tissues, causing pain and other symptoms;
• a dermoid cyst or cystadenoma is diagnosed.

Additionally, if an ovarian cyst is detected after menopause, this may also be an indication for removal due to the increased risk of ovarian cancer in postmenopausal women. Any new growths during this period warrant careful attention.

An indication for urgent surgical intervention is a ruptured ovarian cyst (apoplexy). If the membrane of the cyst ruptures, its contents flow into the abdominal cavity. Without surgical correction of the condition, this can lead to severe blood loss, peritonitis, sepsis, or even death.

Surgical options for ovarian cyst removal

Several surgical methods can be used for ovarian cyst removal:

• Laparotomy for ovarian cyst. Previously, the standard approach was abdominal surgery,involving an incision in the front wall of the abdomen to access the ovay. Today, preference is given to minimally invasive methods, but in some cases there is still a need to use this technique.
• Laparoscopy for ovarian cyst. This minimally invasive technique involves accessing the surgical site through several small incisions (up to 1 cm) in the abdominal wall. A light source, camera, and surgical instruments are inserted through the incisions. The doctor sees the surgical area and can carry out all manipulations with high precision. In this case, healthy tissues of the body are minimally injured.

Typically, only the cyst is removed (cystectomy), preserving the ovary and its function. However, in some cases, it may also be necessary to remove the ovary (oophorectomy) or remove both the ovary and fallopian tube (adnexectomy). The scope of the surgery is determined by the doctor based on the patient’s condition.

The MedTour platform will help you find an experienced specialist who will select the optimal treatment plan for your condition and take into account all the nuances of your case.

Ovarian cyst – prognosis. How long do people live with ovarian cysts?

The prognosis for this condition is generally favorable. Diagnosis of this pathology usually does not affect life expectancy. Follicular and luteal cysts often resolve on their own without treatment. Other types of cysts are relatively easy to remove surgically. Life-threatening complications may arise if conditions such as cystadenomas are left untreated and develop into malignant tumors. However, even in such a situation, it is possible to find effective treatment that will eliminate the growth and restore health.

Prices of ovarian cyst removal surgery

The cost of ovarian cyst removal surgery depends on several factors, including:

• the country where the surgery will be performed;
• the clinic chosen for treatment;
• the surgeon’s qualifications and reputation;
• surgical treatment method used;
• the scale of the operation and other features of the surgical intervention and the patient’s condition.

A MedTour coordinating doctor will provide you with information on surgery costs and treatment options in different countries, helping you choose the best solution for your needs.

Best clinics for ovarian cyst treatment

On the MedTour platform you can get acquainted with the best clinics dealing with gynecological diseases. We work with medical facilities that specialize in the treatment of gynecological pathologies of any degree of complexity and use the most modern treatment methods. MedTour can organize a trip for you to the best medical centers in different countries of the world, where you can benefit from cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment technologies.

Leading countries for gynecological diseases treatment

You can choose a country known for its advanced and effective treatment methods. Among the leading countries for gynecological care are: Turkey, Germany, Spain, and Israel.

We cooperate with the best clinics in these countries, renowned globally for the quality of their services. For example, the leading medical institutions in this field include:

• University hospital LIV Istinye. One of the best multidisciplinary centers located in Istanbul, Turkey.
• Helios Hospital Berlin-Buch. Awarded “Best National Hospital” in Germany in 2018.
• Sourasky Medical Center. Among the top three most visited medical centers in Israel.
• Teknon Medical Center. Awarded “Best International Hospital in the World” in Spain in 2019.

To select a medical center, you can independently view the entire list of clinics for the treatment of ovarian cysts. Or you can contact us. Our MedTour coordinating doctor will provide a free consultation about clinics, share pricing details, and answer any of your questions.

Best doctors for ovarian cyst treatment

MedTour will help you find an experienced doctor specializing in ovarian cyst treatment. We cooperate with the leading specialists from different countries who have extensive experience and rank among the top professionals in their field.

To learn about the best gynecologists available for your treatment, fill out the contact form. A MedTour medical consultant will contact you and help you choose a doctor who is most suitable for you, taking into account your condition and individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hemorrhagic cyst when to worry?

Typically, growths of this type are not a cause for concern. As a rule, they resolve on their own within 1-3 months. And their appearance does not cause any health consequences. However, if such a cyst does not disappear within 3-4 cycles, grows larger (8 cm or more), continues to increase in size, or has twisted around its axis, this is an indication for surgical treatment.

What is an ovarian cystoma?

An ovarian cystoma is a benign tumor that develops from the epithelial cells of the ovary. It is often multi-chambered, filled with fluid, and characterized by rapid growth. Since this type of growth can develop into a malignant tumor, it is essential to consult a doctor immediately after diagnosis to determine the appropriate course of action.

How can you tell if a cyst is benign or malignant?

To determine whether a growth is benign or malignant, it is necessary to undergo an examination. Tests for tumor markers, ultrasound examination, computed tomography, and other modern diagnostic methods can help identify the characteristic features of the formation and make an accurate diagnosis.

What is a uterine cyst?

Although often confused with ovarian cysts, uterine cysts are rare and involve the uterine tissue rather than the ovary. They are usually benign and can be diagnosed and treated separately.

Published: 07.09.2023

Updated: 01.01.2025

Medical author, Medical editor:

Natalia Segen

Medical author, Medical editor:

Olena Kursabaieva