What are the treatment options for ovarian cysts?

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled or solid area in or on an ovary. Many are found incidentally and change without treatment. A Transvaginal Ultrasound can describe its size and features, while your symptoms and stage of life help guide the plan. A cyst’s presence does not by itself establish whether it is harmful.

If the cyst looks uncomplicated and symptoms are mild, your clinician may recommend observation and a repeat scan. Pain relief may help while the cyst is monitored. The Combined Pill may regulate bleeding and prevent new ovulation-related cysts, but it does not reliably remove an existing cyst. If a cyst grows, remains, has concerning features, or causes ongoing symptoms, Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy may be discussed. This keyhole operation removes the cyst while aiming to preserve healthy ovarian tissue when appropriate.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden severe pelvic pain, pain with vomiting, faintness, marked weakness, fever, or heavy vaginal bleeding. These symptoms can occur with complications such as twisting of the ovary or cyst rupture and need prompt assessment.

Ask what the scan shows, whether follow-up imaging is needed, what pain relief is suitable, and how treatment may affect fertility. If surgery is suggested, ask what will be removed, whether the ovary can be preserved, and what recovery involves.