Treatment of an ovarian cyst

An ovarian cyst is a benign neoplasm with a hollow structure filled with fluid or semi-liquid substance. A cyst can develop from various types of cells lining the surface of the reproductive organs. Therefore, there are different types of neoplasms: some resolve on their own, while others require surgical treatment.

Small cysts often do not show any symptoms and are detected during routine check-ups. Pain and other symptoms appear only with certain types of cysts or their complications.

Women most often do not feel the development of the tumor. General well-being worsens mainly with the growth of the neoplasm or complications such as rupture or torsion of the cyst.

An ovarian cyst or other gynecological condition may be suspected with the following symptoms:

• Sharp or aching pain in the lower abdomen, which may radiate to the lower back or be localized in the area of the ovary;

• Changes in the menstrual cycle (delayed periods, early onset, heavy or scanty discharge);

• Spotting in the middle of the cycle;

• Pain during sexual intercourse;

• Discomfort or frequent urination.

In case of capsule rupture, torsion of the pedicle, and other complications, acute abdominal pain and a general deterioration in health may occur. Urgent surgical intervention is needed in such cases.

Functional cysts are associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones. They occur in women of reproductive age. Organic tumors, which are less dependent on hormone levels, are less common.

The likelihood of developing ovarian cysts increases with:

• Hereditary predisposition;

• Hormonal imbalance;

• Endocrine disorders;

• Pregnancy loss;

• Chronic inflammatory diseases of the reproductive organs;

• Early or late menarche;

• Late menopause;

• Ovulation stimulation;

• Use of certain medications;

• Metabolic disorders.

Depending on the cause and structure, ovarian cysts are classified as follows:

• Follicular cyst – develops when the mature follicle fails to rupture during the ovulation cycle;

• Luteal cyst – appears after ovulation when fluid accumulates in the corpus luteum (a temporary gland);

• Endometrioid cyst – forms with ovarian endometriosis and presents with pronounced symptoms (pain, pressure, etc.);

• Paraovarian cyst – develops from the cells of the ovarian appendage on the outer side of the ovary;

• Dermoid cyst – forms from epithelial cells that entered the ovary during embryonic development;

• Theca-lutein cyst – develops due to insufficient progesterone synthesis by the corpus luteum during early pregnancy.

Follicular and luteal cysts are referred to as functional. They develop due to disruptions in the ovarian-menstrual cycle. These types are the most common among women. They may be asymptomatic and resolve on their own within 1–2 months. Theca-lutein cysts also tend to regress. They may disappear after childbirth and the end of lactation. However, all types of cysts require dynamic monitoring.

Some cysts may develop without symptoms and resolve on their own, but others can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Complications of ovarian cysts may include:

• Torsion of the cyst pedicle;

• Rupture of the ovarian cyst;

• Suppuration within the cyst;

• Impaired ovarian and adjacent organ functions;

• Pregnancy loss;

• Infertility.

These complications are accompanied by severe abdominal pain, high fever, nausea, and other symptoms. Medical help must be sought immediately, as surgical treatment may be necessary.

Ovarian cysts are most often detected via ultrasound. To confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of neoplasm, additional instrumental tests may be required. The gynecologist may order CT, MRI, or Doppler ultrasound of the pelvic organs.

In the case of small functional cysts, the gynecologist may opt for an observation strategy. This involves scheduled consultations and ultrasounds to monitor the tumors over time. Functional cysts may resolve within several months. If not, therapy may be required.

Ovarian cysts are treated using both medication and surgery. Medications may include hormonal drugs to restore hormonal balance and other medications for treating inflammation or relieving pain.

Surgery is indicated for dermoid cysts, large tumors, pronounced symptoms, failure of conservative therapy, and the occurrence of cysts after menopause. Most surgeries are performed laparoscopically—through small incisions in the abdominal wall. Depending on the size of the cyst, the woman’s age, and plans for childbearing, the following may be performed: excision of the cyst capsule while preserving the ovary, removal of the cyst and part of the ovary, or complete removal of the ovary.

Oxford Medical clinics in Kyiv are equipped with state-of-the-art devices from leading European brands. This allows for highly accurate diagnosis of all pathologies and surgical procedures of any complexity.

In cases of ovarian cysts, our gynecologist-surgeons mainly perform minimally invasive operations, which help preserve the organ and the woman’s reproductive function. However, these are radical measures. If possible, specialists initially prescribe conservative therapy.

To prevent cyst formation, it is recommended to:

• Monitor and maintain hormonal balance;

• Take oral contraceptives only as prescribed by a doctor;

• Ensure regular menstrual cycles, and consult a gynecologist in case of irregularities;

• Timely treat all gynecological conditions;

• Visit a gynecologist and undergo preventive ultrasound at least once a year.

To schedule an appointment with an obstetrician-gynecologist, call our contact center or write to us in the chat.

The cost of ovarian cyst treatment may vary. It depends on whether cyst puncture or surgical excision is required, and the complexity of the procedure. You can find preliminary pricing for treatment at Oxford Medical here The gynecologist will provide detailed information during the consultation. Book your appointment at a convenient time.