6733 8810 
Ovarian Cysts
Dr Christopher Ng
Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
MBBS (Imperial College, UK), MMed (O&G) (S’pore), FRANZCOG (Aust-NZ), FAMS (O&G) (S’pore)
What are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs arising from the ovaries which can vary in size. Physiological or functional cysts are formed as part of the normal menstrual cycle and occur as a result of ovulation. A woman may have ovarian cysts at some point in her life. Most of these cysts present little to no discomfort (asymptomatic) and some may resolve spontaneously.
Pathological cysts are cysts which are not related to the menstrual cycle. In some cases, these cysts may cause problems such as abdominal distension and pelvic pain. For example, when a cyst becomes too large or ruptures or twists (torsion), it can cause sudden severe pain in the lower abdomen.
Most ovarian cysts are benign but some may become cancerous over time. These cancerous cysts will have to be diagnosed and treated promptly.
What are the Types of Ovarian Cysts?
Follicle Cysts
In a regular menstrual cycle, a small cyst in your ovary called a follicle releases a mature egg every month. However, sometimes, the follicle does not (ovulate) release the egg. As a result, the follicle is filled with fluid and continues to grow, forming a cyst.
Corpus Luteum Cysts
When the follicle releases an egg, it shrinks into a mass of cells called the corpus luteum. Corpus luteum cysts are formed when the follicle sac does not shrink and reseals itself, causing fluid build-up.
Endometriotic Cysts
Endometriotic cysts are common among women with endometriosis and these cysts are filled with menstrual blood. Endometrial tissue is the uterine lining; and endometriosis occurs when this lining grows outside the uterus.
Cystadenomas
Cystadenomas are usually benign tumours that form on the outer surface of the ovary. They are filled with a watery (serous) or mucous-like fluid (mucinous). Cystadenomas can cause abdominal discomfort or bloating.
Malignant Cysts
These ovarian cysts are cancerous in nature. They tend to occur in menopausal women but it is not usual to find these in younger women too.
Dermoid Cysts
Dermoid cysts, also known as teratomas, usually occur in younger women. Dermoid cysts are formed in the ovary and consist of various types of tissue, such as skin, hair, and teeth.
What Causes Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts can be caused by several factors, such as hormonal imbalance, pregnancy, endometriosis, or severe pelvic infections. Functional cysts, like follicular and corpus luteum cysts, are part of the normal menstrual cycle and occur as a result of ovulation. Follicular cysts are caused by medications that stimulate ovulation. Corpus luteum cysts may develop during pregnancy and support the pregnancy until the placenta forms. In some cases, cysts can develop due to infections that spread to the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
What are the Signs & Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts?
- Abdominal distension
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Discomfort with bowel movements
- Back pain
- Abnormal menses
What are the Treatments for Ovarian Cysts?
Treatment of ovarian cysts varies according to a woman’s age, the size of the cyst and the appearance of the cyst on ultrasound. If the cyst is not causing any pain, simple observation with serial ultrasound scans and blood tests for monitoring is sufficient. However, if a patient experiences severe pain because of the cyst, it needs to be surgically removed by your gynaecologist. The malignant (cancerous) potential of the cyst can then be determined after removal to see if further adjuvant therapy is necessary.
Depending on the size and type of your cyst, as well as your symptoms, age, and general health, your gynaecologist may recommend the following treatment options:
Medication
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help to alleviate pain caused by ovarian cysts. Hormonal birth control pills can also help reduce the risk of ovarian cysts by preventing ovulation. However, they cannot remove existing pathological cysts.
Surgery
If the cyst is large, growing, or is causing pain, your doctor may recommend the removal of the ovarian cyst through surgery. These procedures include:
- Laparoscopy (Keyhole Surgery)Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where small incisions are made and specialised surgical instruments are used to carry out the operation through those incisions.
- Laparotomy (Open Surgery)In some cases, a laparotomy may be required. Larger incisions are made in this procedure to grant the surgeon better access to the cyst and its surrounding areas.
- CystectomyCystectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the cyst without removing the ovary.
- OophorectomyOophorectomy is a surgical procedure which involves the removal of the ovary along with the cyst.
FAQs on Ovarian Cysts
Women have a higher risk of developing ovarian cysts if they:
- Have hormonal problems and are taking medications that help them ovulate
- Have endometriosis and severe pelvic infections
- Are pregnant
- Have had a previous ovarian cyst
Most cysts can resolve on their own without any treatment. However, some cysts can twist or rupture, which can cause significant pain and other complications. Leaving an ovarian cyst untreated may also interfere with one’s fertility, potentially pose risks during pregnancy, or may grow larger and cause discomfort. Hence, if you notice signs and symptoms of cysts, it is recommended to get it evaluated by a gynaecologist as soon as possible.
Many ovarian cysts can actually resolve on their own. However, surgery to remove an ovarian cyst may be required if the cyst is large, causing pain, or is potentially cancerous. Your gynaecologist will be in the best position to assess and manage your situation.
Gynaecological Services We Provide
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Dr Christopher Ng
Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist in Singapore
Qualifications & Credentials
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (Imperial College, UK)
- Master of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Singapore)
- Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
- Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Dr Christopher Ng is a dedicated obstetrician and gynaecologist with over two decades of experience. Having been educated and trained in Singapore, the UK and the US, Dr Ng brings with him a wealth of experience and medical knowledge that puts his patient’s wellbeing to the fore.
Dr Ng also complements his practice with aesthetics and has obtained Certificates of Competence in all aesthetic procedures recognised by the Singapore Medical Council Aesthetic Practice Oversight Committee.
With over 30 years of dedicated service in the field of women’s health and rejuvenation, Dr Ng remains steadfast in his commitment to provide compassionate, personalised and effective care to all his patients.
Dr Christopher Ng is a dedicated obstetrician and gynaecologist with over two decades of experience. Having been educated and trained in Singapore, the UK and the US, Dr Ng brings with him a wealth of experience and medical knowledge that puts his patient’s wellbeing to the fore.
Dr Ng also complements his practice with aesthetics and has obtained Certificates of Competence in all aesthetic procedures recognised by the Singapore Medical Council Aesthetic Practice Oversight Committee.
With over 30 years of dedicated service in the field of women’s health and rejuvenation, Dr Ng remains steadfast in his commitment to provide compassionate, personalised and effective care to all his patients.
1 Orchard Boulevard, #04-03A Camden Medical Centre, Singapore 248649
Phone:+65 6733 8810
Fax:+65 6733 8850
After Office:+65 6535 8833
Email:gynaemd@singnet.com.sg
Mon - Friday:0900h to 1730h
Saturday:0900h to 1300h
Lunch Break:1300h to 1400h
Closed on Public Holiday and Sunday