Ovarian cyst with hair: what it can mean

A dermoid cyst, also called a mature cystic teratoma, can contain tissues such as hair, skin or fat because it develops from cells capable of forming different tissue types. It is not the same as a typical ovulation-related cyst. Some dermoid cysts cause no symptoms; others cause pelvic heaviness, pain, bloating or pain during sex. A [Transvaginal Ultrasound](/treatments/diagnostics-and-imaging/transvaginal-ultrasound/) can help show fat, calcification or other features, although the scan cannot answer every question by itself.

Ask for the scan report to be explained in plain language and keep track of pain, pressure, bleeding, nausea and changes in bladder or bowel symptoms. The plan may be monitoring when the cyst is small and not troubling you, or surgery when it is causing symptoms, growing, or has features that need removal and laboratory examination. Discuss fertility, recovery and whether the ovary can be preserved before any operation. Read about [Ovarian Cysts](/conditions/ovarian-cysts/) and [Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/laparoscopic-ovarian-cystectomy/).

Seek emergency care for sudden severe pelvic pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, marked dizziness, fever or a rapidly swollen abdomen. A dermoid cyst can sometimes twist the ovary or rupture, producing abrupt symptoms. Contact a clinician promptly for new persistent pain, increasing abdominal fullness or bleeding that is unusual for you.

Ask whether the scan features fit a dermoid cyst, how large it is, whether monitoring is reasonable, and what change would alter the plan. Discuss fertility and the possible approach if surgery is advised. Ask whether the [Combined Pill](/treatments/contraception-and-family-planning/combined-pill/) has any role for your symptoms, since it does not remove a dermoid cyst.