Are Ovarian Cysts Dangerous if They Keep Returning?

Ovarian cysts are small sacs filled with fluid that form on your ovaries. They’re extremely common, and about 10% of women get them during their reproductive years.

Most of the time, ovarian cysts are harmless and go away on their own. But if you keep getting cysts, it’s normal to wonder if your health is at risk.

Our team at The Women's Center is here to help you find answers. We specialize in diagnosing and treating ovarian cysts. Most ovarian cysts, even if they recur, are benign — but it’s important to seek the care you need to protect your health.

Understanding the types of ovarian cysts

To evaluate your risk of ovarian cyst complications, it's important to differentiate between the two main types: functional cysts and complex cysts.

Functional cysts are the most common, and they typically occur during your normal menstrual cycle. 

These cysts might form due to hormonal imbalances or variations in your menstrual cycle. They usually resolve within a few menstrual cycles and rarely cause any complications. In fact, you may have cysts without knowing it because they don’t usually have symptoms.

Complex cysts, on the other hand, are less common and may require closer monitoring. 

Complex cysts can contain solid components, blood, or have irregular shapes — and they can be associated with conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). 

Recurring complex cysts could lead to complications like ovarian torsion (twisting), rupturing, or even the development of ovarian tumors.

That means if you have recurring cysts, it’s important to go to the doctor. We can diagnose the type of cysts you have and recommend appropriate treatment to manage your health.

What to do about recurring ovarian cysts

It’s not always easy to know if you have cysts, but a few symptoms may develop. Pelvic pain, bloating, changes in menstrual patterns, or discomfort during intercourse could all indicate cysts or another underlying gynecologic condition that should be evaluated.

If you have ovarian cysts — especially if they cause noticeable symptoms — you should seek medical care to determine the underlying cause. Our team conducts a thorough health evaluation, which can include a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or blood tests to assess your hormones.

We look at the size and characteristics of your cysts, along with your symptoms and medical history, to determine our diagnosis and recommend the best treatment for you.

In some cases, we may prescribe hormonal birth control to regulate your menstrual cycle and help prevent functional cysts from forming. In more severe cases, we may recommend surgery if the cysts are large, causing persistent symptoms, or are potentially malignant.

It’s worth noting that the risks associated with recurring ovarian cysts are relatively low overall. Almost all ovarian cysts are benign and resolve without causing harm. However, regular check-ups are essential to ensure we identify any changes or complications as early as possible.

To find out more about ovarian cysts, schedule an appointment with our team at The Women's Center. Call one of our locations around Orlando, Florida, or book your first visit online today.