Ovarian Cyst Treatment in Delhi, India

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs in an ovary or on the surface of the ovary. They develop during the normal course of the menstrual cycle and are usually harmless, causing little to no discomfort. Most resolve on their own without requiring any treatment. However, some may cause problems if they present with serious symptoms, such as extreme pain or bleeding, torsion or rupture. If the cyst becomes a cause for concern, medical treatment is necessary.

Functional Cysts

Functional cysts develop during the normal menstrual cycle and are typically harmless. Most resolve on their own within 2-3 months. The two types of functional cysts include:

• Follicular cyst: It is a common, noncancerous, usually harmless type of ovarian cyst that forms as a normal part of menstrual cycle. It occurs when an egg-containing sac (follicle) in the ovary fails to rupture and release the egg during ovulation, continuing instead to fill with fluid.
• Corpus luteal cyst: A common, noncancerous, fluid filled sac that forms on the ovary after the egg is released during ovulation. It is a type of functional ovarian cyst. During the menstrual cycle, after the egg is released from a follicle, the empty follicle transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum’s primary role is to produce hormones, especially progesterone, to prepare the uterus for a potential pregnancy.

Other Cysts

Cysts that develop independently of the menstrual cycle are classified as non-functional cysts.

• Skin and skin cells
• Hair and hair follicles
• Sebaceous and sweat glands
• Fatty tissue
• Dermoid cyst: A dermoid cyst, also known as a teratoma, develops from germ cells (cells that turn into an egg), they are typically benign. They are unique because they contain a variety of mature tissues and glands normally found in the outer layers of the skin (ectoderm):
• Cystadenoma: Cystadenoma is a benign tumor that arises from the glandular epithelial tissue and forms a fluid filled structure. it is characterized by one or more fluid-filled sacs lined by epithelial cells.

  TYPES:

  Serous cystadenoma

  Mucinous cystadenoma

  Other types- include endometrioid and clear cell cystadenoma

• Endometrioma: In endometriosis, the cells lining the inside of the uterus begin to grow outside the uterus. An endometrioma commonly referred to as a “chocolate cyst” is an ovarian cyst that develops when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows on the ovaries.

Ovarian cysts form due to abnormal cell growth or hormonal imbalances in the ovaries. In addition, conditions like endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease can also lead to development of cysts.

The risk of developing a cyst can increase based on the following factors:

• Age: Ovarian cysts are more common up until a woman reaches the age of menopause.
• Hormonal problems: Hormonal imbalance affects the normal ovulation process and can result in cyst development.
• Endometriosis: Having endometriosis puts a person at a greater risk for developing endometrioma, a type of cyst.
• Past history: A history of previously diagnosed ovarian cysts increases the risk of recurrence. 
• Pregnancy status: High levels of hormones namely, progesterone and oestrogen, during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing functional cysts.

Cysts generally do not cause any symptoms. If they do, they may include:

• Pelvic pain
• Irregular and / or painful periods
• Bloating
• Dull ache in the back
• Painful bowel movements
• Dyspareunia
• Severe pain with Nausea , vomiting , dizziness (Torsion of ovarian cyst)

The diagnosis of an ovarian cyst starts with the doctor asking questions about the pain intensity and other associated symptoms, after which the following tests will be performed to confirm the diagnosis:

Pelvic Exam

During a pelvic exam, the doctor checks for lumps or changes in the size and texture of the ovaries. If swelling is detected in the lower abdomen region (either side), the doctor will order an ultrasound to take a closer look at the insides of the uterus.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to produce an image of the internal organs. The tests help identify the size, location, and composition of the cyst.

Laparoscopy

A laparoscope, a thin, illuminated tube, is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision to directly visualise the cyst and assess its characteristics. If the cyst is found, it is removed immediately.

Blood Test

Serum Beta HCG to rule out pregnancy, CA-125 might be elevated in ovarian cancer but is non-specific, CBC to rule out infection, Hormone levels (FSH , LH, Estradiol, Testosterone).

If cancer is suspected, additional ovarian tumor markers may be adviced.

The treatment depends upon the type of the ovarian cyst and the severity of the symptoms.

