Ovarian cysts

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What are ovarian cysts?

The ovaries are small glands on each side of the uterus that make eggs and hormones. An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside an ovary. Many ovarian cysts develop as part of the normal menstrual cycle. These are called functional cysts, and they’re common during the childbearing years. Most ovarian cysts are harmless, not related to cancer, and go away on their own within a few months. Cysts found after menopause are more likely to need closer evaluation.

At Penn Medicine, our women’s health team provides expert diagnosis and tailored care for both simple and complex cysts. We take a team-based approach, bringing together specialists in gynecology, radiology, fertility, and, when needed, gynecologic oncology. Whether you need monitoring, help managing pelvic pain, or surgical care, we guide you through your options clearly and compassionately.

When ovarian cysts cause symptoms

Many ovarian cysts are small and don’t cause any symptoms. You may not know you have one unless it’s found during a pelvic exam or imaging test. When symptoms do appear, they can range from mild discomfort to sudden and severe pain.

Understanding the types of ovarian cysts

Not all ovarian cysts are alike. Most are harmless and part of your regular menstrual cycle. Others may need closer monitoring. Knowing which type you have helps guide decisions about your care.

What causes ovarian cysts?

The most common cause of ovarian cysts is ovulation. These functional cysts form as part of your menstrual cycle. Each month, a small sac called a follicle grows on your ovary. The follicle holds a developing egg and makes hormones. When the egg is released, the follicle usually shrinks. If it doesn’t release the egg or shrink as expected, fluid can build up and form a cyst.

Other causes include:

Diagnosing ovarian cysts

Your provider might find a cyst during a routine pelvic exam or during imaging done for something else. If a cyst is suspected, additional testing can help confirm the diagnosis and guide next steps.

Blood tests may be used to check hormone levels. A CA-125 test may be ordered in certain situations, especially after menopause or if imaging results are unclear. A pregnancy test may also be done. Imaging tests help determine the cyst’s size, type, and features.

Ultrasound
Leading-edge ultrasound technology helps us diagnose a range of health conditions.
CT scan
A CT scan helps diagnose traumatic injuries, cancer, vascular diseases, and many other conditions.
MRI
An MRI provides high-resolution images of the brain, spine, and many other structures in the body.

Treatment options for ovarian cysts

Often, the best approach is watchful waiting. Because most functional ovarian cysts go away within eight to 12 weeks, your provider may repeat an ultrasound to confirm it has resolved. Pain relief medication may be recommended to ease discomfort. If you frequently develop cysts, birth control pills may be suggested. While they don’t shrink an existing cyst, they can prevent ovulation and reduce the chance of new cysts forming.

Surgery may be recommended if a cyst is very large, continues to grow, causes significant pain, or raises concern for cancer. Surgical options include minimally invasive techniques or, in more complex cases, laparotomy.

In rare cases, a cyst can be a sign of ovarian cancer. If cancer is suspected, you’ll be referred to our specialists in gynecologic cancer care. Penn Medicine is a leader in cancer care, offering advanced treatment options and coordinated support.

Pelvic laparoscopy
Pelvic laparoscopy is surgery to examine the pelvic organs. It uses a viewing tool called a laparoscope. The surgery is also used to treat certain diseases of the pelvic organs.

Related specialties

Gynecologic cancer care
We offer comprehensive care and advanced treatment options for gynecologic cancers.
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We offer comprehensive, multidisciplinary care to manage complex and chronic conditions like PMOS.
Well-woman care
We personalize preventive gynecologic health exams and screenings to meet your needs.
Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery
We offer advanced, minimally invasive surgical options to treat gynecological conditions.

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