An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac on or in an ovary. Most are functional cysts linked to ovulation that cause no symptoms and disappear within a few cycles. Cysts are diagnosed with a pelvic ultrasound. Persistent, large, painful or unusual-looking cysts may need further tests or laparoscopic removal that preserves the ovary.
- Most common type
- Functional cysts
- Diagnosis
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- Often
- Resolve in 1–3 cycles
- Surgery
- Laparoscopic cystectomy
- Surgery stay
- Usually 0–1 night
- Cost guide
- Surgery about ₩1.5M–4M
What is an ovarian cyst?
Each month the ovary grows a small fluid-filled follicle that releases an egg. Sometimes the follicle keeps growing or the tissue left behind fills with fluid, forming a functional cyst. These are very common in women who still have periods and usually go away without treatment.
Other cysts are not linked to ovulation. Most of these are also benign, but they are less likely to disappear on their own.
Types of ovarian cysts
| Type | What it is | Usual approach |
|---|---|---|
| Follicular cyst | A follicle that did not release its egg | Watch; often gone in 1–3 cycles |
| Corpus luteum cyst | Fluid or blood after ovulation | Watch; may cause pain or bleed |
| Endometrioma | "Chocolate cyst" from endometriosis | Medication or surgery depending on size, pain and fertility |
| Dermoid cyst (teratoma) | Benign cyst with tissue such as fat or hair | Often removed; does not go away on its own |
| Cystadenoma | Benign cyst from the ovary's surface cells | Removal when large or growing |
Polycystic ovaries in PCOS are different: they are many small follicles rather than true cysts. Rarely, a complex cyst can be cancerous, particularly after menopause, which is why unusual features are checked carefully.
Symptoms and warning signs
Many cysts cause no symptoms and are found on a routine pelvic ultrasound. When symptoms occur they may include:
- A dull ache or pressure on one side of the lower abdomen
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness
- Pain during sex or bowel movements
- Changes in periods
For pelvic pain with other causes, see pelvic pain.
How ovarian cysts are diagnosed and treated
- Consultation in English Symptoms, cycle, age and pregnancy plans are reviewed. A pregnancy test is done if relevant.
- Same-day transvaginal ultrasound Measures the cyst and checks whether it is simple (thin wall, clear fluid) or complex.
- Watchful waiting Simple cysts in women who still have periods are usually rechecked after 6–12 weeks, ideally just after a period.
- Further tests if needed Blood tests such as CA-125, or MRI, are used selectively when the cyst looks unusual or after menopause.
- Treatment Pain relief for symptoms; hormonal medication for endometriomas; surgery for cysts that persist, grow, cause symptoms or look unusual.
Birth control pills can reduce new functional cysts but do not shrink existing ones.
A persistent cyst enlarges the ovary and can cause pain or pressure.
After laparoscopic cystectomy the cyst is removed and healthy ovarian tissue is preserved.
Laparoscopic cyst removal
When surgery is needed, a laparoscopic cystectomy removes the cyst through small keyhole incisions while preserving healthy ovarian tissue. At Yoonho Women's Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul, operations are performed by our gynecologic surgeons, including Dr. Jung-Ho Seo, who specializes in laparoscopic surgery. See cystectomy and laparoscopy.
- Day 0 Surgery under general anesthesia, usually about 1 hour. Many go home the same or next day.
- Days 1–7 Shoulder-tip and abdominal discomfort are common and settle; walk gently.
- 1–2 weeks Return to desk work for most women.
- Follow-up Pathology results, usually within about a week, are explained in English.
Risks include bleeding, infection, injury to nearby organs (uncommon) and, with repeated surgery, reduced ovarian reserve — which is discussed with women hoping to conceive.
Cost and insurance
A consultation with ultrasound is the first step. As a general guide, laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy at Yoonho costs about ₩1.5M–4M, depending on the cyst and hospital stay; a written estimate is given after consultation. Residents with Korean National Health Insurance are usually covered for medically necessary surgery — see health insurance for foreigners. Travelers can request English documents for insurance claims.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Will my ovarian cyst go away on its own?
Most functional cysts disappear within one to three menstrual cycles. A follow-up ultrasound after 6–12 weeks confirms whether it has resolved.
Are ovarian cysts cancerous?
The vast majority are benign, especially in women who still have periods. Cysts with complex features, or those found after menopause, are evaluated more carefully.
Can an ovarian cyst affect fertility?
Functional cysts usually do not. Endometriomas and repeated ovarian surgery can affect ovarian reserve, so fertility plans are part of the treatment discussion.
Can I fly with an ovarian cyst?
Usually yes, if the cyst is small and you have no severe pain. If you have had sudden severe pain, get checked before flying. After laparoscopy, most people can fly after about a week if recovery is smooth.
Can I get an ultrasound for a cyst on the same day?
Yes. At Yoonho, a transvaginal ultrasound can usually be done during your first visit, with results explained in English straight away.
OB-GYN Specialist · Director of OB-GYN
M.D., Ewha Womans University College of Medicine · Former Clinical Instructor, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital · Member, Korean Society of Menopause
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
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