Ovarian cyst

Definitions

Description

A solid or fluid-filled sac or pocket, called a cyst, in or on an ovary.

Overview

Ovarian cysts are sacs in or on an ovary. The sacs usually are filled with fluid, but they can be solid. Most ovarian cysts go away on their own in a few months. If they don't, they can cause complications.

Symptoms

Most ovarian cysts cause no symptoms. But a large one can cause pelvic pain and bloating. A cyst that grows after menopause can be cancer and needs medical attention.

Treatments

Birth control pills might keep more cysts from forming. Surgery can remove large cysts.