Ovarian cysts

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Female reproductive anatomy

Ovarian cysts

Uterine anatomy

Uterus

Physiologic ovarian cysts; Functional ovarian cysts

• Pelvic pain - constant, dull aching
• Pain with intercourse or pelvic pain during movement
• Pain during bowel movements
• Pelvic pain shortly after beginning or ending a menstrual period
• Abnormal uterine bleeding (change from normal menstrual pattern)
  • Longer than usual menstrual cycle
  • Shorter than usual menstrual cycle
  • Absent menstruation
  • Irregular menstruation
• Abdominal bloating or swelling

Note: Often no symptoms are noted.

• Pelvic exam -- may reveal an ovarian enlargement or a cyst
• Ultrasound -- usually done first
• CT scan
• MRI
• Doppler flow studies

Blood tests may be ordered:

• Serum HCG ( pregnancy test ) -- may be done to rule out pregnancy
• Ca-125 -- an ovarian cancer marker that may help to identify cancerous cysts in older women
• Hormone levels (such as LH, FSH, estradiol, and testosterone) -- may be checked to evaluate for associated hormonal conditions

Review Date: 06/20/2006
Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.