In most cases, ovarian cysts do not cause any symptoms.
You will usually only have symptoms if you have a cyst that:
- ruptures (splits)
- is very large
- blocks the blood supply to the ovaries (torsion)
In these cases, you may have the following symptoms:
- pelvic pain - which can range from a dull heavy sensation (associated with large cysts) to a sudden, sharp pain (associated with a ruptured cyst or torsion)
- pelvic pain during sexual intercourse
- difficulty emptying your bowels
- a frequent need to urinate
- changes to your normal menstruation - you may have heavy periods, irregular periods or lighter periods than normal
- a feeling of fullness and bloating
- indigestion or feeling very full even though you have only eaten a little
- light-headedness or dizziness
- extreme tiredness (fatigue)
When to seek medical advice
You should contact your GP if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. If this is not possible, telephone your local out-of-hours service or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
