Written by Dr. Avani Reddy, MBBS, MS OBG
Updated 2025-07-01
What Are Ovarian Cysts?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or inside an ovary. They are extremely common - most women will have an ovarian cyst at some point in their lives. The majority of ovarian cysts are functional (related to the normal menstrual cycle) and resolve on their own within 1–3 menstrual cycles without treatment. When a cyst does not resolve, grows large, causes symptoms, or has features that raise concern, further investigation or treatment is needed. Dr. Avani Reddy provides expert ovarian cyst evaluation and management at Kokapet and Gachibowli, Hyderabad.
- Functional cysts - follicular cysts (from an unreleased follicle) or corpus luteum cysts (from the follicle after ovulation); most common type; usually resolve spontaneously
- Endometriomas - ovarian cysts caused by endometriosis; filled with old blood (chocolate cysts)
- Dermoid cysts (teratomas) - contain tissue such as hair, skin, teeth; congenital; slow-growing but require surgical removal
- Cystadenomas - arise from ovarian surface tissue; can grow large; serous or mucinous types
- Polycystic ovaries - multiple small follicles visible on ultrasound in PCOS; not true cysts
- Ovarian cancer - rarely, a complex cyst may represent malignancy; evaluated with ultrasound characteristics, tumour markers (CA-125), and surgical assessment
Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts
Most ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and are found incidentally during an ultrasound for another reason. When symptoms do occur, they include:
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain - dull ache or pressure on the side of the cyst
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen
- Pain during intercourse
- Irregular periods or heavier-than-usual bleeding
- Frequent urination if the cyst presses on the bladder
- Sudden severe pain if the cyst ruptures (torsion or rupture is a surgical emergency)
- Nausea and vomiting with severe pain (suggests ovarian torsion)
Diagnosis and Monitoring of Ovarian Cysts in Hyderabad
Ovarian cysts are evaluated with transvaginal ultrasound, which assesses the size, content, and characteristics of the cyst (simple, complex, solid components, blood flow). Blood tests - CA-125, CEA, AFP, inhibin - are ordered for cysts with complex features. The IOTA or ADNEX classification system guides assessment of malignancy risk. Most simple cysts under 5 cm in pre-menopausal women are observed with repeat ultrasound after 3 months. Complex or persistent cysts require surgical evaluation.
Treatment Options for Ovarian Cysts in Hyderabad
Treatment depends on the type, size, symptoms, and characteristics of the cyst.
- Watchful waiting - for simple functional cysts under 5 cm; repeat ultrasound in 6–12 weeks; most resolve spontaneously
- Hormonal treatment - combined oral contraceptive pill may suppress new cyst formation but does not dissolve existing cysts
- Laparoscopic cystectomy - keyhole removal of the cyst wall while preserving the ovary; preferred for persistent, symptomatic, or complex cysts; maintains ovarian function and fertility
- Drainage - aspiration of cyst contents under ultrasound guidance; high recurrence rate; limited role
- Oophorectomy - removal of the ovary if the cyst is suspicious for malignancy, very large, or the ovary cannot be salvaged; done with frozen section histology
- Emergency laparoscopy/laparotomy - for ovarian torsion (a twisted ovary is a surgical emergency requiring immediate intervention)
Why choose Dr. Avani Reddy in Hyderabad?
- Obstetrician, gynecologist & fertility doctor with 10+ years of experience
- Expert ultrasound-guided assessment - differentiates benign from concerning cysts
- Fertility-preserving laparoscopic cystectomy - ovarian tissue protected where possible
- Integrated endometriosis management for endometriomas
- Emergency surgical access for ovarian torsion
- Kokapet and Gachibowli locations for accessible follow-up ultrasound
- Clear communication about monitoring intervals and warning signs
Frequently asked questions
Should every ovarian cyst be operated on?+
No. Most ovarian cysts in pre-menopausal women are functional and resolve without treatment within 1–3 menstrual cycles. Surgery is recommended for cysts that are persistent (not resolving after 3 months), growing, causing significant symptoms, have complex features on ultrasound, or are suspected to be endometriomas or dermoid cysts.
Can an ovarian cyst affect my fertility?+
Most ovarian cysts do not affect fertility. Endometriomas (chocolate cysts) are the exception - they can reduce ovarian reserve and impair egg quality. Large functional cysts may temporarily affect a fertility treatment cycle. After laparoscopic cystectomy, ovarian function and fertility are generally preserved, though there is a small risk of reducing ovarian reserve with repeat surgery.
