Ovarian cysts are quite common and, in most cases, not a cause for concern. They are often formed naturally and resolve on their own. However, regular check-ups with an experienced OBGYN can help monitor your health and address any questions you may have. In this guide, we’ll discuss the different types of ovarian cysts, common symptoms to be aware of, and when it might be helpful to seek professional care.
What Are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. They are quite common and often form naturally during a woman’s menstrual cycle. These cysts can vary in size, from as small as a pea to larger formations that may be noticed during imaging tests like an ultrasound.
Most ovarian cysts are harmless and disappear on their own without causing any symptoms. They typically form when the ovary releases or prepares to release an egg. While many cysts go unnoticed, some can grow larger or fill with blood or other material, depending on their type.
There are different kinds of ovarian cysts, and understanding the basic nature of these formations can help you feel more informed about your body’s normal functions.
Common Types of Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts are generally divided into two main categories: functional cysts and pathological cysts. This classification is based on how the cysts form and whether they are part of the body’s natural processes or result from abnormal tissue growth.
Learning about these two main types helps explain why some cysts are temporary, while others may need more attention or treatment.
Functional Cysts
Functional cysts are the most common type of ovarian cyst. They develop as a normal part of your monthly cycle, usually during ovulation. Functional cysts form when the normal process of releasing an egg from the ovary doesn’t go exactly as planned.
There are three types of functional cysts:
- Follicular Cysts: Each month, your ovaries grow small sacs called follicles, which contain immature eggs. Normally, one follicle releases its egg during ovulation. If the follicle doesn’t release the egg, or if it fails to dissolve after releasing it, fluid can build up inside the sac. This creates a follicular cyst. These cysts are usually small and painless, resolving naturally within a few weeks.
- Corpus Luteum Cyst: After a follicle releases an egg, it transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum. This structure produces hormones that support early pregnancy if fertilization happens. Sometimes, instead of shrinking as expected, the corpus luteum fills with fluid or blood and forms a cyst. Most corpus may cause discomfort or bleeding.
- Theca Lutein Cysts: Theca lutein cysts are much rarer than the other two types. These develop when the ovaries are overstimulated by high levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone related to pregnancy. They are often seen in women undergoing fertility treatments or those carrying multiple pregnancies. These cysts usually appear on both ovaries and tend to shrink once hormone levels return to normal.
Pathological Cysts
Pathological cysts are different from functional cysts because they form due to abnormal cell growth rather than ovulation. These cysts are less common but may require treatment, especially if they grow larger or cause symptoms like pain or bloating.
Common types of pathological cysts include:
- Dermoid Cysts: Also known as mature cystic teratomas, Dermoid cysts are unique because they can contain different types of body tissues like hair, skin, fat, or even teeth. This is because they develop from cells capable of producing all types of tissue. While dermoid cysts are usually benign (non-cancerous), they can grow large and may need surgical removal if they cause discomfort or complications.
- Cystadenomas: Cystadenomas develop from cells on the outer surface of the ovary. These cysts are filled with either clear, watery fluid (serous cystadenomas) or a thick, mucous-like substance (mucinous cystadenomas). They can grow significantly larger than functional cysts, sometimes causing abdominal discomfort, bloating, or pressure. Although usually benign, they may require removal if they grow too large.
- Endometriomas: Endometriomas are linked to a condition called endometriosis, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. When this tissue attaches to an ovary, it can form a cyst filled with dark, old blood—commonly referred to as a “chocolate cyst” due to its appearance. Endometriomas can be painful, especially during menstruation, and may also affect fertility.
- Ovarian Cancer Cysts: While most ovarian cysts are benign, some can be malignant. Ovarian cancer cysts develop as part of ovarian cancer and are less common than other types. These cysts often do not cause symptoms early on, which is why monitoring are important, especially for women with risk factors like a family history of ovarian cancer.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Ovarian cysts often go unnoticed because they usually don’t cause symptoms. In many cases, women only discover them during a routine pelvic exam or imaging test. However, when symptoms do appear, they can vary based on the size, type, and location of the cyst.
Some of the most common signs include:
- A dull or sharp pain in the lower abdomen, usually on one side
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the belly
- Irregular menstrual cycles or spotting between periods
- Pain during intercourse
- Pelvic discomfort before or during your period
- Increased need to urinate or difficulty emptying your bladder
While these symptoms can also be linked to other conditions, persistent or worsening discomfort may suggest a cyst that needs attention. For example, a large cyst or one that twists (a condition called ovarian torsion) can cause sudden, severe pain and may require urgent care.
Mild symptoms don’t always mean something serious, but they’re still worth mentioning to your OBGYN, especially if they last more than a few cycles. Thorough evaluation can help identify cysts before they lead to complications. The sooner you understand what’s causing your symptoms, the easier it is to manage your health with confidence.
Can You Prevent Ovarian Cysts?
Preventing ovarian cysts completely isn’t always possible, especially since many cysts develop as a natural part of your menstrual cycle. However, staying vigilant about your reproductive health can make a difference in early detection and management.
While you can’t stop cysts from forming, regular visits to your OBGYN can help detect them early, often before they cause noticeable symptoms. Routine pelvic exams and imaging tests, such as transvaginal ultrasound, allow your doctor to monitor your ovaries for any changes in size or structure.
To understand why this matters, you can also read our blog on The Importance of Annual Exams for Every Woman.
Your OBGYN care may also include discussions about your menstrual patterns, hormone levels, and any ongoing symptoms. This information can help your provider identify risk factors, such as hormonal imbalances or underlying conditions like endometriosis, that could increase your chances of developing cysts.
Your OBGYN specialist might also recommend certain steps to help reduce your risk of complications related to ovarian cysts:
- Tracking your menstrual cycle
- Considering hormonal birth control
- Reporting symptoms promptly
By working with your provider and staying aware of your body’s changes, you can take a more active role in protecting your reproductive health.
Managing Your Health Moving Forward
Staying proactive about your reproductive health can make a real difference in managing ovarian cysts. Routine check-ups with your gynecologist help monitor any changes in your ovaries, even when you’re not experiencing symptoms. Frequent exams provide early insights that support timely care and prevent potential complications.
If you’re looking for expert care and guidance, Atlanta Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialists are here to help. Call us and schedule your visit today and take the first step toward confident, ongoing care.