Ovarian cysts are very common and, in most cases, completely harmless. The majority are small, cause no symptoms, and resolve on their own without any treatment. However, some cysts do cause symptoms — and in certain circumstances, a specialist assessment is important. This article explains what ovarian cysts are, the symptoms to be aware of, and when to seek medical advice.
What Are Ovarian Cysts?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or within one of the ovaries. They are particularly common in women of reproductive age and are very frequently found incidentally — for example, during a routine pelvic ultrasound scan for another reason. Most ovarian cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and a large proportion are what are called functional cysts, directly related to the normal process of ovulation.
Types of Ovarian Cysts
There are several different types of ovarian cyst, each with different characteristics and implications:
- Functional cysts — the most common type, divided into follicular cysts (which form when a follicle does not release an egg and continues to grow) and corpus luteum cysts (which develop after egg release). Most resolve spontaneously within 2 to 3 months and require no treatment.
- Dermoid cysts (teratomas) — contain tissue such as hair, skin, or teeth. They are almost always benign but may require surgical removal if they are large or causing symptoms.
- Endometriomas — sometimes called “chocolate cysts”, these are linked to endometriosis and contain old blood. They can affect ovarian function and fertility. Read more on our endometriosis page.
- Cystadenomas — develop from the cells on the outer surface of the ovary and can grow to a significant size. They are usually benign but may need removal.
- Polycystic ovaries — in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), multiple small follicles develop on the ovaries without releasing eggs. This is a distinct hormonal condition. Read more on our PCOS specialist page.
Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms at all and are discovered incidentally. When symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Pelvic pain — this may be a dull, persistent ache or a sharper pain on one side of the lower abdomen, often on the side where the cyst is located
- Bloating or swelling in the lower abdomen — a feeling of fullness or pressure, which may become more noticeable with larger cysts
- Feeling full quickly when eating — a larger cyst can press on the stomach, reducing the sensation of capacity
- Pain during intercourse — particularly if the cyst is positioned near the area affected by penetration
- Changes in periods — some cysts can affect the menstrual cycle, causing periods to become heavier, lighter, or irregular
- Frequent need to urinate — a cyst pressing on the bladder may increase urinary frequency
- Difficulty emptying the bowel — pressure on the bowel from a cyst can cause constipation or a feeling of incomplete emptying
- Lower back pain — some women notice discomfort radiating into the lower back or thighs
It is important to note that many of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than ovarian cysts. A pelvic ultrasound scan is the most reliable way to confirm or rule out a cyst.
When to See a Gynaecologist
If you develop sudden, severe pelvic pain — particularly if accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, or faintness — seek urgent medical attention or go to A&E. This could indicate a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion (twisting), both of which require prompt assessment.
In non-urgent situations, a specialist assessment is appropriate if you experience:
- Persistent pelvic pain or pressure that is not resolving
- Bloating that has lasted more than 3 weeks
- Changes in your menstrual pattern
- Pain during sex
- A feeling of fullness or a lump in the lower pelvis
- A family history of ovarian cancer
Most women with these symptoms will not have a serious condition, but investigation provides clarity and peace of mind.
How Ovarian Cysts Are Diagnosed
At AristoGp, Dr Anastasia Mermigka — Consultant Gynaecologist (GMC 7640566) — performs pelvic ultrasound scans as part of your consultation. The scan may include transvaginal ultrasound, transabdominal ultrasound, or both, depending on what gives the clearest view. Results are available immediately following the scan, and Dr Mermigka will discuss her findings with you during the same appointment.
Where indicated, blood tests — including CA-125 (a tumour marker) — may be arranged to provide additional information. Read more about our private pelvic ultrasound scan service.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type, size, and characteristics of the cyst, as well as your symptoms and circumstances. Options include:
- Watchful waiting — most functional cysts resolve on their own within 2 to 3 months. A follow-up ultrasound scan is usually arranged to confirm this.
- Monitoring with repeat ultrasound — for cysts that do not resolve or that require ongoing observation, regular scanning provides reassurance and enables any change to be identified promptly.
- Surgical referral — if a cyst is large, persistent, causing significant symptoms, or has characteristics that require further evaluation, a referral for surgical assessment may be discussed. AristoGp can arrange this where appropriate.
Dr Mermigka will discuss the most appropriate approach based on your individual assessment findings.
Consultation Fees
- Consultation + Pelvic Ultrasound — £270
- Follow-up Appointment — £100
Appointments are available at AristoGp, 1–5 Portpool Lane, London EC1N 7UU — approximately 3 minutes from Chancery Lane Underground station.
Book Your Appointment
To arrange a pelvic ultrasound scan and gynaecology consultation with Dr Mermigka, use the booking button below or contact the clinic via WhatsApp.
Book a Consultation + Ultrasound
You may also find the following pages useful:
Ovarian Cyst Treatment London | Private Ultrasound Scan London | About Dr Anastasia Mermigka
