10 Common Ovarian Cyst Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. While many ovarian cysts are harmless and resolve on their own without causing any symptoms, some can grow large enough to cause discomfort or serious complications. Understanding the symptoms of ovarian cysts is crucial for early detection and proper medical care.

Most women will develop at least one ovarian cyst during their lifetime, and many never even realize it. However, when symptoms do occur, they can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that requires immediate medical attention. This comprehensive guide will help you recognize the most common signs and symptoms associated with ovarian cysts, so you know when to consult with your healthcare provider.

1. Pelvic Pain or Discomfort

Pelvic pain is one of the most frequently reported symptoms of ovarian cysts. This pain can manifest in various ways and intensities depending on the size and type of cyst.

The discomfort typically presents as:

• A dull, aching sensation in the lower abdomen
• Pain that may be constant or intermittent
• Discomfort that may worsen during certain activities
• Pain concentrated on one side of the pelvis, corresponding to the affected ovary

What does ovarian cyst pain feel like? Many women describe it as a persistent heaviness or pressure in the pelvic region. The pain intensity can fluctuate throughout the day and may become more noticeable during physical activity, bowel movements, or sexual intercourse. Some women experience sharp, sudden pains if the cyst twists or ruptures, which requires immediate medical evaluation.

2. Abdominal Bloating and Swelling

Bloating is a common symptom that many women with ovarian cysts experience. This occurs when a cyst grows large enough to cause visible abdominal distension.

You may notice:

• A feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen
• Clothes fitting more snugly around the waist
• Visible swelling or distension of the lower abdomen
• A sensation of pressure or heaviness in the belly

Unlike typical bloating from digestive issues that comes and goes, bloating caused by an ovarian cyst tends to be persistent and may progressively worsen as the cyst grows. This symptom is particularly noticeable with larger cysts and can be accompanied by a general feeling of discomfort or unease in the abdominal region.

3. Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)

While menstrual cramps are normal for many women, ovarian cysts can cause periods to become significantly more painful than usual.

Signs that your period pain may be related to an ovarian cyst include:

• Menstrual pain that is notably worse than your typical experience
• Cramping that begins earlier or lasts longer than normal
• Pain that doesn’t respond well to over-the-counter pain relievers
• Heavy bleeding accompanied by severe pelvic pain

Certain types of ovarian cysts, particularly endometriomas (also called chocolate cysts), are closely linked to endometriosis and can cause exceptionally painful menstruation. If you notice a sudden change in your menstrual pain pattern, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation.

4. Pain During or After Sexual Intercourse

Discomfort during sexual activity, medically known as dyspareunia, is a significant symptom that many women with ovarian cysts experience but may feel hesitant to discuss.

This symptom typically manifests as:

• Sharp or stabbing pain during deep penetration
• Aching or throbbing sensation during or after intercourse
• Discomfort localized to one side of the pelvis
• Pain that persists for hours after sexual activity

The pain occurs because the cyst on the ovary can be compressed or moved during intercourse, causing irritation and discomfort. Large cysts or those positioned in certain locations are more likely to cause this symptom. This can significantly impact quality of life and intimate relationships, making it essential to seek medical advice if you experience this symptom regularly.

5. Frequent or Urgent Need to Urinate

When an ovarian cyst grows large enough, it can press against the bladder, causing urinary symptoms that mimic a urinary tract infection but without the burning sensation.

You may experience:

• Feeling the need to urinate more often than usual
• Sudden, urgent need to use the bathroom
• Difficulty emptying your bladder completely
• Sensation of pressure on the bladder

This symptom is particularly common with larger cysts, typically those measuring 5 centimeters or more in diameter. The constant pressure on the bladder can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily activities. If you notice these urinary changes along with other symptoms on this list, an ovarian cyst could be the underlying cause.

6. Difficulty with Bowel Movements

Similar to how ovarian cysts can affect the bladder, they can also put pressure on the intestines and rectum, leading to various bowel-related symptoms.

