Causes of ovarian cysts

Written by Xia Hu
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on December 11, 2024
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There are several common causes of ovarian cysts. The first is during the ovulation process where the follicle fails to release an egg, resulting in the formation of follicular cysts. The ultrasound typically shows these as simple cysts containing follicular fluid. Another situation is the corpus luteum cyst, which occurs after ovulation when the ovary forms a wound surface and a corpus luteum. Cysts can also develop during the growth of the corpus luteum. These two types of cysts generally disappear after the next menstrual period and are considered physiological cysts that usually require no treatment. However, some cysts result from pathological changes in ovarian cells, or even from tumors. On an ultrasound, these appear differently, often as mixed composition masses, in which case surgical treatment is recommended.

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Can ovarian cysts cause infertility?

Women with ovarian chocolate cysts may experience effects on their reproductive function. When the cysts are small, they typically do not significantly impact fertility. However, as the cysts grow in size, they can compress the normal ovarian tissue, causing ovulatory disorders and leading to infertility. Additionally, certain types of ovarian cysts, such as chocolate cysts, can cause adhesions in the female pelvic area. For instance, they may result in abnormal fallopian tube function, leading to infertility due to tubal factors. These cysts may also alter the pelvic environment, making conception difficult. If the ovarian cysts are malignant or capable of secreting hormones, they can also affect normal ovulation, leading to infertility.

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Is an adnexal cyst an ovarian cyst?

In clinical terms, the adnexa include the fallopian tubes and ovaries, so an adnexal cyst is not solely an ovarian cyst; rather, ovarian cysts are just one type of adnexal cyst. Adnexal cysts can also include fallopian tube cysts, but in clinical practice, most adnexal cysts are manifestations of ovarian cysts. Therefore, when patients hear the term "adnexal cyst," they should further inquire whether it is an ovarian cyst, instead of simply assuming it to be one.

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malignant symptoms of ovarian cysts

Malignant ovarian cysts, commonly known as ovarian cancer, often present with no symptoms in most people. Patients generally do not exhibit any specific symptoms. In advanced stages, however, symptoms such as ascites and abdominal swelling or pain may occur due to the cyst pressing on other organs in the abdomen. Initially, these symptoms might be mistaken for gastrointestinal issues, hence the importance of undergoing a gynecological ultrasound examination. In early stages, ovarian tumors may not show any symptoms, so it is recommended that women undergo tumor marker tests, such as CA125 and HE4, as well as routine ultrasound examinations.

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Do ovarian cysts hurt?

Most ovarian cysts do not cause abdominal pain, especially when they are small and benign. However, some patients with ovarian cysts may experience abdominal pain symptoms. For example, endometriotic cysts, also known as chocolate cysts, can cause severe lower abdominal pain, particularly manifesting as menstrual-like abdominal pain. When these pain symptoms occur, the primary reason patients initially visit local hospitals is to undergo medical examination for the condition.

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How to check for ovarian cysts?

Firstly, in gynecological outpatient clinics, an ovarian cyst requires examination through a gynecological color ultrasound, which can clearly determine the presence of an ovarian cyst, or evaluate the size and echo of the ovarian cyst to assess the severity of the condition. Additionally, a gynecological examination can also be performed to confirm the presence of an ovarian cyst. The main purpose is to assess the severity of the ovarian cyst disease through palpation.