Ovarian Cyst Evaluation & Treatment
Ovarian cysts are very common and often cause no symptoms, but some lead to pelvic pain, bloating, or irregular periods. At Marina OB/GYN, our board-certified providers use in-depth evaluation and ultrasound to determine the right approach, from monitoring to minimally invasive surgery, for women throughout Los Angeles County.
Book OnlineWhat Are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside an ovary. Most are functional cysts that form as a normal part of the menstrual cycle and disappear without treatment within a few weeks. Other types, such as dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, and endometriomas caused by endometriosis, may persist or grow and require closer attention. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often have many small follicles on the ovaries as well.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Many cysts cause no symptoms and are found during a routine exam or ultrasound. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Dull or sharp pain on one side of the lower abdomen
- Bloating, fullness, or pressure in the pelvis
- Pain during intercourse
- Changes in your menstrual cycle
- Frequent urination from pressure on the bladder
Sudden, severe pelvic pain with fever, vomiting, or dizziness may signal a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion and requires emergency care.
Diagnosing Ovarian Cysts
Your provider will perform a pelvic exam and usually a pelvic ultrasound to evaluate the size, shape, and contents of the cyst. Blood tests may be recommended in some cases, particularly for women after menopause, to help rule out more serious conditions.
Ovarian Cyst Treatment
- Watchful waiting: Many small, simple cysts resolve on their own and are monitored with a follow-up ultrasound.
- Hormonal birth control: Birth control can prevent ovulation and reduce the chance of new functional cysts forming.
- Minimally invasive surgery: Large, persistent, or painful cysts can be removed laparoscopically or with da Vinci robotic surgery, often preserving the ovary.
Personalized Care Across Los Angeles County
Marina OB/GYN evaluates and treats ovarian cysts at offices in Marina Del Rey, Hawthorne, South Gate, Carson, Long Beach, Torrance, and Los Angeles. We also treat related conditions such as fibroids and heavy bleeding. See all conditions we treat.
Ovarian Cyst FAQs
Are ovarian cysts common?
Yes. Most women develop functional ovarian cysts at some point, and the majority are harmless and go away on their own.
Are ovarian cysts cancerous?
Most ovarian cysts are benign. Your provider will use ultrasound and sometimes blood tests to evaluate any cyst that looks unusual.
Do ovarian cysts go away on their own?
Many functional cysts resolve within one to three menstrual cycles without treatment.
When does an ovarian cyst need surgery?
Surgery may be recommended for cysts that are large, persistent, growing, painful, or have unusual features on ultrasound.
Can birth control prevent ovarian cysts?
Hormonal birth control can prevent ovulation, which reduces the risk of new functional cysts.
Can ovarian cysts affect fertility?
Most do not. However, cysts related to endometriosis or PCOS can affect fertility.
When should I seek emergency care?
Go to the emergency room for sudden, severe pelvic pain, especially with fever, vomiting, fainting, or rapid breathing.