Ovarian cysts are very common and are often discovered during routine pelvic ultrasounds or evaluations for pelvic pain. Most ovarian cysts are benign and many resolve on their own without treatment. However, some cysts require monitoring, additional testing, or surgical treatment depending on their size, appearance, symptoms, and other factors.
There are many different types of ovarian cysts and ovarian masses. Some of the more common types include:
• Functional cysts (follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts)
• Hemorrhagic cysts (cysts containing blood)
• Endometriomas ("chocolate cysts" associated with endometriosis)
• Dermoid cysts (mature cystic teratomas)
• Cystadenomas (benign ovarian tumors)
• Hydrosalpinx (fluid-filled fallopian tube that may be mistaken for an ovarian cyst)
• Ovarian cancer and other malignant ovarian tumors (much less common)
The purpose of the evaluation is to determine what type of cyst is present, whether it is likely benign, and whether observation, follow-up imaging, or treatment is recommended.
The resources below provide information about ovarian cysts, common symptoms, evaluation, treatment options, and situations that may require urgent medical attention. I hope these materials help you better understand your diagnosis and the options available to you.