Common bowel symptoms include:

• Difficulty passing stools or constipation
• Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation
• Pain or pressure during bowel movements
• Unusual fullness or pressure in the rectal area

Large cysts positioned near the bowel can physically obstruct normal bowel function or cause discomfort when the intestines are full. Some women notice that their symptoms worsen after eating large meals. If you’re experiencing persistent changes in bowel habits alongside pelvic discomfort, it’s worth investigating whether an ovarian cyst might be the cause.

7. Unusual Fullness or Early Satiety When Eating

A large ovarian cyst can take up significant space in the abdominal cavity, affecting your appetite and eating patterns.

This symptom presents as:

• Feeling full after eating only small amounts of food
• Loss of appetite without intentional dietary changes
• Persistent feeling of fullness even when hungry
• Nausea or discomfort after meals

The cyst essentially occupies space that your digestive system normally uses during meals, creating a false sense of fullness. This can lead to unintentional weight loss in some cases, as women naturally begin eating less. If you notice significant changes in your eating patterns or unexplained weight loss, especially accompanied by abdominal swelling, consult your healthcare provider.

8. Severe, Sudden Abdominal Pain

While many ovarian cyst symptoms develop gradually, sudden and severe pain can indicate a serious complication such as a ruptured ovarian cyst or ovarian torsion (twisting).

Symptoms of a ruptured ovarian cyst include:

• Sharp, stabbing pain that comes on suddenly
• Pain that may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting
• Tenderness in the lower abdomen
• Fever in some cases
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Rapid breathing or heart rate

Ovarian cyst rupture symptoms require immediate medical attention. When a cyst ruptures, it releases fluid and sometimes blood into the abdominal cavity, which can cause significant pain and potentially dangerous internal bleeding. Similarly, if an ovary twists around its supporting tissues (torsion), it can cut off blood supply, creating a medical emergency. If you experience sudden, severe pelvic or abdominal pain, seek emergency medical care immediately.

9. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

Some types of ovarian cysts can interfere with normal hormone production and menstrual cycles, leading to unusual bleeding patterns.

You might notice:

• Irregular periods or changes in menstrual cycle length
• Spotting between periods
• Heavier or lighter menstrual flow than usual
• Prolonged menstrual bleeding

Functional cysts, which form during the normal menstrual cycle, are particularly likely to cause these hormonal fluctuations. While occasional irregularities are common and not always cause for concern, persistent or significant changes in bleeding patterns warrant medical evaluation. Your healthcare provider can determine whether an ovarian cyst or another condition is responsible for these changes.

10. Lower Back or Thigh Pain

Pain from ovarian cysts isn’t always confined to the pelvic region. Some women experience referred pain that radiates to other areas of the body.

This can manifest as:

• Dull aching in the lower back
• Pain that extends down the thighs
• Discomfort in the hip region
• Pain that worsens with physical activity or standing for long periods

This referred pain occurs because the nerves in the pelvic region are interconnected with those serving the lower back and legs. A large cyst or one that causes inflammation can irritate these nerves, causing pain signals to be perceived in areas beyond the pelvis. This symptom is often overlooked or attributed to other causes like muscle strain, but when it occurs alongside other signs of ovarian cysts, it should be evaluated by a medical professional.

What Causes Ovarian Cysts?

Understanding what causes ovarian cysts can help you recognize your risk factors and take appropriate preventive measures when possible. Ovarian cysts develop for various reasons:

Functional Cysts: These are the most common type and form as a normal part of the menstrual cycle. Each month, your ovaries produce follicles that release eggs. Sometimes, these follicles don’t rupture as they should and instead continue to grow, forming a cyst. Corpus luteum cysts can also develop after an egg is released if the follicle reseals and fills with fluid.

Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions that affect hormone levels, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can lead to multiple cyst formation. Women with PCOS often develop numerous small cysts on their ovaries due to hormonal irregularities affecting ovulation.

Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. When this tissue attaches to the ovaries, it can form endometriomas or “chocolate cysts” filled with old menstrual blood.

