​Ovarian Cyst

Ovaries are part of the female reproductive system responsible for producing mature eggs every month during a woman’s childbearing years. Ovarian cysts are sacs that sometimes form on or inside the ovaries.  These are very common, and most women have them at some point in their lives. These are usually symptom-less and go undetected, and get noticed only during pelvic examinations.

Most ovarian cysts form as part of the normal menstrual cycle and develop into cysts if they keep on expanding instead of rupturing as part of the cycle. These cysts are usually harmless, and shrink themselves, without treatment, within one or two months. However, they can cause serious problems if they twist, bleed or rupture. Ovarian cysts can also become cancerous in post-menopausal women.

When to seek expert advise

The symptoms for ovarian cysts are common with other medical conditions, but if any of these are experienced, it is best to consult a Obstetrics and Gynaecology​ physician at The Aga Khan University Hospital. While harmless in most cases, these cysts can create problems when there is danger of them being ruptured, or when the patient is in her post-menopausal phase.