What is a chocolate cyst?+
A chocolate cyst (endometrioma) is an ovarian cyst caused by endometriosis. Old blood accumulates in the cyst, giving it the characteristic dark, chocolate-coloured appearance. Endometriomas are associated with reduced ovarian reserve, fertility impairment, and chronic pelvic pain. Laparoscopic removal (cystectomy) is the standard treatment.
Can an ovarian cyst rupture and how do I know?+
Yes, ovarian cysts can rupture. A ruptured cyst typically causes sudden, severe one-sided lower abdominal pain, which may be accompanied by nausea and shoulder tip pain. Small ruptures often resolve on their own with pain management. Large haemorrhagic ruptures causing significant internal bleeding require emergency surgery. If you experience sudden severe abdominal pain, go to the nearest emergency department.
What is ovarian torsion and is it dangerous?+
Ovarian torsion occurs when the ovary twists on its supporting ligaments, cutting off its blood supply. It is a gynaecological emergency causing sudden, severe, one-sided lower abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting. Emergency laparoscopy to untwist the ovary is required urgently - delay can result in permanent loss of the ovary. Cysts over 5 cm increase the risk of torsion.
How long does laparoscopic ovarian cyst removal surgery take?+
Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy typically takes 30–60 minutes. Simple cysts take less time; endometriomas and large cysts may require longer. Most women go home within 24 hours and return to light activities within 7–10 days.
Is CA-125 a reliable test for ovarian cancer?+
CA-125 is a useful marker but is not specific for ovarian cancer - it is elevated in many benign conditions including endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic infection, and normal pregnancy. CA-125 is interpreted together with ultrasound characteristics, menopausal status, and clinical features. A raised CA-125 alone does not mean cancer.
Where can I find an ovarian cyst specialist in Hyderabad near Kondapur?+
Dr. Avani Reddy provides ovarian cyst evaluation and treatment at Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli (serving Kondapur, Banjara Hills, Hitech City) and Jade Clinics, Kokapet (serving Narsingi, Financial District, Manikonda). Book at 83095 78197.
Can ovarian cysts go away on their own?+
Yes. Functional ovarian cysts - follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts - frequently resolve spontaneously within 1–3 menstrual cycles without any treatment. A repeat ultrasound at 6–12 weeks confirms resolution. Structural cysts such as endometriomas and dermoid cysts do not resolve on their own and require surgical management.
What happens if I leave an ovarian cyst untreated?+
A functional cyst that is being monitored and shows no warning features is safe to observe. However, an untreated endometrioma can progressively damage the ovary and reduce fertility. A growing dermoid cyst increases the risk of torsion. Complex cysts that are not evaluated may harbour malignancy that is best treated early. Regular follow-up with your gynaecologist is important for any persistent cyst.
Where can I get ovarian cyst treatment in Hyderabad?+
Dr. Avani Reddy is an obstetrician, gynecologist, and fertility doctor with 10+ years of experience (MBBS · MS OBG · Fellowship Reproductive Medicine · Diploma in ART), practising at Jade Clinics, Kokapet and Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli. Book at 83095 78197 or online via TDAppointments.
Is ovarian cyst treatment available near Kokapet and Gachibowli?+
Yes. Consultations are available at Jade Clinics, Kokapet and Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli, with patients travelling from Financial District, Kondapur, Hitech City, Narsingi, Manikonda, and across Hyderabad.
Who is a good obstetrician gynecologist for ovarian cyst treatment in Hyderabad?+
Dr. Avani Reddy is an obstetrician, gynecologist, and fertility doctor with 10+ years of experience (MBBS · MS OBG · Fellowship Reproductive Medicine · Diploma in ART), practising at Jade Clinics, Kokapet and Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli. She focuses on ovarian cyst treatment with personalised plans and transparent next steps.
Related treatments
Serving all of Hyderabad
Dr. Avani Reddy provides ovarian cyst treatment in hyderabad for patients across Hyderabad - including Kokapet, Gachibowli, Financial District, Narsingi, Manikonda, Gandipet, Nanakramguda, Puppalaguda, Khajaguda, HiTech City, Kondapur, Madhapur, Banjara Hills, Jubilee Hills, Miyapur, Hitech City. Locations at Jade Clinics, Kokapet and Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli.
Last updated: July 2025. Written by Dr. Avani Reddy, MBBS, MS OBG - obstetrician, gynecologist and fertility doctor with 10+ years experience.