Ovarian cysts
- follicular cysts - these develop when the follicle fails to burst
- corpus luteum - this is formed when the egg has been released by the follicle, but the follicle fails to break down - instead it becomes filled with fluid or blood
These types of cysts tend to go away by themselves.
- cystadenomas - these are formed from cells that cover the outer surface of the ovary - they can be filled with a watery liquid (serous cystadenoma) or a thicker, sticky fluid (mucinous cystadenoma)
- dermoid cysts - these develop from the cells that make eggs in the ovary - they may contain several types of tissue, including hair, teeth and other material
- endometriomas - these are often associated with endometriosis and form when endometrial tissue (the cells lining the womb) starts to grow in the ovaries
- pain - it is rare for a cyst to be painful, but you may sometimes feel a dull or sharp ache in your lower abdomen (tummy), or pain during sexual intercourse
- discomfort, if your cyst grows quite large
- having to pass urine more often, or sometimes finding it harder to pass urine (urinary retention)
- a feeling of pressure or fullness in your lower abdomen/pelvis
- menstrual changes, such as longer or heavier periods than usual, or sometimes shorter periods than usual
- An ultrasound - this uses sound waves to produce an image of the inside of the body or part of the body. A radiologist (a doctor who specialises in using imaging methods to diagnose medical conditions) or radiographer (a health professional trained to perform imaging procedures) may perform this test. He or she will look at your ovarian cyst by placing an ultrasound probe on your lower abdomen, or sometimes into your vagina (transvaginal ultrasound), which can give a clearer picture of your ovaries.
- Blood tests - these may be carried out for a substance called CA-125, which can be increased in women who have ovarian cancer or benign ovarian cysts.
This information was published by Bupa Group's Health Content Team and has been reviewed by appropriate medical or clinical professionals. To the best of their knowledge the information is current and based on reputable sources of medical evidence, however Bupa (Asia) Limited makes no representation or warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of the Content.
The information on this page, and any information on third party websites referred to on this page, is provided as a guide only. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice, nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. Bupa (Asia) Limited is not liable for any loss or damage you suffer arising out of the use of, or reliance on, the information.
Third party websites are not owned or controlled by Bupa and any individual may be able to access and post messages on them. Bupa is not responsible for the content or availability of these third party websites. Last updated August 2017.
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