Ovarian cysts are common and usually harmless. These fluid-filled sacs form on or inside the ovaries and often go away on their own. However, some cysts can grow larger, cause symptoms or lead to serious health problems.

Understanding the types of ovarian cysts, their symptoms and what size of ovarian cyst is dangerous can help you take control of your health.

“Ovarian cysts are a typical part of a woman's reproductive health,” says Melissa Mesenburg, board-certified family nurse practitioner with Beaufort Memorial Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialists. “While most are benign and resolve without intervention, it's essential to remain vigilant.”

What Are Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are quite common among women of reproductive age. An ovarian cyst develops in or on an ovary, usually during ovulation, which happens every month and is when an ovary releases an egg. Most cysts are linked to the menstrual cycle and often disappear within a few weeks. However, some cysts can grow larger or require treatment.

What Are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts?

Most ovarian cysts don’t cause symptoms, especially if they are small. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Abdominal pain or pressure, often on one side. The pain may be sharp or dull, and may come and go
• Problems completely emptying your bladder or bowel
• A dull ache in your lower back and thighs
• Bloating or feeling full
• Changes in your menstrual cycle
• Pain during sex
• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Nausea or vomiting, especially if the cyst ruptures or twists

In rare cases, a cyst can cause ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists around its blood supply. This is a medical emergency and can cause sudden, severe pain, nausea and vomiting.

Common Types of Ovarian Cysts

While many cysts are harmless and may resolve on their own, understanding the various types can help in recognizing potential symptoms and seeking appropriate medical advice. Some of the most common types of ovarian cysts include:

• Corpus luteum cysts, which occur when the follicle does not shrink after releasing an egg.
• Cysts from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), characterized by multiple small cysts on the ovaries.
• Dermoid cysts, which contain tissue such as skin or hair.
• Endometriomas, which result from endometriosis, where the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
• Functional cysts: Cysts that form during ovulation and are the most common type.
• Follicular cysts, which occur when a follicle doesn’t release an egg.

“Cysts are common, and most are benign or non-cancerous. Knowing the type and size is important to determine if they could cause problems in the future,” Mesenburg says.

Cancerous, or malignant cysts, are rare and are more common in older women. Cysts that are cancerous are considered ovarian cancer. Ovarian cysts are less common after a woman goes through menopause, but postmenopausal women who do have ovarian cysts are at higher risk for ovarian cancer.

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What Size of Ovarian Cyst Is Dangerous?

The size of a cyst plays a big role in how risky it is, but most cysts are manageable and non-cancerous, or benign:

• Small cysts (1/2-2 inches): These are usually harmless and may not require treatment.
• Medium-sized cysts (2-4 inches): These may need ongoing monitoring, especially if they are causing symptoms.
• Large cysts (over 4 inches): These can cause serious problems, such as:
  • Ovarian torsion, which can damage the ovary and is a medical emergency
  • Pressure on nearby organs, like the bladder or bowel
  • A higher chance of rupturing, which can lead to sudden pain and internal bleeding and is a medical emergency

Regular pelvic exams are important for keeping track of cyst size and catching potential problems early. If you notice symptoms or are concerned about a cyst, contact your women’s health provider.

What Causes Ovarian Cysts?

While ovarian cysts can happen to anyone with ovaries, certain factors can make them more likely:

• Hormonal imbalances: This can cause functional cysts to form.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A condition where many small cysts form on the ovaries.
• Family history: Dermoid cysts may be a genetic occurrence from a parent who has had them in the past.
• Pregnancy: Some cysts develop during early pregnancy, and they’re often harmless.
• Personal medical history: A history of ovarian cysts or cyst development in the past.

Taking birth control pills can prevent functional cysts by stopping monthly ovulation. However, this won’t prevent non-functional cysts, like dermoid cysts.

How Are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed and Treated?

Most ovarian cysts are found during routine pelvic exams. If your health care provider suspects a cyst, they may recommend an ultrasound — an imaging test that shows the size and type of a cyst — and blood tests to help rule out cancer, although most cysts are benign.

If you are diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, treatment may include:

• Watchful waiting: Small cysts often go away on their own. Your women’s health provider may suggest monitoring the cyst with follow-up ultrasound tests.
• Medication: Birth control pills can prevent new cysts from forming.
• Surgery: Larger cysts, cysts causing symptoms, or those with unusual features may need to be removed surgically.

If a cyst ruptures or leads to severe symptoms, immediate care is required.

Read More: Protect Your Health by Knowing the Signs of Cervical Cancer

Why OBGYN Wellness Exams Are Important

Routine gynecology visits are one of the best ways to detect and manage ovarian cysts before they become dangerous.

“Regular pelvic exams help track cyst size and identify signs of complications,” Mesenburg says. “These visits are also an opportunity to discuss symptoms like pelvic pain or irregular periods with a women’s health provider. Early detection can prevent more serious issues and protect your overall health.”

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about ovarian cysts or treatment, it’s important to talk to a women’s health care provider. Request an appointment with a women’s health provider at Beaufort Memorial today.