Pregnancy: Early in pregnancy, a corpus luteum cyst normally forms to support the pregnancy until the placenta develops. Occasionally, this cyst persists and grows larger than expected.

Severe Pelvic Infections: Infections can spread to the ovaries and fallopian tubes, potentially leading to cyst formation as part of the body’s inflammatory response.

Previous Ovarian Cysts: If you’ve had ovarian cysts before, you’re more likely to develop them again in the future.

Prevention and Risk Reduction

While not all ovarian cysts can be prevented, especially those that form as part of the normal menstrual cycle, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and promote ovarian health:

Regular Gynecological Examinations: Routine pelvic exams allow your healthcare provider to detect ovarian cysts early, even before symptoms develop. Early detection enables monitoring and timely intervention if necessary.

Monitor Your Menstrual Cycle: Keep track of your periods, noting any irregularities, unusual pain, or changes in bleeding patterns. This information helps you and your doctor identify potential issues early.

Consider Hormonal Birth Control: For women who frequently develop functional cysts, hormonal contraceptives may help prevent new cysts from forming by preventing ovulation. Discuss this option with your healthcare provider to determine if it’s appropriate for your situation.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is associated with hormonal imbalances that can increase the risk of developing certain types of ovarian cysts, particularly in women with PCOS. A balanced diet and regular exercise support hormonal health.

Be Aware of Family History: Some conditions that increase ovarian cyst risk, such as PCOS and endometriosis, can run in families. If you have a family history of these conditions, inform your healthcare provider so they can monitor you more closely.

Don’t Ignore Symptoms: If you experience any signs of ovarian cysts, seek medical attention promptly. Early evaluation and management can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can ovarian cysts go away on their own?

Yes, many ovarian cysts, especially functional cysts, resolve spontaneously within a few menstrual cycles without any treatment. Your doctor may recommend watchful waiting with follow-up ultrasounds to monitor the cyst’s progression.

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

Ovarian cysts are typically diagnosed through pelvic examination and confirmed with imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. Blood tests may also be performed to check hormone levels or tumor markers.

Are ovarian cysts dangerous?

Most ovarian cysts are benign and harmless. However, complications such as rupture, torsion, or in rare cases, malignancy can occur. Large cysts or those causing severe symptoms require medical evaluation and possibly intervention.

Can you get pregnant if you have ovarian cysts?

Most ovarian cysts don’t affect fertility, and many women with cysts conceive naturally. However, certain types of cysts associated with conditions like PCOS or endometriosis may impact fertility and may require treatment.

What’s the difference between an ovarian cyst and ovarian cancer?

The vast majority of ovarian cysts are benign, especially in women of reproductive age. Ovarian cancer is rare and more common in postmenopausal women. Your doctor can perform tests to determine whether a cyst has characteristics that warrant further investigation.

How long does pain from a ruptured ovarian cyst last?

Pain from a ruptured ovarian cyst typically improves within a few days to a week as the body absorbs the released fluid. However, if pain is severe or accompanied by fever, heavy bleeding, or dizziness, immediate medical attention is necessary as these could indicate complications.

Can stress cause ovarian cysts?

While stress doesn’t directly cause ovarian cysts, it can affect hormone levels and menstrual cycles, potentially contributing to functional cyst formation. Managing stress through healthy lifestyle habits supports overall reproductive health.

Do all ovarian cysts cause symptoms?

No, many ovarian cysts are asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during routine examinations or imaging for other reasons. Symptoms typically occur when cysts grow large, rupture, or cause complications.

When should I see a doctor about ovarian cyst symptoms?

You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent pelvic pain, significant changes in menstrual patterns, abdominal bloating that doesn’t resolve, or pain during intercourse. Seek emergency care for sudden, severe abdominal pain, fever with pelvic pain, dizziness, or signs of shock.

References:

• Mayo Clinic – Ovarian Cysts
• Office on Women’s Health – Ovarian Cysts
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – Ovarian Cysts
• NHS – Ovarian Cyst
• Cleveland Clinic – Ovarian Cysts