You feel a dull ache low in your belly, always on the same side, and now you are wondering if something is wrong with your ovary. Most of the time, the answer is reassuring: ovarian cysts are extremely common, and the great majority cause no symptoms at all and quietly go away on their own.
Still, it helps to know what an ovarian cyst can feel like, which symptoms are normal, and which ones mean you should be seen right away. Here is a plain-language guide to ovarian cyst symptoms and when to get help.
What are the symptoms of an ovarian cyst?
Most ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and are found by chance during a pelvic exam or an ultrasound done for another reason. When a cyst does cause symptoms, the classic pattern is discomfort on one side of the lower abdomen, on the same side as the cyst.
A larger cyst can press on nearby structures and create a feeling of fullness, pressure, or heaviness in the lower belly. The pain may be sharp or dull, and it often comes and goes rather than staying constant.
- Pelvic or lower-abdominal pain on one side, sharp or dull, that comes and goes
- Bloating, swelling, or pressure in the lower abdomen
- A sense of fullness or heaviness on the affected side
- Often, no symptoms at all
How common are ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts are very common throughout the reproductive years and can also occur after menopause. Functional cysts, the everyday kind tied to the normal menstrual cycle, are the most common type and are estimated to affect roughly 8% to 20% of reproductive-aged women.
Functional cysts include follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts, both of which form as a normal part of ovulation. The overwhelming majority of cysts are benign (not cancer); only rarely is a cyst malignant.
How long do ovarian cysts last?
Most functional ovarian cysts resolve without any treatment. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, functional cysts usually go away on their own within about 6 to 8 weeks.
Because of this, a doctor will often recommend watchful waiting, repeating an ultrasound after a cycle or two to confirm the cyst has shrunk or disappeared. Cysts that persist, grow, occur after menopause, or cause significant pain may need closer evaluation and sometimes surgery.
How are ovarian cysts diagnosed and treated?
Ultrasound is the main test used to look at an ovarian cyst. It helps your clinician see the cyst's size, whether it is filled with fluid or has solid areas, and whether it looks like a simple functional cyst or something that needs more attention.
Treatment depends on the type of cyst, your symptoms, your age, and whether you have reached menopause. Many simple cysts in reproductive-age women need no treatment at all. Surgery may be considered for cysts that cause ongoing pain, do not resolve over time, or appear in someone who is postmenopausal.
When should I see a doctor or go to the ER?
Mild, intermittent one-sided pelvic discomfort is worth mentioning to your clinician at a routine visit, especially if it is new or recurring. But some symptoms are emergencies. Sudden, severe pain can mean a cyst has ruptured or that the ovary has twisted (ovarian torsion), which cuts off its blood supply and requires prompt treatment.
Ovarian torsion is a surgical emergency. In surgically confirmed cases, about 48% were associated with cysts, roughly 89% of those masses were benign, and about 80% of affected patients were under age 50, so this can happen to younger people too. Get immediate medical care if you have any of the red-flag symptoms below.
- Sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Pain with fever or vomiting
- Cold, clammy skin, rapid breathing, or lightheadedness and weakness (possible signs of shock)
- Pain so severe you cannot stand or stay still
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new skincare treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant, or are taking medications.
