Ovarian cyst

An ovarian cyst is a fluid filled sac within the ovary. It is a common finding on gynecological pelvis exams. Most ovarian cysts are benign in nature and harmless. On occasion they can twist the ovary (torsion) or burst. This can result in acute, severe pain.The ovaries during childbearing years are maturing eggs and thus creating follicular cysts, which depending on the menstrual cycle stage can be of different sizes. This is why if you are symptomatic then often for evaluation of the ovaries which have cysts repeat imaging is necessary to determine which cysts are functional versus non-functional. Some non-functional cysts are concerning and will continue to enlarge, whereas functional cysts will often resolve with time. Unfortunately, no test other than time can separate concerning cysts from normal functional cysts.

This Condition Covered in

Head & Torso
Whole Body
Torso

Take a quick survey to assess your cancer risk

Open modal