Ovarian cysts

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled pocket inside or on the surface of the ovary. Functional ovarian cysts are those that form during the monthly menstrual cycle and are not the same as cysts caused by cancer or other diseases. Functional ovarian cysts usually do not require treatment, but there are ways to manage symptoms or remove dangerous cysts, if necessary.

Women have two ovaries located on either side of the uterus. Eggs develop and mature in the ovaries and are released in monthly cycles. Many women have ovarian cysts at different times in their lives, especially during childbearing years. Ovarian cysts are less common after menopause.

Two types

There are two types of functional cysts that may form during the menstrual cycle. The first is when a follicle grows on the ovary, where an egg is developing, but does not release an egg. When this happens, fluid forms a cyst inside the follicle. The second type occurs after an egg has been released from a follicle, called a corpus luteum cyst.

A woman can develop more than one cyst, and they can vary in size. Ovarian cysts can be full of fluid, blood, or solid material. They usually are harmless and go away within a few months. However, ovarian cysts that have grown large or have ruptured can cause serious symptoms. Some cysts may cause twisting of the ovary and severe pain, and those that bleed or rupture can lead to serious problems.

If you have frequent ovarian cysts, your provider may prescribe birth control pills (oral contraceptives). These pills may reduce the risk of developing new cysts, but they do not reduce the size of current cysts. In some cases, existing cysts may need to be surgically removed.

Why choose UAB Medicine

UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology offers complete women’s healthcare, delivered by physicians and nurses dedicated to excellence. Our doctors are nationally recognized specialists in their fields, so you can rest assured that you are receiving the most advanced care available. Our program is consistently ranked among the best of its kind in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

As part of the UAB Division of Women’s Reproductive Healthcare, UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology provides services ranging from complete obstetric care to the medical and surgical treatment of complex gynecological concerns. Because UAB Medicine is a major center for research, patients may have access to promising new techniques and treatments not available at other medical centers. Our physicians are here for you at every stage of life – from your first gynecological exam and delivering your baby to helping guide you through menopause.

Care Providers

Margaret Boozer, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology Warner Huh, MD, FACOG, FACS Gynecologic Oncology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Audra Williams, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology

Videos

Resources

• UAB Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
• O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center
• National Ovarian Cancer Coalition
• Ovarian Cyst
• Obstetrics & Gynecology Services
• UAB Women & Infants Center
• Women & Infants Services at UAB 

Related Specialties

• Ovarian Removal
• Ovarian Cyst
• Cystectomy