Ovarian Cysts

What can be done to prevent the condition?

In general, ovarian cysts cannot be prevented.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Functional cysts usually resolve without treatment. Some cysts may cause infertility, menstrual problems, and chronic pelvic pain. Cysts may become twisted, which can cut off their blood supply. This is considered an emergency, and surgery may be necessary to prevent gangrene of that ovary.

A few cysts may turn out to be cancerous. For this reason, all cysts must be evaluated carefully. The risk of ovarian cancer is very small. It can be treated more successfully if it is found early in the course of the disease. Ovarian cancer is not common in women before menopause. Women who have an ovarian cyst between the ages of 50 to 70 are at a higher risk of having ovarian cancer.

What are the risks to others?

Ovarian cysts are not contagious, and pose no risk to others.