Watchful Waiting

For small, asymptomatic cysts: Monitoring with follow-up pelvic ultrasounds is often the first step, as many functional cysts disappear on their own within a few months. 

For postmenopausal women: Persistent simple cysts smaller than 10 cm can be monitored with serial ultrasound if the tumor markers are normal.

Medicines

Combined oral contraceptive pills: Prevent new cyst formation by stopping ovulation, but they do not shrink cyst size.

Surgery

Surgical removal may be necessary for large cysts, complex cysts , or those causing severe symptoms that do not respond to medication , or are suspicious of malignancy.

Types of surgery:

Cystectomy: Removal of cyst, preserving the ovary is a preferred method for removing benign cysts while preserving fertility.

Oophorectomy: Removal of the entire ovary with the cyst, if indicated.

Surgical Approaches:

• Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive “keyhole surgery”, with a small incision, that offers advantages like less pain, minimal scarring and shorter recovery time.
• Laparotomy: A more invasive procedure involving a large abdominal incision, typically used for larger or potentially cancerous cysts, or when a cyst ruptures and causes internal bleeding.
• Robotic assisted surgery: A minimally invasive surgical procedure. It offers several advantages over traditional open surgery and potentially even standard laparoscopy. It is associated with less pain, minimal blood loss, fast recovery, enhanced precision and low risk of complications. It is a safe and feasible approach for selected patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery for ovarian malignancy.

There are a few complications associated with ovarian cysts. These include:

• Ovarian Torsion: Ovarian torsion occurs when a large cyst causes the ovary to twist on itself, cutting off its blood supply and potentially moving it from its original position. It can lead to severe pain, reduced blood flow, and potential loss of ovarian function if not treated promptly.
• Cyst Rupture: A ruptured cyst causes severe pain and bleeding in the pelvis. The risk of rupture increases with the size of the cyst, potentially leading to pelvic pain, internal bleeding, and infection.
• Malignant / Cancerous Cyst: If a cyst is suspected to be malignant, management becomes more complex and often involves referral to a specialist for surgical staging and further management.

Most ovarian cysts cannot be prevented. However, regular pelvic exams are essential for early detection of ovarian cysts and other abnormalities, allowing timely intervention.

For recurring ovarian cysts, the doctor may prescribe oral contraceptives to prevent ovulation and the formation of new cysts.

Monitor menstrual cycle changes closely, and report persistent irregularities or unusual symptoms, such as prolonged pain or heavy bleeding, to your doctor. Consult the doctor about any concerning changes.

How long do ovarian cysts usually take to go away on their own?

Most common ovarian cysts, such as follicular cysts, usually resolve within a few weeks to three months without treatment. These cysts are often linked to the menstrual cycle. However, if a cyst doesn’t go away or causes discomfort, it's best to consult a doctor to determine if treatment is needed.

Can ovarian cysts affect fertility?

While many ovarian cysts do not affect fertility, some types, such as those caused by endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can interfere with ovulation and fertility.

Are there lifestyle changes that can help manage ovarian cysts?

Although lifestyle changes cannot directly prevent ovarian cysts, certain habits, such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods may help manage cyst symptoms. Reducing stress, avoiding smoking, and limiting caffeine and alcohol can also be helpful.

How can I tell if an ovarian cyst has ruptured?

A ruptured ovarian cyst typically causes sudden, sharp, and severe pelvic pain. Other symptoms include bloating, nausea, or vomiting. Sometimes, light bleeding can occur. If you experience intense pain or feel dizzy or faint, seek medical help right away to avoid complications.

What types of ovarian cysts are more likely to cause complications?

Some ovarian cysts have a higher risk of complications. These include dermoid cysts, endometriomas, and large cysts or those growing on stalks (such as some cystadenomas). These cysts can cause ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists on itself. Additionally, cysts that develop after menopause require closer monitoring, as they are more likely to be cancerous.

Reviewed by Dr. Kanika Gupta, Principal Director – Surgical Oncology, Cancer Care / Gynecologic Oncology, Robotic Surgery, Gynaecologic Laparoscopy, on 09 December 2025.

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