Sizes, symptoms and when to seek treatment
By Melissa Mesenburg, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Beaufort Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on the ovaries – they’re common, usually harmless and a typical part of a woman’s reproductive health.
While they often go away on their own, some cysts can grow larger, cause symptoms or lead to serious health problems.
Ovarian cysts are common among women of reproductive age. An ovarian cyst develops in or on an ovary, usually during ovulation, which happens every month and is when an ovary releases an egg. Most cysts are linked to the menstrual cycle and often disappear within a few weeks. However, some cysts can grow larger or require treatment.
Most ovarian cysts don’t cause symptoms, especially if they are small. When symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Abdominal pain or pressure, often on one side. The pain may be sharp or dull, and may come and go;
- Problems completely emptying your bladder or bowel;
- A dull ache in your lower back and thighs;
- Bloating or feeling full;
- Changes in your menstrual cycle;
- Pain during sex;
- Unusual vaginal bleeding; or
- Nausea or vomiting, especially if the cyst ruptures or twists;
Understanding the various types of cysts can help in recognizing potential symptoms and seeking appropriate medical advice. Some of the most common types of ovarian cysts include:
- Corpus luteum cysts, which occur when the follicle does not shrink after releasing an egg.
- Cysts from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), characterized by multiple small cysts on the ovaries.
- Dermoid cysts, which contain tissue such as skin or hair.
- Endometriomas, which result from endometriosis, where the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
- Functional cysts: Cysts that form during ovulation and are the most common type.
- Follicular cysts, which occur when a follicle doesn’t release an egg.
Cysts are common, and most are benign or non-cancerous. Knowing the type and size is important to determine if they could cause problems in the future. Cancerous, or malignant cysts, are rare and are more common in older women. Cysts that are cancerous are considered ovarian cancer. Ovarian cysts are less common after a woman goes through menopause, but postmenopausal women who do have ovarian cysts are at higher risk for ovarian cancer.
The size of a cyst plays a big role in how risky it is, but most cysts are manageable and non-cancerous, or benign:
- Small cysts (1/2-2 inches): These are usually harmless and may not require treatment.
- Medium-sized cysts (2-4 inches): These may need ongoing monitoring, especially if they are causing symptoms.
- Large cysts (over 4 inches): These can cause serious problems, such as:
- Ovarian torsion, which can damage the ovary and is a medical emergency;
- Pressure on nearby organs, like the bladder or bowel; or
- A higher chance of rupturing, which can lead to sudden pain and internal bleeding and is a medical emergency.
Taking birth control pills can prevent functional cysts by stopping monthly ovulation. However, this won’t prevent non-functional cysts, like dermoid cysts.
Most ovarian cysts are found during routine pelvic exams. If your health care provider suspects a cyst, they may recommend an ultrasound — an imaging test that shows the size and type of a cyst — and blood tests to help rule out cancer, although most cysts are benign.
Routine gynecology visits are one of the best ways to detect and manage ovarian cysts before they become dangerous.
These visits are also an opportunity to discuss symptoms like pelvic pain or irregular periods with a women’s health provider. Early detection can prevent more serious issues and protect your overall health.
Melissa Mesenburg, CNP, APRN, FNP-C is a board-certified nurse practitioner who sees patients at Beaufort Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists in Beaufort and Okatie.
