Hearing that you have an ovarian cyst can be worrying. Many cysts are common, noncancerous, and temporary. Others need monitoring or treatment. Davie ObGyn can help explain what the findings mean and what comes next.
Understanding Ovarian Cysts
What is an ovarian cyst?
A cyst is a sac that develops in or on an ovary. Some form during the normal menstrual cycle. Others arise from different types of tissue or conditions such as endometriosis.
Common symptoms and red flags
Many cysts cause no symptoms. Others may cause:
- One-sided pelvic discomfort.
- Bloating or pressure.
- Pain during sex or certain activities.
- Sudden pain if a cyst ruptures or the ovary twists.
When to get urgent care: Sudden severe pelvic pain, especially with nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or fainting, needs emergency assessment.
ACOG describes ovarian cyst symptoms and complications.
Why an in-person evaluation matters
Symptoms cannot tell us what kind of cyst is present. Ultrasound helps assess its size and appearance. Age, menopause status, and medical history also affect what follow-up is appropriate.
What to Expect During Your Visit
- Review pain, periods, pregnancy possibility, and prior scans.
- Discuss an abdominal or pelvic exam when indicated.
- Consider on-site ultrasound to assess the ovaries.
- Decide whether repeat imaging or selected blood tests are needed.
A blood test such as CA-125 cannot diagnose or rule out ovarian cancer by itself. It is not a routine screening test for everyone. ACOG explains cyst evaluation.
Monitoring and Treatment Options
- Observation: Many simple cysts resolve without treatment.
- Repeat ultrasound: Checks whether a cyst changes or disappears.
- Symptom relief: Medication may help appropriate patients.
- Surgery: May be considered for a persistent, concerning, large, or painful cyst.
When surgery is needed, your physician considers whether the ovary can be preserved and whether a specialist should be involved. The Office on Women’s Health reviews cyst management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an ovarian cyst mean cancer?
No. Most are benign, but some findings need further evaluation.
Can birth control make an existing cyst disappear?
Birth control pills do not make an existing functional cyst resolve faster. Some methods may help prevent new ovulation-related cysts.
Can a cyst affect fertility?
Many do not. The type of cyst, underlying condition, and any needed treatment matter.
Do cysts after menopause need attention?
Yes. Assessment differs after menopause, even though many cysts are still benign. The Office on Women’s Health explains these distinctions.
Local Evaluation With On-Site Ultrasound
Davie ObGyn offers board-certified care and on-site ultrasound for patients in Davie, Cooper City, Weston, Plantation, and Pembroke Pines.
For an emergency, call 911. Not sure what you need? See our patient resource center.
Medically reviewed by Rahil Malik, MD, FACOG, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. Last reviewed: September 26, 2026. This page is general information and does not replace a visit with your doctor.