Ovarian cysts

​​​​​​​About ovarian cysts

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or within an ovary. They’re very common and usually don’t cause any symptoms.

In most cases, ovarian cysts are harmless and disappear without treatment within a few months.

It's normal for small cysts to develop in the ovaries.

However, it may be a problem if:

• there are multiple cysts
• they are persistent
  
• the cysts are larger in size
  

Cysts can happen in both ovaries at the same time, or in just one ovary.

Learn more about ovarian cysts NHS​.​

Symptoms

Most ovarian cysts are discovered by chance, during an ultrasound scan​.

You may experience symptoms if a cyst:

• splits or ruptures
• becomes very large
• blocks blood flow to the ovaries

Symptoms include:

• pelvic pain, from a dull ache to sharp, severe pain
• pain during sex
• difficulty having a bowel movement
• frequent urination
• heavy periods, irregular periods​, or unusually light periods
• bloating or a swollen tummy
• feeling full quickly when eating
• difficulty getting pregnant

When to contact your GP

Book an appointment with your ​GP if you experience any of the above symptoms. If you have sudden, severe pelvic pain get urgent help by calling 999 immediately.​​

When you attend your GP appointment it’s helpful for your doctor to know:

• the first day of your last period
• how long your period usually lasts
• shortest and longest gaps between periods
• how often you change period products on heavy days
• the date of your last smear test, if you are over 25

Learn more about ovarian cyst symptoms and treatments on ovarian cysts on NHS Inform.

Getting a diagnosis

If your GP thinks you have a cyst, they may refer you for a vaginal ultras​ound. This is carried out by using a probe placed inside your vagina.

A chaperone will be present during this intimate exam. You can request a female doctor or health professional.

If a cyst is found, it may need to be:

• monitored with follow-up scans
• referred to a gynaecologist
  

Blood tests may also be done to check for other conditions.

Treatment

Most ovarian cysts disappear on their own within a few months. This can be confirmed by a follow-up scan.

Treatment depends on:

• the size and appearance of the cyst
• your symptoms
• age
• stage of menopause​, as post-menopausal cysts have a slightly higher risk of cancer

For post-menopausal people, cysts are usually monitored with regular scans and blood tests over a year.

Surgery may be needed for:

• large cysts
• cysts that cause symptoms
• cysts that could be cancerous

Your care team will explain what to expect and answer any questions.

Types of surgery

There are 2 main surgical procedures to remove ovarian cysts. They are usually carried out under general anaesthetic. This means they use medications to send you to sleep during the surgery.

Discuss any fertility concerns with your surgeon before your operation.

Laparoscopy

Most ovarian cysts can be removed through a laparoscopy, which is commonly known as keyhole surgery. A thin instrument with a camera, called a laparoscope, is inserted so the surgeon can see your internal organs. They remove the cyst through the small cuts in your skin. 

A laparoscopy is common as it causes less pain and has a quicker recovery time. You’ll usually be able to go home on the same day or the following day.

Learn more about having a laparoscopy on NHS.

Laparotomy

You may need a laparotomy if the cyst is very large or there is a concern it could be cancerous.

During a laparotomy, the surgeon makes a larger cut in your abdomen to reach the cyst. They may remove the cyst and, in some cases, the ovary. The tissue is then sent to a laboratory to check for cancer.

You may need to stay in hospital for a few days after the operation.

Recovery after surgery

You may have some pain after surgery. This should improve within a few days.

Recovery usually takes up to 2 weeks after a laparoscopy and 6 to 8 weeks after a laparotomy.

If the cyst was tested, your doctor will discuss the results with you and explain any further treatment you may need.

When to get urgent medical help

Contact your GP or call 999 immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms after surgery, as they may indicate an infection:

• heavy bleeding
• severe pain or swelling in your abdomen
• a high temperature or fever
• unusual vaginal discharge that is dark in colour or has a strong odour

List of surgeries and GPs in Jersey

Out of Hours GP service

Fertility after treatment

If you have not gone through the menopause, your surgeon will try to keep as much of your reproductive system as possible.

In many cases, only the cyst needs to be removed. This means both ovaries can be left in place and your ability to get pregnant should not be affected.

If one ovary needs to be removed, the remaining ovary can usually continue to release eggs and hormones. You may still be able to get pregnant, although it could be more difficult.

Sometimes both ovaries need to be removed. If this happens before the menopause, it will cause an early menopause​. You will stop producing eggs and will not be able to become pregnant naturally.

You may still be able to have a baby using a donated egg. Your doctor can give you more information about this.

If you have already gone through the menopause, both ovaries may be removed because they no longer produce eggs.

You can discuss any fertility concerns with your surgeon before your operation.

Find inf​ormation about help with getting pregnant.