Health information to help you understand symptoms. It isn't a diagnosis.About OwieClear
Check symptoms

Ovarian cyst

Also called: Ovarian cyst

A fluid sac on an ovary. Most are harmless and go away on their own.

TypeSac on the ovary
UsuallyHarmless
DangerSudden severe pain

Overview

Most form during normal ovulation.

Most ovarian cysts form during normal ovulation and go away in 1 to 3 months.

A cyst can twist the ovary (torsion), which causes sudden severe pain and is an emergency.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Pelvic pain on one side
  • Pelvic or lower belly pain

Less common

  • Bloating

Look up a symptom: Bloating or gas · Lower left belly pain · Lower right belly pain · Pain during sex · Pelvic or lower belly pain · Pelvic pain on one side

When to get medical care

Call 911Sudden severe pelvic pain with vomiting or fainting.
Get care todayPain with fever.
See a doctor soonOngoing pelvic pain.

Causes

Ovulation.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Childbearing age

Diagnosis

Found on ultrasound.

The exam

Pelvic exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Ultrasound:

Treatment

Usually wait and watch.

Self-care

  • Use heat for aches
  • Track pain with your cycle

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Pain relievers
Pain and swellingAsk first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Surgery for large cysts.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

  • Birth control may lower new cysts

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a gynecologist (OB-GYN).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • After menopause: Cysts need closer follow-up.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually goes away.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Do I need a follow-up ultrasound?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Ovarian cyst

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.