Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets within or on the surface of an ovary. They typically occur as the result of ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) and are common in women of childbearing age (from puberty to menopause). Most cysts are normal and shrink over time, usually within one to three months.

Cysts that develop due to normal ovulation are called functional cysts, because they are not related to disease. Other less common types of ovarian cysts include dermoid cysts, cystadenoma cysts and endometrioma cysts. These abnormal ovarian cysts are usually benign, but they may require treatment.

Most ovarian cysts are small and do not causes symptoms. When symptoms are present, the most common is pain or a sense of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvis. This may be caused by:

• Rupture of the cyst
• Rapid growth of the cyst
• Twisting of the cyst around its blood supply

Ovarian cysts are usually diagnosed during routine pelvic exams, although ultrasounds are sometimes necessary. Blood tests, pregnancy tests and biopsies may also be performed to rule out other conditions.

Most cysts are functional cysts and disappear within 60 days without any treatment. Therefore, a physician is likely to monitor a patient over one to three months to determine whether the cyst has changed in size or caused increased symptoms. A physician may recommend surgery to remove the cyst if the patient is postmenopausal as cysts that develop after menopause (a rare occurrence) can increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Surgery may also be recommended if the cyst:

• Does not disappear after several menstrual cycles
• Has gotten larger
• Looks unusual on the ultrasound
• Causes pain

Women who frequently develop cysts may have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that causes women to develop many small cysts in their ovaries. These women, as well as others who frequently develop cysts may be prescribed birth control pills, which prevent ovulation and the formation of cysts.  However, not all recurring ovarian cysts indicate this condition and not all women with PCOS develop ovarian cysts.

Ovarian cysts cannot be prevented in women who are ovulating. However, most cysts do not cause symptoms, are not cancerous and disappear without treatment. Regular gynecological exams are a good way to help ensure that changes in the ovaries are detected and diagnosed as early as possible.