Ovarian Cyst Symptoms and Warning Signs

What is an ovarian cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops in or on an ovary.

Functional cysts are linked to ovulation and can form during the cycle and go away on their own. But other cysts can be linked with endometriosis, dermoid cysts or benign ovarian growths.

In some cases, ovarian cysts may need specialist review to rule out more serious causes, especially if symptoms are occurring after menopause or if an ultrasound shows complex features.

Ovarian cyst symptoms

Ovarian cysts can cause no symptoms at all, or may include symptoms such as:

• Pelvic pain
• A dull ache on one side
• Bloating
• A feeling of fullness
• Pain during or after sex
• Period changes
• Pain before or during a period
• Pressure on the bladder or bowel
• Passing urine more than usual
• Lower back or thigh discomfort

These symptoms can also come from endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic infection, bowel concerns, bladder concerns or pelvic floor problems. Ongoing pelvic pain should always be assessed.

When to book with your gynaecologist

Ask your GP for a referral and book in a specialist assessment if pelvic pain keeps returning, affects work, exercise, sex, sleep or daily life or feels different from your normal period pain.

A specialist consultation is also worthwhile if you have bloating that does not settle, heavy or unusual bleeding, pain during sex, pressure symptoms or pain on one side of the pelvis.

If an ovarian cyst has been found on imaging, your appointment will cover what it means for you and the next steps based on your symptoms, age, cyst size, ultrasound appearance, medical history and fertility plans.

Warning signs that you may need urgent care

A routine appointment is not the right choice for sudden or severe symptoms. Please seek urgent medical care if you are experiencing:

• Sudden severe pelvic pain
• Severe abdominal pain
• Pain with nausea or vomiting
• Faintness or dizziness
• Fever
• Shoulder tip pain
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Pain that rapidly gets worse

These symptoms can occur if a cyst ruptures, bleeds or contributes to ovarian torsion. Ovarian torsion means the ovary twists and can cut off its blood supply and is a gynaecological emergency.

If your symptoms are severe, call 000 or go directly to the nearest emergency department.

Does a cyst mean cancer?

Most ovarian cysts are not cancer. A cyst still needs proper review when the ultrasound shows complex features, the cyst is growing, symptoms persist, blood tests are abnormal or the cyst is found after menopause.

Cancer risk assessment usually includes ultrasound features, symptoms, age, menopausal status and blood test results. Your doctor may refer you to a gynaecologist if the cyst needs more detailed assessment or management.

Do not be alarmed, but avoid dismissing symptoms or imaging findings that need follow-up.

Ovarian cyst treatment

Treatment is based on the type of cyst, its size, symptoms, ultrasound appearance and your life stage.

A simple cyst with mild symptoms may be monitored with repeat ultrasound. Pain relief may be discussed if symptoms are uncomfortable and the cyst is likely to settle.

Hormonal treatment may be considered in selected cases, especially if cysts are linked with the menstrual cycle or another condition such as endometriosis, and based on your health history and treatment goals.

Surgery may be discussed if a cyst is large, painful, complex, persistent, growing or causing concern.

Ovarian cyst surgery

Ovarian cyst removal can usually be performed with laparoscopic surgery, also known as keyhole surgery. This uses small cuts in the abdomen, a camera and specialised instruments.

Open surgery may be needed if the cyst is very large, complex or linked with features that require a different surgical plan.

Your surgical planning and the approach, with Dr Kelly Hankins, will be tailored to the cyst, your symptoms, your age, your fertility plans and the safest way to manage your condition.

Cysts and fertility

Many ovarian cysts do not affect fertility, such as functional cysts that commonly settle without long-term impact.

Endometriomas are cysts linked with endometriosis. They may be part of a broader condition that can affect pelvic pain, periods and fertility. Large cysts or repeated ovarian surgery can also be relevant when discussing ovarian reserve.

If you are trying to conceive, planning pregnancy, considering fertility treatment or concerned about ovarian reserve, raise this during your appointment. Fertility plans can change how monitoring or treatment is discussed.

Gynaecology care North Gosford

If you have been told you have an ovarian cyst, or you are dealing with pelvic pain, bloating, pressure or cycle changes, a gynaecology assessment with Dr Kelly Hankins can help explain what is happening and what the next steps are to manage your condition.

Seeing a gynaecologist does not always mean something is wrong. It can be a great step for when symptoms are affecting your life, when your cycle has changed or when you want clear advice about your reproductive health.

Dr Kelly Hankins provides care for women on the Central Coast with ovarian cysts, pelvic pain and related gynaecological concerns in North Gosford.

 

References

Jean Hailes. (2026). Polyps And Ovarian Cysts. https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-topics/ovaries-and-uterus/ovarian-cysts/

Mayo Clinic. (2023). Ovarian Cysts - Symptoms and Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cysts/symptoms-causes/syc-20353405

Healthdirect Australia. (2026). Ovarian torsion - adnexal torsion, symptoms. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/ovarian-torsion

 

Dr Kelly Hankins (MED0001774024) is a FRANZCOG qualified Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. All surgery carries risks and results may vary. Consult with Dr Kelly Hankins to determine a personalised treatment plan and support an informed decision-making process.