Ovarian and Tubal Cysts
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops within or on the surface of an ovary. Tubal cysts are similar fluid-filled sacs that form in or near the fallopian tubes. Most ovarian and tubal cysts are benign and harmless, although some may grow larger, cause symptoms or require treatment to prevent complications.
Commonality
Ovarian cysts are very common, particularly in women of reproductive age.
Key facts include:
Many cysts cause no symptoms
They are often discovered during routine ultrasound scans
Most resolve naturally within a few months
Many women develop ovarian cysts at some point during their reproductive years
Causes
Functional ovarian cysts often develop as part of the normal menstrual cycle, but other factors may contribute.
Possible causes include:
Hormonal imbalance
Previous pelvic infections
Pregnancy
Genetic predisposition
Symptoms
Many ovarian and tubal cysts cause no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:
Pelvic pain or pressure, often on one side
Bloating or abdominal swelling
Changes in the menstrual cycle
Pain during intercourse
Pain during bowel movements
Frequent or urgent urination
Sudden severe pelvic pain may occur if a cyst ruptures or twists and requires urgent medical assessment.
Effects on Fertility
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually involves a clinical assessment and pelvic imaging.
Investigations may include:
Pelvic ultrasound to assess the size, structure, location and internal features of the cyst
Doppler ultrasound if ovarian torsion is suspected
MRI scanning when ultrasound findings are unclear
Blood tests, including CA-125 in selected cases, particularly after menopause
Ultrasound is the main investigation used to diagnose ovarian and tubal cysts.
Treatments
Treatment depends on:
The size and appearance of the cyst
Symptoms
Age and menopausal status
Risk of complications
Management options may include:
Watchful waiting
Monitoring with repeat ultrasound scans
Many simple cysts resolve naturally within a few months
Medical treatment
Hormonal contraception to help prevent new functional cysts from forming
Surgical treatment
Laparoscopic cystectomy (keyhole surgery)
Robotic-assisted cystectomy
Removal of the affected ovary in rare cases
Where possible, treatment aims to preserve healthy ovarian tissue and fertility.
Ongoing Care
Living with the Condition
Being diagnosed with an ovarian cyst can be worrying, but most ovarian and tubal cysts are benign and do not cause serious health problems. Many cysts resolve naturally without treatment and are simply monitored with follow-up scans.
In some cases, complications can occur, including:
Ovarian torsion (twisting of the ovary)
Cyst rupture
Pressure on nearby organs
Rarely, ovarian cancer, particularly after menopause
Careful assessment helps determine whether reassurance, monitoring or treatment is the most appropriate approach. With specialist care, most ovarian and tubal cysts can be managed safely and effectively.
When to See a Specialist
You should seek specialist assessment if you experience:
Persistent pelvic pain
Rapid abdominal swelling
Sudden severe pelvic pain
Unexplained changes in your menstrual cycle
Symptoms that develop after menopause
Early assessment helps determine whether monitoring, further investigation or treatment is needed.