At MU Health Care, our specialists provide expert evaluation and personalized treatment options to help you manage ovarian cysts.

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or within an ovary. While they are often harmless and go away on their own, some cysts can cause pain, bloating or other complications.

Whether they require monitoring, medication or surgical intervention, our goal is to ensure your comfort and reproductive health with dedicated, expert care.

Ovarian Cyst Symptoms

Ovarian cysts may result from hormonal changes, pregnancy, endometriosis or underlying medical conditions. Many ovarian cysts are asymptomatic, or without symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they can include: 

  • Bloating or pressure in the lower abdomen
  • Frequent urination if the cyst presses on the bladder
  • Irregular menstrual cycles or periods that are heavier or lighter than usual
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Pelvic pain ranging from dull to sharp, often on one side
  • Sudden, severe pain if the cyst ruptures

Types of Ovarian Cysts

Not all ovarian cysts are the same. Common types include:

Functional Cysts (Most Common)

  • Corpus luteum cysts: Develop after ovulation and typically resolve on their own
  • Follicular cysts: Form when an egg doesn’t release properly

Pathological Cysts

  • Dermoid cysts: Contain tissue like hair or fat and may require removal
  • Endometriomas: Associated with endometriosis, often causing pain and infertility

Other Types

  • Cystadenomas: Fluid-filled and may grow large
  • Polycystic ovaries: Seen in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), affecting hormone levels

Ovarian Cyst Diagnosis at MU Health Care

At your visit, our team will:

  • Review your medical history and symptoms
  • Perform a pelvic exam to check for abnormalities
  • Order imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI or CT scan if needed
  • Conduct blood tests to rule out cancerous cysts (CA-125 test for certain cases)

Early diagnosis helps determine the best course of action for your care.

How We Treat Ovarian Cysts at MU Health Care

Treatment depends on the cyst type, size and symptoms.

Monitoring and Medications

  • Many cysts resolve on their own with time.
  • Birth control pills may prevent new cysts from forming.
  • Pain management strategies can help with mild discomfort.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Aspiration: Drains the cyst if it is fluid-filled and causing pain.
  • Laparoscopic Cystectomy: Removes the cyst while preserving the ovary.

Surgical Removal

  • Laparotomy: A larger incision for complex cysts or those that may be cancerous.
  • Oophorectomy: Removal of the ovary in severe cases.

Our team, which includes the only doctors in central Missouri certified in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, prioritizes minimally invasive approaches, to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.

 

Related Conditions & Treatments