Ovarian Cyst Assessment London

Ovarian cysts are among the most common gynaecological findings in women of all ages. Many are discovered incidentally during an unrelated scan; others cause noticeable symptoms that prompt investigation. At AristoGp in London EC1, we offer same-day consultant-led assessment and pelvic ultrasound to help you understand what has been found and what, if anything, needs to happen next.

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What Are Ovarian Cysts?

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled or partly solid sac that develops on or within one of the ovaries. They are extremely common — many women will have one at some point in their lives — and the vast majority are benign. However, the appropriate management varies considerably depending on the cyst type, size, and the presence of symptoms. A thorough assessment by a consultant gynaecologist is the most reliable way to clarify the picture.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

There are several distinct types of ovarian cyst, each with different characteristics and implications:

• Functional cysts — Follicular and corpus luteum cysts arise as part of the normal menstrual cycle. They are the most common type and usually resolve on their own within one to three cycles.
• Dermoid cysts (teratomas) — These develop from egg cells and may contain a range of tissue types including fat, hair, or tooth material. They are almost always benign but do not resolve spontaneously.
• Endometriomas — Sometimes called “chocolate cysts”, these occur when endometrial tissue grows on the ovary. They are associated with endometriosis and may affect fertility if left unmanaged.
• Cystadenomas — These form from the outer surface of the ovary and may grow large. They are typically benign but require monitoring or surgical review depending on their characteristics.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Pelvic pain or a dull ache, particularly on one side
• A feeling of fullness, bloating, or pressure in the lower abdomen
• Pain during or after sexual intercourse
• Irregular or painful periods
• Discomfort when using the bowel or passing urine

Sudden, severe pelvic pain accompanied by fever, vomiting, or faintness may indicate a ruptured or twisted (torted) cyst and requires urgent medical attention.

How We Assess Ovarian Cysts at AristoGp

Our approach combines a detailed consultation and pelvic ultrasound scan in a single appointment. You will not need to return on a separate day for your scan.

Dr Anastasia Mermigka — Consultant Gynaecologist, GMC number 7640566 — will take a thorough history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a pelvic ultrasound to assess the ovaries directly. Results are reviewed with you at the same visit, along with a clear management plan.

• One appointment: consultation and scan together
• Same-day ultrasound results reviewed with you
• Clear explanation of cyst type and significance
• Written management plan provided
• Onward referral arranged if required

When Is Treatment Needed?

Not all ovarian cysts require active treatment. The decision depends on the type of cyst, its size, whether it is causing symptoms, and relevant factors such as age and reproductive plans.

• Monitoring — Functional cysts and small, simple cysts with no concerning features are often managed with a follow-up ultrasound to confirm resolution.
• Medical management — In some cases, hormonal treatment may be considered to reduce the risk of new cysts forming.
• Surgical review — Cysts that are large, growing, complex, persistent, or causing significant symptoms may be referred for surgical assessment. Dr Mermigka will discuss any referral pathway clearly with you.

Related Services

You may also find the following pages helpful: all gynaecology services, private pelvic ultrasound scan, and information about Dr Anastasia Mermigka.

Pricing

Fees are payable at the time of appointment. We accept card payments. If blood tests or additional investigations are recommended, these will be quoted separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ovarian cysts dangerous?

Most ovarian cysts are benign and cause no lasting harm. Functional cysts — the most common type — often resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles. Some cysts, such as endometriomas or certain complex cysts, may require further investigation or treatment. A consultant gynaecologist can assess your specific cyst and advise on the most appropriate management.

Can ovarian cysts go away on their own?

Functional cysts — follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts — frequently resolve without intervention, typically within one to three menstrual cycles. Other cyst types, such as dermoid cysts or endometriomas, generally do not disappear on their own and may need monitoring or treatment. The appropriate management depends on the cyst type, size, and your symptoms.

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

Ovarian cysts are typically diagnosed using a transvaginal or transabdominal pelvic ultrasound scan. This allows the clinician to measure the cyst, assess its characteristics (solid or fluid-filled, single or multiple compartments), and determine whether further investigation is warranted. At AristoGp, the consultation and ultrasound scan can take place in the same appointment.

When should I see a gynaecologist about an ovarian cyst?

You should seek specialist review if you have pelvic pain, a feeling of fullness or pressure in the abdomen, pain during intercourse, irregular periods, or if a cyst has been found incidentally on a scan and you have not yet had a specialist opinion. Early assessment helps clarify the type of cyst and whether any action is needed.

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Location & Contact

AristoGp
1–5 Portpool Lane
London EC1N 7UU

3 minutes’ walk from Chancery Lane Underground Station (Central line).

To book or enquire: WhatsApp us or use the booking button above.