Discovering you have an ovarian cyst can be a source of anxiety, even though these fluid-filled sacs are extremely common. For many women, cysts are painless and go unnoticed, discovered only during a routine exam. However, for others, they can cause pelvic pain, bloating, and a sense of heaviness that interferes with daily comfort. The uncertainty of whether a cyst will grow, rupture, or resolve on its own can be stressful.

Treatment is essential to manage symptoms and, in some cases, prevent the formation of future cysts. While most cysts are “functional”, meaning they are part of the normal menstrual cycle and often disappear on their own, others may require intervention to prevent complications like torsion (twisting of the ovary) or rupture. Because cysts vary widely in type and size, treatment plans are highly individualized. Doctors consider a woman’s age, symptoms, and reproductive goals before recommending a course of action (Office on Women’s Health, 2021).

Overview of treatment options for Ovarian Cysts

The approach to treating ovarian cysts often begins with “watchful waiting.” Since many functional cysts resolve spontaneously within a few menstrual cycles, doctors frequently monitor the cyst via ultrasound rather than intervening immediately. When medical treatment is required, the primary goals are pain management and the prevention of new cysts.

Medications are typically used to control symptoms and regulate hormones. It is important to clarify that while medication can prevent new cysts from forming, it generally does not speed up the disappearance of existing cysts. Surgical procedures are usually reserved for cysts that are large, look suspicious on imaging, or cause severe, persistent pain that does not respond to medication.

Medications used for Ovarian Cysts

Hormonal contraceptives are the cornerstone of preventative therapy for recurrent functional cysts. Doctors frequently prescribe combined oral contraceptives (birth control pills), as well as patches or vaginal rings. These medications regulate the menstrual cycle and are the most effective non-surgical method for preventing the development of new cysts. Clinical experience suggests that women who use hormonal birth control have a significantly lower risk of developing functional ovarian cysts compared to those who do not.

For symptom relief, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the standard first-line treatment. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or naproxen are commonly used to alleviate the pelvic discomfort and cramping associated with cysts.

In rare cases where cysts are related to a more complex condition like endometriosis, doctors may prescribe gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. These drugs induce a temporary menopause-like state to stop the ovaries from functioning for a short period, though they are not typically used for simple functional cysts. Patients can expect rapid pain relief from NSAIDs, while the preventative benefits of hormonal therapy become established over the course of a few menstrual cycles (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

How these medications work

Hormonal contraceptives work by suppressing ovulation. Functional cysts, such as follicular cysts and corpus luteum cysts, form during the normal process of releasing an egg. By introducing steady levels of estrogen and progestin, these medications stop the ovaries from producing eggs. If ovulation does not occur, the functional cysts associated with it cannot form.

NSAIDs work by inhibiting the body’s production of prostaglandins. These are chemical messengers that promote inflammation, pain, and uterine contractions. By blocking these chemicals, NSAIDs reduce the sensitivity of pelvic nerves and decrease the dull ache or sharp pains often caused by the cyst pressing on surrounding tissues (National Institutes of Health, 2022).

Side effects and safety considerations

Hormonal birth control is generally safe but may cause side effects like nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, and spotting. It carries a small, increased risk of blood clots, especially in smokers or women over 35, for which doctors screen carefully.

NSAIDs can irritate the stomach, causing heartburn or ulcers if taken often or on an empty stomach. Long-term use requires monitoring of kidney function. Severe, sudden abdominal pain with fever or vomiting needs immediate emergency care, as it may signal a ruptured or twisted cyst requiring urgent surgery.

Since everyone’s experience with the condition and its treatments can vary, working closely with a qualified healthcare provider helps ensure safe and effective care.

References

1. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org
2. Office on Women’s Health. https://www.womenshealth.gov
3. National Institutes of Health. https://www.nih.gov
4. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org